Chocolate brownies with cherries and coconut

Chocolate Cherry Coconut Brownies

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines the intense flavor of chocolate with the juiciness of cherries and the delicate aroma of coconut? This recipe for chocolate cherry coconut brownies is not only simple but also a true feast for the senses. Although the base recipe comes from a famous culinary magazine, I have adapted it to create a version of brownies that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Get ready to impress with an easy-to-make delicacy that's full of flavor!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 10 brownies

Ingredients

- 150 g dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa for an intense taste)
- 125 g butter (make sure it’s at room temperature for even melting)
- 200 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to personal preference)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature)
- 100 g flour (needed for a fluffy texture)
- 1 vial vanilla extract (or a vanilla pod, if you prefer)
- 200 g pitted cherries (either fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons grated coconut plus extra for decoration
- White chocolate for decoration (optional, but recommended for a delicious contrast)

Preparation

1. Melting the chocolate: In a small saucepan, add the butter, dark chocolate, and sugar. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until the ingredients are completely melted and blended smoothly. Do not let the mixture boil, as it may curdle.

2. Combining wet ingredients: Once the chocolate mixture has cooled slightly, pour it into a large bowl. Start adding the eggs, one at a time, and whisk until fully incorporated. Then, add the vanilla extract and grated coconut, mixing well.

3. Adding dry ingredients: Sift the flour over the mixture and gently fold it in with a spatula or whisk, being careful not to overmix. It’s essential to achieve a smooth texture, but avoid excessive mixing, as the brownies may become dense.

4. Preparing the brownie pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a brownie pan with special paper or grease the molds with butter and sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking.

5. Filling the molds: Use a spoon to fill each mold with about a tablespoon of the chocolate mixture. Then, add 3 cherries to each mold, and cover them with another thin layer of mixture. Repeat the process for each brownie. Finally, sprinkle a little grated coconut on top of the brownies.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the brownies bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the brownies are slightly cracked on top, don’t worry; that’s a sign they are perfect!

7. Cooling and decorating: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, you can decorate them with grated white chocolate and, if desired, with an extra sprinkle of coconut.

Chef’s Tip

- Healthy choices: If you want to enhance the nutritional value of the brownies, you can use a natural sweetener instead of sugar or replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- Fruit variation: Instead of cherries, you can try using raspberries, blueberries, or even banana chunks for an explosion of different flavors.
- Ideal drinks: These brownies pair wonderfully with a cup of warm milk or a flavored coffee. If you’re a tea fan, a fruit tea will perfectly complement the dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

These brownies are rich in antioxidants due to the dark chocolate and contain vitamins and minerals from the cherries. The coconut adds healthy fats and protein, making them a good choice for a delicious snack. On average, each brownie has about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
While white chocolate won’t provide the same intense flavors, you can experiment with it, but it may add extra sweetness.

How can I keep the brownies fresh?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them moist and delicious. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

Can I make the batter in advance?
Sure! You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.

These chocolate cherry coconut brownies are not just a dessert; they are an unforgettable experience. And when you savor them, you’ll remember that every bite is filled with love and passion for cooking. So don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!