Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
If you’re searching for an irresistible treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and fudge-like indulgence, look no further—Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs hit all the right notes! These bite-sized desserts are everything you love about brownies but with a juicy maraschino cherry surprise in the center and a decadent coat of chocolate. Every bite is a showstopper, whether you’re presenting a holiday platter, delighting party guests, or just sneaking a sweet reward at the end of the day. Let’s dive into just how easy and rewarding it is to whip up a batch of Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the biggest joys of making Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs is that the ingredient list is refreshingly short, yet each item plays an important role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and pure bliss. Gather your ingredients, and you’re already halfway to dessert paradise!
- Fudge brownie mix: The heart of the recipe, this shortcut guarantees a dense, moist brownie base with that beloved chewy edge.
- Eggs, oil, and water (as listed on your brownie mix): These add richness, moisture, and help bind everything together.
- Maraschino cherries: Their sweet-tart juiciness is the surprise in the center—make sure they’re well-drained and patted dry for best results.
- Chocolate almond bark or melting chocolate: Ideal for easy dipping and a glossy, snappy finish that keeps everything together.
- Chocolate frosting: This is the secret to turning brownie crumbles into a truffle-like dough—store-bought works just as beautifully as homemade.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Prepare your favorite fudge brownie mix according to the directions on the box, using the required eggs, oil, and water. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan so you get the perfect thickness. Let them cool completely in the pan; a cool brownie is much easier to crumble and work with later on, so don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Prep the Cherries
While your brownies cool, get those maraschino cherries ready for their starring role. Drain the cherries, remove the stems, and then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Any extra moisture can make the brownie dough slippery or cause the melted chocolate to seize later—so dry is key!
Step 3: Make the Brownie Mixture
Break up the cooled brownies into a large mixing bowl and add the chocolate frosting. Stir (or use your hands for extra fun) until the mixture is evenly combined, smooth, and just slightly sticky—think of it as making edible, chocolatey play-dough. This delicious mixture is what will wrap around your cherries.
Step 4: Shape the Bombs
Scoop out a tablespoon-sized amount of the brownie mixture, flatten it in your hand, and place a dry cherry in the center. Gently wrap the brownie mixture around the cherry and roll it into a ball. Set each brownie bomb on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Continue until all cherries are cozily wrapped and ready for their chocolate bath!
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Chilling is non-negotiable for neat dipping later. Pop your tray of formed brownie bombs in the fridge to firm up for at least 1 hour, or in the freezer for about 20 minutes if you’re a little impatient (and who could blame you?).
Step 6: Dip in Chocolate
Melt the almond bark or melting chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds, until silky smooth. Working one at a time, dip each brownie bomb into the melted chocolate, coating it completely, then set it back on the parchment to set. If your kitchen is warm or you want extra snap, a quick chill in the refrigerator helps set them perfectly.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Garnishes
For a special touch, a drizzle of white chocolate or a dash of colorful sprinkles on top adds instant flair. You can also finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even press a sliver of cherry or chopped nuts on top before the chocolate sets for a gourmet look.
Side Dishes
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are wonderful solo, but they pair beautifully with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a little whipped cream if you want to go all out. Serve with hot coffee or chilled milk for the ultimate treat pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange your brownie bombs in mini cupcake wrappers and build a pyramid on your favorite tray. They look delightful clustered together in a candy dish, or you can even skewer them on sticks for brownie bomb pops—instant crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any uneaten Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh, fudgy, and delicious for up to 5 days. The chocolate shell helps lock in the moisture—you’ll have a perfect treat for whenever your next craving strikes!
Freezing
If you’d like to prepare these ahead (or you want to hide a secret stash), they freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight, freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and they’re just as delightful as when freshly made.
Reheating
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you like a molten experience, pop one in the microwave for 5-8 seconds—just enough to soften the chocolate, not melt it. It’s like a lava cake, but in hand-held form!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Maraschino cherries are traditional for their sweetness and vivid color, but you can use fresh pitted cherries when they’re in season. Just be sure to completely dry them and expect a slightly less sweet—and wonderfully juicy—center.
What’s the best way to melt almond bark or chocolate for dipping?
Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat the chocolate in short intervals, stirring frequently until smooth. Alternatively, a double boiler works well for larger batches and keeps the chocolate warm for dipping longer.
Can I make the brownie bombs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Start with your favorite gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients, including frosting and chocolate, are gluten-free certified for a completely celiac-friendly dessert.
Why do my brownie bombs crack after dipping?
This usually happens if the brownie centers are too cold and the chocolate is very warm. Let the chilled bombs sit at room temperature for a few minutes before dipping to minimize temperature shock and keep that coating flawlessly smooth.
Can I add a boozy twist to these brownie bombs?
For a grown-up version, soak your maraschino cherries in a little bourbon or rum (then pat dry before wrapping in brownie mixture). This adds a sophisticated, festive note—just be sure to label them if you have kids around!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a party showstopper, a sweet gift, or a midnight treat, these little delights are guaranteed to bring a moment of joy with every bite. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend to join in, and let the chocolate-cherry celebration begin!
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Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling and cooling)
- Yield: 24 brownie bombs 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings. A delightful combination of fudgy brownie, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate coating, these treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special indulgence for yourself.
Ingredients
Brownie Mix:
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (about 18.3 oz), plus ingredients listed on package (eggs, oil, water)
Cherries:
- 1 jar maraschino cherries (10 oz), drained, stems removed, and patted dry
Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz chocolate almond bark or melting chocolate
Frosting:
- 1 cup chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Mixture: Bake the brownies according to package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan. Let cool completely.
- Mix Brownie and Frosting: Crumble the brownies into a bowl, add frosting, and mix until dough-like.
- Form Brownie Balls: Flatten a portion of the mixture, place a cherry in the center, and wrap the brownie around it to form a ball.
- Chill: Place the balls on a baking sheet, chill for at least 1 hour, or freeze for 20 minutes until firm.
- Coat in Chocolate: Melt chocolate, dip each brownie ball, coat completely, and let set.
Notes
- Pat cherries completely dry to prevent chocolate from seizing.
- For variety, try soaking cherries in bourbon or rum before wrapping.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and dipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie bomb
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
