Fudgy Dark Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Last week, I swapped recipes with Deb from Bowl Me Over. She shared a light and delicious Cheesy Vegetable Soup recipe with us that I can't wait to try soon. I brought her a rich and fudgy Dark Chocolate Cherry Brownie recipe that is too good to miss. Dark chocolate chunks, chewy dried cherries, and crunchy cocoa nibs are loaded into a simple fudge brownie batter. I first made this recipe to help celebrate with my sister and brother-in-law their soon-to-be new arrival to the family.

Yup, I'm going to be an aunt! My mom hosted a barbecue to celebrate, and we got a surprise during dessert! I will be welcoming a niece in September. The outdoor setting on an 80 degree afternoon in April was the perfect way to celebrate. My dad grilled up a heap of ribs and chicken, and we (of course) had way too many chocolate desserts.

Dried cherries are one of my favorite snacks, so if I can tuck them into my favorite dessert (brownies) then it's a win-win, right? These brownies turned out amazing, and you can definitely taste the cherries in there. A little bit of almond extract and tart cherry juice boost the flavor of the dried cherries and keeps the brownies fudgy and moist.

Since I was making this recipe for a gender-reveal party, I soaked the tart dried cherries in cherry juice, but if you were feeling a little sinful, you spike it with a little kirsch or even brandy. Be sure to use a good quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor, and don't over-bake. As soon as a toothpick comes out clean, the brownies are done.

For the full recipe and baking directions, make sure to head over to Bowl Me Over.