Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies a rich and indulgent dessert combining the deep flavor of chocolate with the tartness of roasted cherries for a decadent treat. These brownies are a perfect balance of sweetness and depth, with the roasted cherries enhancing the flavor in a way that takes these brownies to the next level.
Ingredients
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup coconut flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
½ cup dark chocolate chips
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the halved cherries on the baking sheet, then drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup. Roast them for 15-20 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and caramelized. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the maple syrup, applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond butter. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms.
Gently fold in the roasted cherries and dark chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into a greased 8x8-inch baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Servings and timing
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 9 servings
Variations
Nut butter options: If you’re not a fan of almond butter, you can swap it out for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
Sweetener swap: If you prefer honey over maple syrup, feel free to substitute it in equal amounts. Both work well and offer slightly different sweetness.
Flour alternatives: Although I use almond flour and coconut flour here, you could try other gluten-free flours like rice flour or oat flour, though they may change the texture slightly.
Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent dessert.
Storage/reheating
To store the brownies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, I recommend refrigerating them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave them for a few seconds to warm them up, or pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries will work! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before roasting to avoid excess moisture in the brownies.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for a vegan diet. Use maple syrup instead of honey and replace the almond butter with peanut butter. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips to make it completely vegan.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While almond flour and coconut flour are used in this recipe for a gluten-free twist, you could try using a regular all-purpose flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if preferred.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. If it comes out wet with batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can freeze the brownies. After they’ve cooled completely, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are the perfect treat to satisfy my sweet tooth while offering a burst of fruity flavor. The combination of the rich chocolate with the caramelized roasted cherries creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether I’m serving them for a special occasion or enjoying them as a snack, these brownies are a guaranteed hit!
Recipe:

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and indulgent dessert combining the deep flavor of chocolate with the tartness of roasted cherries for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup coconut flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
½ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread the halved cherries on the baking sheet, then drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and caramelized. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the maple syrup, applesauce, vanilla extract, and almond butter. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms.
- Gently fold in the roasted cherries and dark chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8x8-inch baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
Nut butter options: Swap almond butter for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
Sweetener swap: Use honey instead of maple syrup in equal amounts.
Flour alternatives: Try rice flour or oat flour, though they may change the texture slightly.
Toppings: Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg