Black Forest Brownies

Black Forest Brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with juicy cherries and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for any occasion, these fudgy brownies are easy to make and sure to please everyone. Their unique flavor profile makes them stand out, offering a deliciously sweet and slightly tart experience that is simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and fresh cherries creates a rich and satisfying dessert.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack; they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.
• Fudgy Texture: These brownies boast a moist and fudgy interior that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or different types of chocolate for a personal twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the essential tools to make your Black Forest Brownies effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch square baking tin
• Mixing bowls
• Handheld mixer (or stand mixer)
• Heatproof bowl
• Spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Tin: A good quality tin ensures even baking, giving you the perfect brownie texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep ingredients organized and allows for effective mixing.
• Handheld Mixer: A handheld mixer makes it easier to achieve the light and fluffy consistency needed for the batter.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups fresh cherries (or frozen) ((310g / 11oz with pits OR 270g / 9.5oz pitted))
– 1 tablespoon white sugar ((notes))
– 100 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids) ((3.5oz))
– 113 g unsalted butter ((1 stick / ½ cup))
– 3 large eggs, room temp
– 1 cup white granulated sugar ((200g / 7oz))
– ¼ cup dark brown sugar, packed ((50g / 1.8oz))
– 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 130 g plain flour (all-purpose flour) ((1 cup / 5.6oz))
– 25 g cocoa powder ((0.9oz / ¼ cup))
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup whipping cream (heavy whipping cream) ((250ml))
– 100 g milk chocolate, shaved ((3.5oz) (notes))

How to Make Black Forest Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 180C / 350F / 160C fan forced. Grease and line an 8×8 inch square baking tin with baking paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherries

Pit the cherries and chop them into quarters. Set aside half a cup for topping. In a bowl, mix the remaining cherries with one tablespoon of white sugar and set aside to macerate for about ten minutes.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, combine the butter and dark chocolate. Microwave in intervals of thirty seconds, stirring between each interval until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix Eggs and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, white granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar using a handheld mixer for about two minutes until light and fluffy (or three to five minutes if using a stand mixer).

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter-chocolate mixture along with vanilla extract into the egg mixture. Stir well with a spatula until combined.

Step 6: Sift Dry Ingredients

Sift in plain flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently stir with a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Cherries

Using a fork, lightly mash the macerated cherries before folding them into the brownie batter until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared tin. Bake for approximately forty to forty-five minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with some sticky crumbs attached.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow brownies to cool completely in the tin before proceeding. You can speed this up by chilling them in the fridge.

Step 10: Prepare Whipped Cream Topping

Whip the cream in a bowl until soft peaks form. Spread it over the top of cooled brownies.

Step 11: Add Final Touches

Dot with remaining cherries and scatter shaved milk chocolate on top before serving.

After trying this recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment & rating! Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

How to Serve Black Forest Brownies

Black Forest Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon dessert, these brownies can be tailored to suit any occasion.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the brownies warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for a rich, creamy contrast.

Cherry Topping

• Garnish with fresh cherries for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color that enhances the presentation.

Ice Cream Delight

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream to add a delightful chill and creamy texture.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or espresso. The deep flavors of the brownie complement the bitterness of the coffee perfectly.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange cut brownies on a platter with assorted fruits and nuts for an elegant dessert spread at parties.

How to Perfect Black Forest Brownies

Perfecting your Black Forest Brownies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature eggs: This ensures better mixing and helps achieve that light and fluffy texture you want in the brownies.
• Macerate cherries properly: Allowing the cherries to sit with sugar for at least 10 minutes enhances their sweetness and makes them juicier in the final product.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in dry ingredients will keep the brownies fudgy and prevent them from becoming tough.
• Check for doneness accurately: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs—not wet batter—for perfect texture.
• Cool completely before serving: Letting them cool allows the flavors to meld together and makes cutting easier without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Black Forest Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Black Forest Brownies can create a harmonious dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits complements the rich chocolate flavor and adds refreshing brightness.
2. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each brownie slice for an indulgent experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
3. Nutty Granola: Serve with a sprinkle of granola on top for added crunch and texture, enhancing each bite.
4. Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, coconut whipped cream provides richness without overwhelming sweetness.
5. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate and cherries.
6. Chilled Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Offer cold milk as a classic pairing; almond or oat milk works well for those preferring non-dairy options.
7. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These add elegance to your dessert table while echoing the brownie’s core flavors beautifully.
8. Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create mini ice cream sandwiches using brownie squares between scoops of ice cream for fun finger food at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Forest Brownies, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cherry maceration: Not allowing the cherries to sit with sugar will result in less flavor. Always let them macerate for at least 10 minutes.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a fudgier texture.
• Not checking doneness properly: Using a toothpick that comes out clean may indicate overbaking. Aim for sticky crumbs on the toothpick for perfect brownies.
• Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can affect the mixing process and final texture. Always use room temperature eggs for best results.
• Neglecting to cool completely: Cutting into warm brownies can ruin their structure. Let them cool fully before slicing for clean edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Black Forest Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Black Forest Brownies

• Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Black Forest Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place brownies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a single brownie on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place brownies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Black Forest Brownies:

Can I use frozen cherries for Black Forest Brownies?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using.

How do I ensure my Black Forest Brownies are fudgy?

To achieve fudgy brownies, avoid overmixing and check for doneness with sticky crumbs on your toothpick.

What can I substitute for whipping cream?

You can substitute whipping cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative if desired.

How should I serve my Black Forest Brownies?

Serve them chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and extra cherries for decoration.

Can I add nuts to my Black Forest Brownies?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds can provide a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

Final Thoughts

Black Forest Brownies are an indulgent treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with juicy cherries. Their versatility allows you to customize the recipe with different toppings or flavorings. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these brownies are sure to impress!