Name: Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box fudge brownie mix (18.2 ounces); 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 eggs; ½ cup cherry cola soda; ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries (plus more for garnish); 1/3 cup butter (softened); 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 2/3 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup cherry cola soda

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 68 reviews

If you’re looking to wow your friends with an irresistibly unique twist on dessert, this Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe is the perfect blend of nostalgic soda flavor and rich chocolatey goodness. Imagine fudgy brownies infused with the bright, fruity pop of cherry cola, then topped with a creamy, fizzy frosting that’s as playful as it is delicious. Every bite bursts with sweetness and a hint of bubbly charm that makes these brownies truly unforgettable. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple treat, these brownies are a sure-fire way to bring smiles and happy taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver metal mixing bowl holds thick, dark brown chocolate batter, with a bunch of bright red cherry halves placed on top. A white spoon with small blue and pink speckles is partially dipped in the batter, resting inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with some batter clinging to the inside sides. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that classic cherry cola sparkle. From the fudgy brownie mix to the fizzy soda, every component is essential to building this delectable dessert.

Fudge brownie mix (18.2 ounces): The base for moist, chocolatey brownies that stay soft and rich.
Vegetable oil (3 tablespoons): Keeps the brownies tender and adds the right amount of moisture.
Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together while providing structure.
Cherry cola soda (½ cup + ¼ cup): Adds a playful fizz and a sweet cherry flavor that makes these brownies unique.
Chopped maraschino cherries (½ cup, plus extra for garnish): Bursts of bright cherry goodness that pair perfectly with the cola twist.
Butter (1/3 cup, softened): Gives the frosting its creamy, luscious finish.
Unsweetened cocoa (2 tablespoons): Deepens the chocolate flavor in the frosting with a gentle bitterness.
Powdered sugar (2 2/3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that smooth, decadent topping.

How to Make Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your brownies will bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy. Next, prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray, then lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Trust me, this step makes cleanup and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together your brownie mix, vegetable oil, eggs, half a cup of cherry cola soda, and the chopped maraschino cherries. This combination is where the magic happens—the soda introduces a subtle fizz and cherry notes that elevate the classic brownie flavor beautifully. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine everything without overmixing.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. The key test is sticking a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential before frosting so your topping won’t melt.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Cola Frosting

While the brownies cool, mix up the frosting by combining softened butter, unsweetened cocoa, and powdered sugar in a medium bowl using an electric mixer. Beat until smooth and thick, then gradually add ¼ cup of cherry cola soda, blending well. This frosting achieves a luscious texture and carries forward the cherry cola theme that makes this recipe truly special.

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

Once your brownies have completely cooled, spread the cherry cola frosting evenly on top. Don’t be shy with the frosting—it’s part of what makes this treat shine! Finally, garnish with a handful of extra maraschino cherries for a festive pop of color and an extra burst of cherry flavor.

How to Serve Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe

Two square cake pieces are stacked on a small white plate. Each piece has a dark brown chocolate base with red cherries inside. On top of the upper piece is a smooth, light brown frosting layer, with a swirl of white whipped cream and a bright red cherry placed in the center. The plates are on a white marbled surface with a red and beige checkered cloth to the side. In the background, there is a clear glass cup filled with milk and a white bowl filled with more red cherries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Extra maraschino cherries on top don’t just add a splash of color; they provide delightful bursts of juiciness in contrast to the rich brownie. For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling some chocolate shavings or even a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess balances the soda’s zing and chocolate richness perfectly, creating a harmonious dessert experience. A fresh fruit salad also adds a refreshing touch if you want to lighten things up.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe in charming individual squares on a rustic wooden board or stack them into a tempting brownie tower. You can drizzle extra cola syrup or a thin chocolate glaze over the top for a professional finishing touch that will impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover brownies store wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Just make sure the frosting is fully set so it doesn’t get messy. This makes them a fantastic treat to prep ahead for gatherings or just to enjoy over a few days.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted brownies for up to three months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Once thawed, you can prepare the cherry cola frosting fresh, so it stays light and fluffy. This method keeps the brownies tasting fresh and delicious whenever you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

If you like your brownies slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid reheating frosted brownies too long, or the frosting may melt. A quick warm-up enhances the fudgy texture without sacrificing their charm.

FAQs

Can I use other sodas instead of cherry cola?

Absolutely! While cherry cola offers a unique blend of cherry and cola flavors that complement chocolate perfectly, you can experiment with other flavored sodas like root beer or cream soda for a different twist.

Do I have to use a boxed brownie mix?

Using a boxed mix keeps this recipe quick and foolproof, but feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe. Just remember to incorporate the cherry cola and cherries to maintain that signature flavor profile.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the brownie mix with a gluten-free variety and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The cherry cola and cherries are naturally gluten-free, so the core flavors remain intact.

What’s the best way to chop maraschino cherries?

Simply drain the cherries well, then use a sharp knife to chop them into small pieces. This helps distribute their flavor evenly through the brownies without releasing too much liquid into the batter.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

You can try substituting the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly, but the cherry cola frosting will still add a fun twist to your brownies.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe is a fun and delicious way to add excitement to your baking routine. The blend of fizzy cherry cola and rich chocolate creates a unique dessert experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy sharing this special treat with friends and family—you’ll be glad you did!

Cherry Cola Brownies Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need