Description
These Simple Black Forest Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownie base mixed with juicy cherries and chunks of semi-sweet chocolate, topped with a luscious cherry sauce and whipped cream for a decadent twist on a classic dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 (18-ounce) box fudge brownie mix
- Ingredients required on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 cup cherries, halved (fresh or frozen)
- 3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, roughly chopped
Cherry Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 ounce semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix package. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Make Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie batter following the box directions. Gently fold in the halved cherries and roughly chopped semi-sweet chocolate pieces to add fruity and chocolatey chunks in every bite.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as instructed on the box. Once baked, remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before proceeding to the next steps.
- Prepare Cherry Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 1/2 cups of cherries, granulated sugar, and almond extract if using. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently and breaking up some cherries with a spoon to create a chunky sauce.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the water and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the cherry sauce and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Assemble Brownies: Spoon about three-quarters of the cooled cherry sauce evenly over the cooled brownie base. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cherry layer. Finally, drizzle the remaining cherry sauce on top and sprinkle with finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate for garnish and extra chocolate flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries when in season for the best flavor, or frozen cherries that have been thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Almond extract is optional but adds a lovely depth to the cherry sauce enhancing the Black Forest taste.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the cherry sauce and whipped topping to prevent melting and sogginess.
- For a richer texture, use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
