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 9x13 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.