Welcome to the ultimate indulgence—Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies. This decadent dessert layers rich, fudgy brownies with a cherry-chocolate filling and a velvety chocolate topping. The combination of sweet cherries and smooth milk chocolate will make your taste buds sing! Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, these brownies are bound to impress.
Table of Contents
The Best Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies
What makes this recipe stand out is the perfect marriage of flavors. The base is your classic brownie, but the magic happens when you add the cherry-chocolate layer and top it all off with a glossy chocolate finish. Each bite is a burst of chocolatey goodness, complemented by the subtle tartness of the cherries.
Notes on Ingredients
- Brownie Mix: Choose your favorite brownie mix for a 9×13 pan. This forms the base of the dessert.
- Maraschino Cherries: These sweet cherries and their juice add that signature cherry flavor to the filling.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: These help to balance the sweetness of the cherries and make the filling extra creamy.
- Butter: Softened butter makes the cherry-chocolate layer rich and smooth.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the cherry layer, creating the perfect creamy texture.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies
- Brownie Layer:
Start by preparing the brownie mix according to the package instructions. This typically requires eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13 pan and bake as directed. Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the next layer. - Cherry-Chocolate Layer:
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter with 5 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fully combined. Roughly chop the cherries and fold them in, along with the milk chocolate chips. Spread this luscious cherry-chocolate mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. - Chocolate Layer:
Melt the milk chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Pour this melted chocolate over the cherry-chocolate layer, spreading it evenly. Place the brownies in the fridge to set until the chocolate hardens.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies
Serve these brownies cold for a crisp chocolate topping, or at room temperature for a softer, fudgy bite. Cut them into squares or large chunks depending on how decadent you want each serving to be. They’re perfect as a standalone dessert, or you can take them to the next level by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
How to Store Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies
Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These brownies can also be frozen for longer storage—simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.
Nutrition information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 774.45 kcal | 39% |
| Total Fat | 44.37 g | 63% |
| Carbs | 94.93 g | 37% |
| Sugars | 62.27 g | 69% |
| Protein | 5.35 g | 11% |
| Sodium | 155.29 mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 1.38 g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 25 g | 125% |
| Trans Fat | 0 g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 12.61 g | – |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 92.87 mg | 31% |
| Calcium | 94.26 mg | 12% |
| Magnesium | 41.73 mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 247.12 mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 13% |
| Zinc | 1.26 mg | 13% |
| Phosphorus | 130.47 mg | 19% |
| Vitamin A | 274.63 mcg | 34% |
| Vitamin C | 0.11 mg | 0% |
| Thiamin B1 | 0.11 mg | 10% |
| Riboflavin B2 | 0.22 mg | 15% |
| Niacin B3 | 0.88 mg | 5% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.05 mg | 3% |
| Folic Acid B9 | 27.05 mcg | 14% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.39 mcg | 16% |
| Vitamin D | 0.08 mcg | 2% |
| Vitamin E | 1 mg | 8% |
| Vitamin K | 4.61 mcg | 6% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
FAQs About Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, but maraschino cherries give the best flavor and texture for this recipe. If using fresh cherries, consider adding a little extra sugar to the filling.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These brownies actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store them in the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving.
What if I don’t have a microwave?
You can melt the chocolate chips and butter using a double boiler on the stove, stirring constantly to avoid burning the chocolate.
The Best Chocolate Cherry Chunk Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie layer:
- 1 brownie mix the 9×13 size
- Eggs oil, and water called for on the back of the box
Cherry-Chocolate layer:
- 2 sticks of butter slightly softened
- 3 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
- 6 oz maraschino cherries + juice from jar
Chocolate layer:
- 2 and 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup butter
Instructions
- Brownie layer: Prepare brownies and bake as directed on the box. Let cool.
- Cherry-Chocolate layer: In the bowl of a mixer, combine butter and 5 tablespoons juice from the maraschino cherries. Beat until the butter is smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and beat until combined. Increase mixer speed to medium high and beat for about a minute and a half. Roughly chop cherries. Fold chocolate chips into the filling with the cherries. Spread over the top of cooled brownies.
- Chocolate layer: Melt chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir, and repeat for 30 more seconds. Continue to do this until chocolate is smooth and melted. Spread over cherry-chocolate layer. Let set up until hardened, in fridge.