If you love the combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries, these 5-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a dessert you won’t want to miss. They’re wonderfully fudgy, packed with chocolate flavor, and filled with juicy cherry pieces that make every bite extra special.
The best part? You only need five simple ingredients to prepare this delicious treat. No complicated techniques, no long ingredient list, and no fancy equipment required.
These brownies are perfect for Valentine’s Day, holiday dessert trays, potlucks, birthday celebrations, or an easy homemade chocolate dessert whenever a craving strikes.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Cherry Brownies
- Only five ingredients: A simple recipe using convenient ingredients.
- Rich chocolate flavor: The brownie base is dense, moist, and delicious.
- Sweet cherry pieces: Cherries add a fruity contrast to the chocolate.
- Easy preparation: No complicated mixing or baking techniques.
- Perfect for sharing: Slice into squares for parties and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 box (18–19 ounces) chocolate brownie mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-by-8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherries
Drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Chop the cherries into small pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the brownie batter.
Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water.
Stir until the dry ingredients are moistened and the batter is smooth. Avoid overmixing to help maintain a fudgy texture.
Step 4: Fold in the Cherries
Gently fold the chopped cherries into the brownie batter using a spatula.
Reserve a few small cherry pieces if you would like to decorate the top.
Step 5: Transfer to the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly into the corners.
If desired, arrange the reserved cherry pieces over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for approximately 30–38 minutes, checking the package directions as a guide.
The edges should look set, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs rather than wet batter.
Avoid overbaking, as the brownies will continue to set while cooling.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely.
Lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Cherry Brownies
- Drain cherries thoroughly: Extra liquid can make the brownies too wet.
- Pat cherries dry: This helps prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.
- Don’t overmix: Stir only until the ingredients are combined.
- Check early: Brownie mixes can vary, so begin checking near the lower end of the baking time.
- Cool completely: This helps the brownies hold their shape when sliced.
- Use parchment paper: It makes removing the brownies much easier.
Easy Variations
Chocolate Cherry Fudge Brownies: Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor. This is an optional addition.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Brownies: Use dark chocolate brownie mix for a richer taste.
Almond Chocolate Cherry Brownies: Add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract for a classic cherry-and-almond flavor. This is optional and not part of the five-ingredient recipe.
Chocolate Frosted Cherry Brownies: Spread a thin layer of chocolate frosting over the cooled brownies for an extra-decadent dessert.
Fresh Cherry Brownies: Use pitted, chopped fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries. Pat them dry before adding.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Brownies
These brownies taste wonderful on their own, but you can make them even more special by serving them with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Fresh cherries on the side.
- A spoonful of whipped cream.
- A cup of coffee or cold milk.
For a special occasion, arrange the brownies on a dessert platter and garnish with a few whole cherries.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature: Store completely cooled brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 days in a cool room.
Refrigerator: Keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual brownie squares tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes. Use pitted and chopped fresh cherries. Remove excess moisture before folding them into the batter.
Why are my brownies too wet in the middle?
The cherries may have contained too much liquid, or the brownies may need additional baking time. Drain and pat the cherries dry, and check the center before removing the pan from the oven.
Can I use a different brownie mix?
Absolutely. Fudge, dark chocolate, or classic chocolate brownie mixes all work well. Follow the package directions as a guide for baking.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes. Bake them a day ahead, allow them to cool completely, and store them in an airtight container.
How do I get clean brownie slices?
Let the brownies cool completely. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.
Final Thoughts
These 5-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a simple way to turn an ordinary brownie mix into something extra special. The rich chocolate base and sweet cherry pieces create a delicious combination that feels perfect for holidays, celebrations, or everyday dessert cravings.
They’re easy to prepare, simple to share, and full of chocolate-and-cherry goodness. Make a batch, let them cool, and enjoy a homemade treat everyone will love!
Recipe Card
5-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 30–38 minutes
Cooling Time: 45–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients
- 1 box (18–19 ounces) chocolate brownie mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan.
- Drain the cherries thoroughly, pat dry, and chop into small pieces.
- Combine brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water in a large bowl.
- Stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for approximately 30–38 minutes, using the package directions as a guide, until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before cutting into 16 squares.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days refrigerated.