Cherry brownies with cream cheese frosting

Ingredients

Filling

100 grams (3.5 ounces) cherries
240 grams (8.5 ounces) cream cheese
50 grams (1.75 ounces) sugar
1 egg yolk

Brownies

2 eggs
1 egg white
100 grams (3.5 ounces) flour
100 grams (3.5 ounces) brown sugar
70 grams (2.5 ounces) white sugar (optional)
10 grams (0.35 ounces) vanilla sugar
180 grams (6.35 ounces) dark chocolate
100 grams (3.5 ounces) butter
0.5 teaspoon baking powder
0.25 teaspoon baking soda
pinch of salt

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
You'll need separate bowls for mixing the brownie batter and the cream cheese filling. Make sure they're large enough to give you plenty of stirring room.
Fork
For mixing your cream cheese filling until smooth. A fork works perfectly here since you don't need a mixer for this recipe.
Microwave-Safe Bowl
For melting butter and chocolate together. Use short bursts in the microwave and stir frequently to avoid burning.
Baking Paper
Lining your mold with baking paper will make removing the brownies a breeze and ensure a clean cut.
Baking Mold
A square or rectangular baking mold works best. Ensure it’s properly lined to achieve uniform baking.

Instructions

Step 1

What we love about brownies is how simple they are to make - you just mix everything, put it in the oven, and get a delicious dessert. Needless to say, how awesome they turn out if you add cherries & cream cheese filling… Anyone can make such brownies, even without a mixer. You are guaranteed to become a chef in the eyes of your family 😄👍🏻

Step 2

Put all the ingredients for the filling except cherries in a small bowl and mix with a fork until smooth. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 3

Melt the butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water or in a microwave using short bursts. When melted, mix in all the sugars and let cool slightly. Stir gently to incorporate air for a lighter texture.

Step 4

One at a time, mix in the eggs and egg white. Stir in the flour sifted with baking powder, baking soda, and salt until the batter is homogeneous. Do not overmix. Overmixing can cause the brownies to be tough instead of fudgy.

Step 5

Line a mold with baking paper. Spread half of the batter evenly on the bottom. Place the cherries across the batter. Pour the cream cheese filling on top of the cherries. Finally, spread the remaining batter over the filling and gently smooth it out. Gently tap the mold on the counter to release any air bubbles in the batter.

Step 6

Bake at 320°F (160°C) for about 40-60 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Let the brownies cool completely in the mold before slicing into squares. Cooling completely allows the flavors to develop and makes it easier to cut clean squares. Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Servings

Ever pondered the best way to serve these epic treats? Let's dive into some mouthwatering serving suggestions to make your brownies even more unforgettable! First off, enjoy them just as they are—soft, fudgy, and oozing with cream cheese and cherries. A cold glass of milk or hot cup of coffee pairs perfectly with their rich flavors. To enhance the sensory experience, try warming the brownies slightly before serving. This will make the filling even gooier and more irresistible! For a show-stopping dessert, serve a slice of these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The combination of warm brownie and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to beat. Want to go a step further? Drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of indulgence. Feeling fancy? Make a brownie parfait! Cut the brownies into small squares and layer them in glasses with whipped cream and fresh cherry pieces. Not only does it look stunning, but it also provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite. If you're hosting a party, consider cutting the brownies into bite-sized pieces and serving them on a platter. Add toothpicks for easy grabbing, and watch them disappear in no time. You’ll be the star of the event with these little pieces of heaven! Lastly, a morning-after treat idea: dice up some brownies and mix them into your favorite yogurt. It’s like having dessert for breakfast but a tad healthier! No matter how you serve these Cherries & Cream Cheese Brownies, they're sure to impress! Get creative and enjoy every luscious bite.

Variations

Transforming this recipe into a gluten-free or vegan delight is entirely possible! For the gluten-free variation, replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for better texture and binding. All other ingredients remain the same, so you can still enjoy the gooey, rich taste. For the vegan variation, swap out the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Use 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons of water) instead of regular eggs, and replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Opt for dark chocolate that's labeled vegan, ensuring no dairy surprises. This way, even those with dietary restrictions can indulge in this heavenly treat!

Faq

Why did my brownies turn out dry?
Brownies can become dry if overbaked. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness around the 40-minute mark using a toothpick.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
What size baking mold should I use?
A standard 9x9 inch baking mold works best for this recipe, but an 8x8 inch mold can also work if you adjust the baking time accordingly.
How can I ensure my cream cheese filling is smooth?
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with the other filling ingredients without lumps.
Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will result in a sweeter brownie, altering the balance of flavors slightly.
What's the best way to store leftover brownies?
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.