Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Description of this Recipe:
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are a delightful fusion of fudgy brownie, juicy cherry, and smooth, sweet almond bark. Each bite is an explosion of textures and flavors that will captivate your taste buds. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant, irresistible treat, perfect for parties, gifts, or a special indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll adore these brownie bombs for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, starting with a convenient brownie mix that saves time without sacrificing flavor. The combination of rich chocolate brownie and sweet cherry provides a perfect balance, while the almond bark adds a delightful crunch and creamy finish. They’re also highly customizable; you can use different types of cherries, add nuts or sprinkles, or even drizzle with extra chocolate for a personalized touch. These brownie bombs are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a standout addition to any dessert spread.
Introduction:
In the realm of decadent desserts, these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs reign supreme. Picture a fudgy, rich brownie transformed into a bite-sized treasure, cradling a sweet, juicy cherry, and then enveloped in a crisp, smooth layer of almond bark. This is not just a treat; it’s an experience. This recipe takes the familiar comfort of homemade brownies to a whole new level of sophistication and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and immensely rewarding. The combination of textures—the soft brownie, the burst of cherry juice, and the snappy almond bark—creates a symphony in your mouth that is both satisfying and addictive. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will impress your friends, delight your family, and leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
1 box (approximately 18-20 ounces) brownie mix (plus ingredients required to prepare it, typically eggs, oil, and water)
3/4 cup chocolate frosting (canned or homemade)
15 ounces almond bark, melted according to package instructions
1 can (approximately 15 ounces) cherry pie filling or maraschino cherries, drained well
Prep:
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Prepare the brownie batter as directed, ensuring there are no lumps for a smooth, even bake. Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan (typically 9×13 inches) and spread evenly. Bake according to the package directions, but check for doneness a few minutes early. You want the brownies to be fudgy, not cakey, so avoid overbaking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached.
Step 2: Cool the Brownies Completely
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial because warm brownies will be too soft to handle and form into bombs. Cooling allows them to firm up, making them easier to crumble and shape. Patience is key!
Step 3: Crumble and Mix
Once the brownies are completely cool, crumble them into a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to break them into small, even pieces. Add the chocolate frosting to the crumbled brownies. Start with 3/4 cup and mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until the mixture is well combined. The consistency should be moist and pliable, easily holding its shape without being overly sticky. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more frosting, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 4: Prepare the Cherries
If you’re using cherry pie filling, drain it well to remove excess syrup. For maraschino cherries, pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because excess moisture can make the brownie bombs soggy.
Step 5: Form the Brownie Bombs
Take approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of the brownie mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Flatten the ball slightly and make a small indentation in the center. Place one cherry into the indentation. Gently fold the brownie mixture around the cherry to completely enclose it, ensuring there are no gaps. Roll the bomb between your palms to smooth out any cracks or imperfections. Repeat this process until all the brownie mixture and cherries are used.
Step 6: Freeze the Brownie Bombs
Place the formed brownie bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and put them in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This chilling period helps the bombs firm up, making them easier to dip in the melted almond bark without falling apart.
Step 7: Melt the Almond Bark
While the brownie bombs are freezing, melt the almond bark according to package instructions. Typically, this involves microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the almond bark to seize up.
Step 8: Dip in Almond Bark
Remove the brownie bombs from the freezer. One at a time, dip each bomb into the melted almond bark, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tools to lift the bomb out of the almond bark, allowing any excess to drip off.
Step 9: Set and Decorate
Place the dipped brownie bombs on a sheet of wax paper. If desired, sprinkle with toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate before the almond bark sets. Allow the coating to set completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes.
COOK Rating:
5/5 Stars – These are a must-try!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs as a delightful dessert at parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for loved ones. They can be beautifully arranged on a platter or individually wrapped as gifts. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips:
Use high-quality almond bark for the best flavor and texture.
Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before crumbling to prevent a sticky mess.
Drain the cherries thoroughly to avoid soggy brownie bombs.
Work quickly when dipping in almond bark, as it tends to set quickly.
For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of edible glitter or colored sugar while the almond bark is still wet.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (includes cooling and setting time)
Nutrition Information: (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes)
Calories: Approximately 250-300 per bomb
Protein: 3-4 grams
Sodium: 100-150 mg
Conclusion:
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The combination of fudgy brownie, sweet cherry, and smooth almond bark creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your senses. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. So go ahead, indulge in these bite-sized treasures and share the joy with your friends and family. Happy baking!
Write 5 questions and answers about this recipe.
Q1: Can I use a gluten-free brownie mix for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Using a gluten-free brownie mix is a great way to make this recipe accessible to those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure the mix is of good quality to maintain the fudgy texture essential for the brownie bombs.
Q2: What if I don’t have almond bark? Can I use another type of chocolate?
A: Yes, you can substitute almond bark with other types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate. Each will offer a unique flavor profile, so choose according to your preference. Make sure to melt the chocolate slowly and stir frequently to avoid burning.
Q3: How long can I store these brownie bombs, and what’s the best way to store them?
A: These brownie bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Q4: Can I add nuts or other ingredients to the brownie mixture or as a topping?
A: Definitely! Feel free to customize these brownie bombs to your liking. You can add chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the brownie mixture for added crunch. As for toppings, consider sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.
Q5: Is there a way to make these brownie bombs less sweet?
A: If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can use a dark chocolate brownie mix or reduce the amount of frosting added to the crumbled brownies. Also, consider using fresh or tart cherries instead of maraschino cherries to balance the sweetness. Using dark chocolate almond bark can also help cut down on the overall sweetness.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Bake the Brownies
- Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Prepare the brownie batter as directed, ensuring there are no lumps for a smooth, even bake. Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan (typically 9×13 inches) and spread evenly. Bake according to the package directions, but check for doneness a few minutes early. You want the brownies to be fudgy, not cakey, so avoid overbaking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached.
- Step 2: Cool the Brownies Completely
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial because warm brownies will be too soft to handle and form into bombs. Cooling allows them to firm up, making them easier to crumble and shape. Patience is key!
- Step 3: Crumble and Mix
- Once the brownies are completely cool, crumble them into a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to break them into small, even pieces. Add the chocolate frosting to the crumbled brownies. Start with 3/4 cup and mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until the mixture is well combined. The consistency should be moist and pliable, easily holding its shape without being overly sticky. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more frosting, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Step 4: Prepare the Cherries
- If you’re using cherry pie filling, drain it well to remove excess syrup. For maraschino cherries, pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because excess moisture can make the brownie bombs soggy.
- Step 5: Form the Brownie Bombs
- Take approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of the brownie mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Flatten the ball slightly and make a small indentation in the center. Place one cherry into the indentation. Gently fold the brownie mixture around the cherry to completely enclose it, ensuring there are no gaps. Roll the bomb between your palms to smooth out any cracks or imperfections. Repeat this process until all the brownie mixture and cherries are used.
- Step 6: Freeze the Brownie Bombs
- Place the formed brownie bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and put them in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This chilling period helps the bombs firm up, making them easier to dip in the melted almond bark without falling apart.
- Step 7: Melt the Almond Bark
- While the brownie bombs are freezing, melt the almond bark according to package instructions. Typically, this involves microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the almond bark to seize up.
- Step 8: Dip in Almond Bark
- Remove the brownie bombs from the freezer. One at a time, dip each bomb into the melted almond bark, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tools to lift the bomb out of the almond bark, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Step 9: Set and Decorate
- Place the dipped brownie bombs on a sheet of wax paper. If desired, sprinkle with toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate before the almond bark sets. Allow the coating to set completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes.
