Ingredients

Chocolate pastry

200 grams (1.6 cups) flour
180 grams (3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon) butter
150 grams (5.3 ounces) bitter chocolate
4 large eggs
100 grams (1/2 cup) sugar
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
We recommend:
For all-purpose flour:
Prime Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4)
4.8
(9,312) Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4) $23.96 View details Prime Antimo Caputo Chefs Flour - Italian Double Zero 00 - Soft Wheat for Pizza Dough, Bread, & Pasta, 2.2 Lb (Pack of 2)
4.7
(15,802) Antimo Caputo Chefs Flour - Italian Double Zero 00 - Soft Wheat for Pizza Dough, Bread, & Pasta, 2.2 Lb (Pack of 2) $16.99 View details Prime best seller King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Kosher, 3 Pounds, Packaging May Vary
4.7
(20,691) King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Kosher, 3 Pounds, Packaging May Vary $8.62 View details
For unsalted butter:
Prime Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail
4.5
(38) Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail $83.62 View details Prime best seller 4th & Heart Original Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto, Pasture Raised, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces)
4.6
(17,685) 4th & Heart Original Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto, Pasture Raised, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces) $11.49 View details Prime 4th & Heart Himalayan Pink Salt Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto Pasture Raised, Non-GMO, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces)
4.6
(10,062) 4th & Heart Himalayan Pink Salt Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto Pasture Raised, Non-GMO, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces) $9.49 View details
For bitter chocolate bar:
Prime Beatrice Bakery Co. Original Fruitcake in Holiday Tin, Grandma's Old Fashioned Fruit and Nut Freshly Made
4.2
(1,504) Beatrice Bakery Co. Original Fruitcake in Holiday Tin, Grandma's Old Fashioned Fruit and Nut Freshly Made $85.99 View details Prime Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Dark Chocolate & Cocoa Powder, 3 Pound Can (Pack of 1) with Ghirardelli Stamped Barista Spoon
4.7
(1,844) Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Dark Chocolate & Cocoa Powder, 3 Pound Can (Pack of 1) with Ghirardelli Stamped Barista Spoon $39.99 View details
For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
4.8
(12,536) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1 $5.27 View details Prime Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack)
4.8
(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
4.6
(205) C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags $56.99 $49.98 View details
For baking powder:
Prime Clabber Girl Double Acting Baking Powder, 8.1 Ounce
4.8
(10,144) Clabber Girl Double Acting Baking Powder, 8.1 Ounce $2.63 View details Prime 365 by Whole Foods Market, Baking Soda, 16 Ounce
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(8,361) 365 by Whole Foods Market, Baking Powder Aluminum Free, 10 Ounce $3.29 View details

Cottage cheese interlayer

360 grams (1.5 cups) cottage cheese
100 grams (1/2 cup) sugar
2 large eggs
10 grams (2 teaspoons) vanilla sugar
380 grams (13.4 ounces) defrosted cherries
We recommend:
For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
4.8
(12,536) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1 $5.27 View details Prime Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack)
4.8
(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
4.6
(205) C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags $56.99 $49.98 View details
For cottage cheese:
LorAnn Cream Cheese Icing SS Flavor, 4 ounce bottle
4.5
(70) LorAnn Cream Cheese Icing SS Flavor, 4 ounce bottle $18.75 View details Prime LorAnn Cream Cheese Icing SS Flavor, 1 ounce bottle
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(2,760) Moon Cheese - 100% Natural Cheese Snack - Gouda - 2 oz $3.99 View details
For vanilla sugar:
Prime McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract (Made with Madagascar Vanilla Beans), 16 fl oz
4.8
(21,142) McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract (Made with Madagascar Vanilla Beans), 16 fl oz $21.96 View details Prime Nielsen-Massey Pure Vanilla Bean Paste for Baking and Cooking, 4 Ounce Jar
4.8
(10,226) Nielsen-Massey Pure Vanilla Bean Paste for Baking and Cooking, 4 Ounce Jar $18.92 View details
For frozen cherries:
Prime Luxardo The Original Maraschino Cherries | Gourmet Italian Maraschino Cherries | Ideal for Cocktails and Desserts, 400g Jar
4.8
(9,641) Luxardo The Original Maraschino Cherries | Gourmet Italian Maraschino Cherries | Ideal for Cocktails and Desserts, 400g Jar $24.24 View details Prime Amifruit Maraschino Cherries 6.6lbs./105.6oz. Premium Cocktail Cherries, Gourmet Cocktail Cherries, Italian Maraschino Cherries.
4.8
(9) Amifruit Maraschino Cherries 6.6lbs./105.6oz. Premium Cocktail Cherries, Gourmet Cocktail Cherries, Italian Maraschino Cherries. $79.99 View details Prime Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries | Award Winning | Deep Burgundy-Red | Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup | Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor | Gourmet | American Grown & Made | 10.5 Ounce
4.5
(11,881) Peninsula Premium Cocktail Cherries | Award Winning | Deep Burgundy-Red | Silky Smooth, Rich Syrup | Luxe Fruit Forward, Sweet-Tart Flavor | Gourmet | American Grown & Made | 10.5 Ounce $14.99 View details

Instructions

Step 1

1. Melt the dark chocolate and butter together and let the mixture cool. Using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts can help melt the chocolate and butter more evenly.

Step 2

2. In a separate bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures even distribution of the baking powder.

Step 3

3. Beat the eggs with the sugar until light and fluffy. For the best results, use a hand mixer or stand mixer at high speed for several minutes.

Step 4

4. Pour in the cooled chocolate and butter mixture while continuing to beat until combined. Then, gradually add the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Adding the flour gradually helps prevent clumps.

Step 5

5. For the cottage cheese interlayer, place the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar in a blender bowl, and blend until smooth. If you don't have a blender, you can also use a food processor.

Step 6

6. In a mold greased with butter, lay out a layer of chocolate dough, followed by a layer of cottage cheese mixture and then cherries. Repeat the sequence, and finish with another layer of chocolate dough. Use a spatula to spread each layer evenly.

Step 7

7. Bake the brownies at 356°F (180°C) for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Step 8

8. Let the dessert cool completely, remove it from the mold, and cut into squares. Cooling fully helps the layers set properly, making it easier to cut.

Servings

Let's talk serving ideas that will elevate this little slice of heaven to something truly spectacular. Firstly, serve the pastry warm with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly over the warm pastry, creating a combination that's to die for. Secondly, you could add a dollop of whipped cream on top and scatter a few fresh cherries for an extra touch of luxury. For a more elegant presentation, dust the pastry squares lightly with powdered sugar right before serving—it's like adding a bit of snow to a mountain of chocolatey goodness. Want to get really creative? Drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top and watch your guests' eyes light up with joy.

Equipment

Mixing Bowls

You'll need a few different sizes to melt, mix, and sift the ingredients. Glass or metal bowls work best for even mixing.

We recommend:
Prime Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids, 6 piece Stainless Steel Metal Nesting Storage Bowls, Non-Slip Bottoms Size 7, 3.5, 2.5, 2.0,1.5, 1QT, Great for Mixing & Serving (Khaki)
4.6
(27,811) Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids, 6 piece Stainless Steel Metal Nesting Storage Bowls, Non-Slip Bottoms Size 7, 3.5, 2.5, 2.0,1.5, 1QT, Great for Mixing & Serving (Khaki) $32.28 $37.99 View details
Electric or Hand Mixer

Giving your arm a rest, a mixer ensures your batter is smooth and airy, crucial for the perfect pastry texture.

We recommend:
Prime Cuisinart HM-90BCS Power Advantage Plus 9-Speed Handheld Mixer with Storage Case, Brushed Chrome
4.6
(17,328) Cuisinart HM-90BCS Power Advantage Plus 9-Speed Handheld Mixer with Storage Case, Brushed Chrome $62.99 $79.95 View details Prime Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Whisk, Traditional Beaters, Snap-On Storage Case, 250 Watts, White
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(60,346) Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Whisk, Traditional Beaters, Snap-On Storage Case, 250 Watts, White $21.99 View details Prime Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Snap-On Case, Beaters, Whisk, Black (62692)
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(10,789) Hamilton Beach 6-Speed Electric Hand Mixer with Snap-On Case, Beaters, Whisk, Black (62692) $19.99 $24.99 View details
Baking Tin

Choose a 16*16cm (6.30*6.30 inch) tin to ensure the pastry turns out as tall and impressive as described.

We recommend:
Prime USA Pan Bakeware Muffin Pan, 12-Well, Aluminized Steel
4.9
(4,906) USA Pan Bakeware Muffin Pan, 12-Well, Aluminized Steel $29.99 $31.99 View details
Blender

A good blender makes creating a smooth cottage cheese mixture a breeze. No lumps, just creamy perfection.

We recommend:
Prime Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender, 1100-Watts, 3 Functions -for Frozen Drinks, Smoothies, Sauces, & More, 72-oz.* Pitcher, (2) 16-oz. To-Go Cups & Spout Lids, Gray
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(109,298) Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set $39.88 $49.99 View details
Sifter

This will help you incorporate air into your flour and ensure even distribution of your baking powder.

We recommend:
Prime best seller Cuisinart Mesh Strainers, 3 Count (Pack of 1) Set, CTG-00-3MS Silver
4.8
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5
(4) Fine Mesh Sifter Sifter Shaker Extractor 150 Mesh Flour Sifter Sieve Stainless Steel Food Strainer for Home Bakery Shop Cocoa Powder 30cm $39.36 $46.38 View details

Variations

For those needing a gluten-free version, simply swap the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend. It works just as well! Now, for our vegan friends, replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flaxseed "egg" (mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water) in place of each egg. Additionally, choose a dairy-free chocolate, and for the cottage cheese layer, consider using a vegan cream cheese or firm blended tofu. The cherries? They're perfect just as they are!

Faq

  • Why does my pastry come out too dense?

    Often, overmixing can cause a dense texture. Make sure to mix your ingredients just until combined.

  • Can I use milk or dark chocolate?

    Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer taste, while milk chocolate will make the pastry sweeter.

  • How do I know when the pastry is done?

    Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out dry or with a few moist crumbs, it's done.

  • Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

    Yes, just make sure to pit them and ensure any excess moisture is removed to avoid making the pastry soggy.

  • What's the best way to melt chocolate without burning it?

    A double boiler is your best bet, but you can also use a microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring frequently.

  • Can I prepare this pastry in advance?

    Yes, you can bake it ahead of time. Just let it cool completely, cover tightly, and keep it in the fridge. It'll stay good for up to 3 days.

Nutrition facts

Brownie with cottage cheese and cherries
Recipe Yield:16 servings
Calories:per serving
Calories (Min - Max):260 - 290
Total Fat:14g
Saturated Fat:8g
Protein:6g
Total Carbohydrate:27g
Total Sugars:18g