Introduction to Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I absolutely adore these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful escape from the everyday hustle. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich brownie, bursting with cherry goodness, all wrapped in smooth chocolate. It’s the perfect dessert to impress your loved ones or to indulge in after a long day. Trust me, these little bites of joy will make your heart sing and your taste buds dance!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are a dream come true for busy lives. They’re quick to make, taking just over an hour from start to finish. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser! The combination of rich brownie, sweet cherry filling, and smooth chocolate creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these treats will surely bring smiles all around!
Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brownie mix: The star of the show! A box mix saves time and ensures a rich, fudgy base.
- Water: This helps to activate the brownie mix, creating that perfect texture.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the brownies, making them extra decadent.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and giving the brownies structure.
- Cherry pie filling: The sweet surprise inside! It adds a burst of fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For coating the brownie bombs, these chips melt into a luscious layer of chocolate goodness.
- Shortening: This helps to create a smooth, glossy chocolate coating that hardens perfectly.
Feel free to get creative! You can swap the cherry pie filling for raspberry or strawberry if you prefer a different flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dessert that will wow everyone.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your brownies bake evenly. A hot oven helps the brownies rise and develop that perfect fudgy texture. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Mix
Next, grab your brownie mix and follow the package instructions. Typically, you’ll mix it with water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Each ingredient plays a role: water activates the mix, oil adds moisture, and eggs bind everything together. Stir until smooth, but don’t overmix—this keeps your brownies tender!
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into a greased baking pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden! If it’s wet, give it a couple more minutes.
Step 4: Cool the Brownies
Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step is essential! If you try to form the balls while they’re warm, they’ll crumble. Cooling allows them to firm up, making it easier to shape them later.
Step 5: Form the Brownie Balls
Now comes the fun part! Cut the cooled brownies into small squares and roll them into balls. Make a small indentation in each ball using your thumb. This little pocket will hold the cherry filling, so don’t skip this step!
Step 6: Fill with Cherry Pie Filling
Time to add the cherry pie filling! Carefully spoon a small amount into each indentation. Be cautious not to overfill; you want just enough to give a burst of flavor without spilling out. A little goes a long way!
Step 7: Chill the Brownie Balls
Place the filled brownie balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate later. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to meld together!
Step 8: Melt the Chocolate
While the brownie balls chill, melt your chocolate chips and shortening together in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until smooth. This method prevents the chocolate from burning. You want it silky and ready for dipping!
Step 9: Dip the Brownie Balls
Now, it’s time to dip! Take each chilled brownie ball and carefully coat it in the melted chocolate. Use a fork to lift it out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Make sure they’re fully covered for that luscious finish!
Step 10: Set the Chocolate Covered Brownie Bombs
Finally, place the chocolate-covered brownie bombs on a parchment-lined tray. Let them set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge for quicker results. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chocolate shell!
Tips for Success
- Use a cookie scoop for even brownie balls; it makes shaping a breeze!
- Chill the brownie balls longer if they feel too soft; this helps with dipping.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets.
- Keep your chocolate warm while dipping to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Experiment with different fillings like peanut butter or caramel for a fun twist!
Equipment Needed
- Baking pan: A 9×9 inch pan works well, but any similar size will do.
- Mixing bowl: Use a large bowl for mixing the brownie batter; a stand mixer can save time.
- Microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate; a double boiler is a great alternative.
- Parchment paper: Line your tray for easy cleanup; wax paper can work in a pinch.
- Cookie scoop: Helps shape uniform brownie balls; your hands will do just fine too!
Variations
- Fruit Fillings: Swap the cherry pie filling for raspberry, blueberry, or even peach for a different fruity twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie mix for added crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make these treats suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use a plant-based brownie mix for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the chocolate coating for a refreshing mint chocolate flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
- For a festive presentation, arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh cherries.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk to balance the sweetness.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch!
FAQs about Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Can I use homemade brownie mix instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure it has a similar texture to a box mix for the best results.
How do I store Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs?
Store these delightful treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Can I freeze these brownie bombs?
Yes! These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be enjoyed later, making them perfect for meal prep!
What can I substitute for cherry pie filling?
If cherries aren’t your thing, try using other fruit fillings like raspberry or even chocolate ganache for a different flavor experience. The possibilities are endless!
How can I make these brownie bombs more festive?
For a festive touch, consider adding sprinkles or crushed nuts on top of the chocolate coating. You can also drizzle some white chocolate for a beautiful contrast!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs is more than just baking; it’s about sharing joy and sweetness with those you love. Each bite is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and fruity cherry that brings smiles to faces, young and old alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, these little bombs of happiness are sure to brighten your mood. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this fun and delicious adventure. Trust me, the joy of making and sharing these treats is truly priceless!
Print
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs that Delight Every Bite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownie bombs 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are decadent treats that combine rich brownie bites with a cherry filling, all coated in smooth chocolate for a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions using water, oil, and eggs.
- Pour the brownie batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool completely.
- Cut the brownies into small squares and form them into balls.
- Make a small indentation in each ball and fill it with cherry pie filling.
- Chill the brownie balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate chips and shortening together in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Dip each brownie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place the chocolate-covered brownie bombs on a parchment-lined tray and let them set.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie bomb
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
