Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies for Valentine's Day -

If you're looking to impress your partner this Valentine's Day, consider whipping up a batch of Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies. These brownies not only offer a rich, fudgy texture but also balance the sweetness with tart cherries and a subtle kick of bourbon. You might be surprised at how simple they are to make in just one bowl. Imagine serving them warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream. But before you start, let's explore the key ingredients that elevate this dessert into a truly memorable experience.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies are a decadent dessert perfect for celebrating Valentine's Day with rich flavors and a touch of romance.
Use high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) and fresh or frozen cherries for the best taste and health benefits.
The addition of bourbon enhances the flavor, but cherry juice can be a non-alcoholic alternative for a similar taste.
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or dessert wine.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for future romantic occasions.

Why you'll love this recipe

When you take a bite of these Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies, you'll immediately understand why they're the ultimate treat for any occasion.

These brownies are more than just a dessert; they create a special moment, perfect for sharing with loved ones. The combination of rich dark chocolate and tart cherries brings an incredible flavor that dances on your taste buds.

Plus, the hint of bourbon adds a unique twist that elevates the entire experience. You'll love how easy they're to make, needing only one bowl and minimal cleanup. The inclusion of Woodford Reserve Bourbon adds depth and complexity that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Whether you're celebrating Valentine's Day or just treating yourself, these brownies will impress everyone around you. Trust me, once you try them, you won't want to stop at just one!

Ingredient notes

Understanding the ingredients is essential for achieving the best results with your Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies. Start with high-quality dark chocolate, ideally 70% cocoa or higher, as it gives the brownies a rich flavor.

You can use fresh or frozen cherries; if you choose frozen, don't thaw them first, or they might make the batter too watery. For a touch of warmth, bourbon enhances the chocolate and cherry notes, but you can swap it for cherry juice or leave it out if you prefer a non-alcoholic treat.

Finally, don't forget the salt; it balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors, making these brownies a memorable dessert for your Valentine's celebration! Additionally, incorporating antioxidants from fruits can elevate the health benefits of your dessert.

How to make the recipe

Now that you have a solid grasp of the ingredients, it's time to put them together to create your Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate over low heat until smooth.

Remove from heat and mix in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each. Next, stir in the vanilla extract.

Gently fold in the flour, salt, cherries, and bourbon until just mixed. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, then let them cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Storage and serving suggestions

Now that you've made those delicious Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies, let's talk about how to store and serve them!

You can keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or pop them in the fridge for a week.

For a special treat, serve them warm with ice cream or whipped cream, and enjoy every fudgy bite! Additionally, for a delightful twist, consider pairing them with a drizzle of Chocolate Peppermint Milk Tincture, which can elevate your dessert experience.

Step 1. Melt Butter and Dark Chocolate

Melt the butter and dark chocolate together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

This step is essential, as it forms the base of your brownies, blending rich flavors that create a delicious treat.

Make sure to watch the heat; too high, and you risk burning the chocolate. As it melts, you'll notice the delightful aroma filling your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat to prevent overheating.

You're now ready to move on to adding the sugars, which will sweeten your brownies perfectly.

Step 2. Add Sugars and Mix Thoroughly

Stir in the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is well combined and glossy. This step is essential because it helps create that rich, fudgy texture you're after.

Don't rush—ensure everything's mixed thoroughly. Once combined, you can add the eggs one by one, mixing after each addition. This keeps the batter smooth and creamy.

Afterward, let the mixture sit for a bit.

Now, if you're storing the brownies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for a week.

For a fun twist, serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy these delightful brownies with your loved ones!

Step 3. Fold in Cherries and Flour

Gently fold in the flour, salt, and chopped cherries until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This step is essential, as it helps keep your brownies moist and fudgy.

Once mixed, pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.

For storage, place the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.

When you're ready to serve, warm them slightly in the microwave, then top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Enjoy these delicious brownies as a sweet treat on Valentine's Day or any day you want to indulge!

Step 4. Bake Until Set

Once you've poured the batter into the prepared pan, bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until they're set.

You'll know they're ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

After baking, allow them to cool completely before diving in!

For storage and serving, consider these delicious ideas:

Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate them for a week to maintain freshness.
Freeze brownies for up to 3 months—perfect for a future treat!
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

Enjoy your tasty creation!

Step 5. Cool and Cut Into Squares

After allowing the brownies to cool completely in the pan, it's time to cut them into squares. Use a sharp knife for clean edges, and consider warming the knife slightly to make slicing easier.

Aim for even squares, so everyone gets a delicious piece! You can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness or serve them warm with ice cream.

For storage, keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

If you want to save some for later, freeze them for up to three months! Enjoy these delightful treats during a cozy night in or as a surprise for someone special!

If you liked this you may also like

If you loved the rich flavors of Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies, you might also enjoy these other decadent desserts that combine chocolate and fruit in delightful ways.

Each of these treats packs a tasty punch, perfect for impressing your friends or family.

Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Juicy strawberries dipped in smooth chocolate make a classic, romantic dessert.
Raspberry Chocolate Tart: This tart features a buttery crust filled with rich chocolate ganache and fresh raspberries.
Chocolate Banana Bread: Moist banana bread gets an upgrade with the addition of chocolate chips and walnuts.
Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft cookies filled with dark chocolate chips and sweet cherries create a delicious twist on a favorite.

Try these scrumptious desserts to keep the chocolate and fruit fun going! Additionally, consider pairing these treats with a splash of Jack Daniels Whiskey for a unique flavor enhancement that elevates your dessert experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of Dark Chocolate?

You can definitely use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate, but it'll change the taste a bit.

Milk chocolate is sweeter and creamier, which means your brownies will have a different flavor profile. You might want to adjust the sugar in the recipe since milk chocolate is already sweet.

Keep an eye on the baking time, too, as it may vary slightly. Enjoy experimenting with flavors, and have fun baking!

What Other Fruits Pair Well With These Brownies?

You might want to try adding fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries to your brownies. Raspberries bring a tangy punch, while strawberries add sweetness.

Blueberries offer a juicy burst that complements the chocolate perfectly. Just chop them up and fold them into the batter like you'd with cherries.

These fruits not only taste amazing but also add a pop of color, making your brownies even more inviting and delicious!

How Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?

To make these brownies gluten-free, you can simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

Look for one that includes xanthan gum, which helps with the texture. You won't need to change anything else in the recipe.

Just follow the same steps, and you'll end up with delicious brownies that everyone can enjoy. They'll taste just as rich and fudgy, keeping the same delightful flavors intact!

Can I Add Nuts to the Brownie Batter?

Absolutely, you can add nuts to the brownie batter!

Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even almonds will give your brownies a nice crunch and a richer flavor. Just mix in about half a cup of your chosen nuts when you're folding in the flour and other ingredients.

Make sure to chop them into small pieces so they blend well. Enjoy experimenting with different nut combinations to find your favorite texture and taste!

What Drinks Pair Well With These Brownies?

When you're enjoying brownies, a few drinks can really enhance the experience.

Try pairing them with a rich coffee, like a mocha or espresso, which complements the chocolate flavor. If you prefer something cold, a glass of milk always works well, balancing the sweetness.

For a fun twist, consider cherry soda or even a fruity red wine, if you're old enough. These drinks can make your brownie moment even more special!

Conclusion

These Dark Chocolate Cherry Bourbon Brownies are a delicious way to impress your loved one this Valentine's Day. With their rich flavors and fudgy texture, they're sure to bring a smile. Plus, making them is easy and fun! Serve them warm with ice cream or a drizzle of bourbon sauce for an extra treat. So go ahead, whip up these brownies and create a sweet moment to remember. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful dessert!