Desserts > Brownies > Chocolate Brownies

Cherz-Topped Brownies Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped cherries
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds

Special Equipment Needed:
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another mixing bowl, mix together the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips, chopped cherries, and chopped almonds.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the brownies cool completely before adding the cherz topping.

Cherz Topping:
- 1/2 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch

1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, sugar, and water over medium heat.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cherries are soft and the sugar has dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water until smooth.
4. Add the cornstarch mixture to the cherry mixture and stir until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
6. Pour the cherz topping over the cooled brownies and spread evenly.
7. Let the cherz topping set for 10-15 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes 9-12 brownies

Nutritional information:
Calories: 280
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 140mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds can be substituted with walnuts or pecans.
- Semisweet chocolate chips can be substituted with milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips.
- Fresh cherries can be substituted with frozen cherries.

Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a spicy twist.
- Replace the cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a fruity variation.
- Add a tablespoon of instant coffee to the dry ingredients for a mocha flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Use room temperature eggs for best results.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough brownies.
- Let the brownies cool completely before adding the cherz topping to prevent it from melting.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Storage Instructions:
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Microwave the brownies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the brownies on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh cherries or whipped cream.

Pairings:
Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the brownies are too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the brownies are too wet, try adding a tablespoon of flour to the batter.

Food Safety Advice:
- Wash your hands before handling food.
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other ingredients.
- Cook the brownies to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

Food History:
Brownies were invented in the United States in the late 19th century. The first brownie recipe was published in the 1897 Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalog.

Flavor Profiles:
Rich chocolate flavor with a sweet and tangy cherry topping.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the brownies as a dessert or a sweet snack.

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Taste: Rich, Chocolatey, Sweet, Creamy, Indulgent