If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that packs a punch of flavor, texture, and a delightful surprise inside, the Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe is exactly what you need. These little bites combine rich, fudgy brownie goodness, a burst of juicy cherry in the center, and a glossy chocolate coating that makes every mouthful utterly irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns an ordinary brownie into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role—from the fudgy brownie base to the luscious cherry surprise and the smooth chocolate coating. Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible brownie bombs.
- 18.3 ounces box of chewy fudge brownie mix: Choose your favorite brand for easy, reliable brownie batter that’s irresistibly fudgy.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies moist and tender without overpowering flavor.
- ¼ cup water: Helps bring the batter together into that perfect consistency.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Binds the brownie ingredients and adds richness for a perfect crumb.
- 12 ounce can of whipped chocolate frosting: Adds creaminess and sweetness to the brownie crumbs for a luscious filling.
- 10 ounce jar of maraschino cherries, drained, stems removed, and patted dry: The star surprise in every bite that brings a bright, juicy pop.
- 18 ounces chocolate almond bark: Melts smoothly for a shiny, firm coating that encases each brownie bomb beautifully.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepping a 9×13-inch pan with spray so nothing sticks. Mix the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs gently in a medium bowl until combined, being careful not to over-mix. Spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake according to package directions, then set aside to cool completely. This fudgy base is the foundation for your brownie bombs.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Filling
Once your brownies have cooled, crumble half into a large bowl and spread half the whipped chocolate frosting over them. Add the remaining crumbled brownies, then the rest of the frosting. Stir it all together using a large spoon until you have a smooth, even mixture. This mixture should hold together nicely, setting the stage for the delicious cherry surprise.
Step 3: Shape the Brownie Bombs with Cherries
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a 1½ tablespoon scoop to portion the brownie-frosting mix, rolling each into a ball. Slightly flatten each ball, then use your thumb to create a small well in the center. Nestle one maraschino cherry into the indentation and carefully fold the brownie mix around it, sealing the cherry inside as you roll them back into balls. Place all the brownie bombs on the parchment-lined sheet and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
Step 4: Coat with Melted Chocolate Almond Bark
Break the almond bark into pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 1-minute increments, stirring between each, until silky smooth. Working quickly but gently, drop each chilled brownie bomb into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Lift it out with a fork, tapping off excess chocolate, then set them back onto the parchment paper. Refrigerate again until the chocolate coating sets perfectly.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of elegance, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or finely chopped toasted nuts on top of the fresh chocolate coating before it sets. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy effect that contrasts beautifully with the deep chocolate color. These garnishes not only make the brownie bombs prettier but also introduce new layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownie bombs with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the sweetness and add creamy texture. Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce beside the plate can accentuate the cherry notes for an impressive dessert presentation.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these into mini dessert platters by skewering a brownie bomb with a fresh cherry on top or presenting them in mini cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go treats. You could also serve them alongside coffee or hot cocoa at a cozy gathering for a delightful pairing that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping them chilled ensures the chocolate coating remains firm and the cherry inside stays fresh and juicy.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownie bombs slightly softened, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes after removing them from the fridge. Avoid microwaving, as it may melt the chocolate coating irregularly and make the cherries too warm.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can work, but they tend to have less sweetness and more moisture, which might affect the texture of the brownie bomb. If you opt for fresh, make sure to pit and dry them thoroughly to avoid soggy centers.
Is it necessary to use chocolate almond bark for the coating?
Chocolate almond bark melts smoothly and hardens nicely, making it ideal for coating. You can substitute with good-quality melting chocolate or candy melts, just be sure they set firmly at room temperature.
Can I make these brownie bombs dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, look for a brownie mix and frosting that are dairy-free, and use a dairy-free chocolate alternative for the coating. Keep in mind texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the cherries from making the brownie bombs too wet?
Pat the cherries dry very well before sealing them inside the brownie mixture. Excess moisture can cause the bombs to lose firmness or affect the chocolate coating.
Can I make these without frosting?
The frosting helps bind the crumbled brownies and adds creamy sweetness. Without it, the mixture may be too crumbly to hold together properly when forming the bombs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to dazzle your friends or just treat yourself to something special, the Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe hits every note of indulgence and fun. They transform simple brownies into bite-sized treasures with a luscious cherry surprise and a glossy chocolate coating that feels like a gift in every bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your dessert line-up!
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Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are delightful bite-sized treats featuring rich chewy fudge brownies with a hidden maraschino cherry inside, all coated in smooth chocolate almond bark. These decadent brownies combine moist texture and a fruity surprise, perfect for parties or as an indulgent dessert.
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownie bombs
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 18.3 ounces box of chewy fudge brownie mix (e.g., Duncan Hines)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup water
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
Filling and Coating
- 12 ounce can whipped chocolate frosting (e.g., Betty Crocker)
- 10 ounce jar maraschino cherries, drained, stems removed, and patted dry
- 18 ounces chocolate almond bark
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baker’s spray like Baker’s Joy to prevent sticking.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing, ensuring a chewy texture.
- Bake Brownies: Evenly spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake according to package instructions, approximately 25 minutes. Once baked, allow brownies to cool completely for best consistency.
- Prepare Brownie Mixture: Crumble half of the cooled brownies into a large mixing bowl. Spoon half the whipped chocolate frosting over the crumbled brownies. Add the rest of the crumbled brownies on top, then spoon the remaining frosting. Use a large spoon to thoroughly combine until smooth and even.
- Form Brownie Balls with Cherry: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the brownie mixture and roll into balls. Slightly flatten each ball and create a small indentation in the center with your thumb. Place one maraschino cherry in the indentation, then carefully fold the brownie mixture over the cherry and roll again to seal. Place each brownie ball on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate Almond Bark: Break almond bark into pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring thoroughly between intervals until smooth and fully melted.
- Coat Brownie Bombs: Dip each chilled brownie ball into the melted almond bark using a spoon to fully coat. Gently lift with a fork, tapping on the edge to remove excess chocolate. Place coated brownie bombs back onto parchment paper. Repeat until all balls are coated.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate coated brownie bombs until chocolate is set and firm, then serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Do not overmix brownie batter to keep brownies chewy and tender.
- Use room temperature eggs for best batter consistency.
- Chilling brownie balls before coating helps maintain shape and prevents melting.
- Store finished brownie bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American