Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s equal parts nostalgic and decadent, let me introduce you to Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs. These little bites are a chocolate lover’s dream: fudgy brownie wrapped around juicy maraschino cherries, then dipped in a silky chocolate coating. Every bite is an explosion of rich, fruity, and gooey goodness. They’re the kind of treat that disappears from dessert tables in minutes, perfect for holidays, parties, or just when you want something absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is. Every component adds something unique, whether it’s the fudgy base, the cherry center, or that crackly chocolate shell—together, they create pure magic!
- Brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for): The heart of these bombs, giving them a dense, chewy texture that’s just right for wrapping around cherries.
- Maraschino cherries (20, drained and patted dry): These sweet, vibrant cherries are the surprise center that makes every bite pop with color and flavor.
- Chocolate frosting (1/2 cup): This binds the brownie crumbs, making the mixture pliable and extra moist for easy shaping.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting chocolate (12 oz): For that signature glossy coating and rich chocolate flavor.
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening (1 tablespoon, optional): Adding this to the chocolate helps create a smoother, more even coating.
- Sprinkles or sea salt for topping (optional): These add a touch of flair and a little extra crunch or pop of flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Step 1: Bake and Cool the Brownies
Start by preparing your favorite boxed brownie mix according to the package instructions. Once they’re baked to perfection, let them cool completely. This is crucial—warm brownies will be too soft to crumble and shape, so patience here pays off!
Step 2: Crumble and Mix
Once your brownies are cool, crumble them into a large mixing bowl, discarding any overly crispy edges. Add the chocolate frosting a bit at a time and mix until the brownie mixture is moist and holds together like a soft dough. This step is all about getting your hands a little messy and having fun!
Step 3: Encase the Cherries
Scoop about one and a half tablespoons of the brownie mixture, flatten it in your palm, and gently press a well-dried maraschino cherry into the center. Carefully wrap the brownie around the cherry, sealing it completely, then roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat until all the cherries are nestled in their fudgy homes.
Step 4: Freeze for Easy Dipping
Place your brownie bombs on a parchment-lined tray and pop them in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes. Chilling firms them up, making them much easier to dip in chocolate without falling apart.
Step 5: Dip in Chocolate
While the bombs chill, melt your chocolate chips (and coconut oil, if using) in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy. Dip each brownie bomb into the chocolate, letting excess drip off before placing it back on the tray. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some sea salt or colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Step 6: Set and Enjoy
Let your Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs chill in the fridge just until the chocolate is set. Once they’re firm, they’re ready to wow everyone who takes a bite!
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Garnishes
A finishing touch of sprinkles or a pinch of flaky sea salt goes a long way here. Not only do they make each brownie bomb look extra festive, but they also add a lovely crunch or a pop of salty-sweet contrast with every bite.
Side Dishes
For an over-the-top dessert platter, pair these brownie bombs with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool, creamy sides balance the rich chocolate and make every bite feel even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
These treats are showstoppers on a pretty cake stand or tucked into mini cupcake liners for a polished look. For parties, try skewering them on lollipop sticks for easy grabbing, or arrange them in a gift box lined with tissue for a delightful homemade present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and fudgy for up to five days—if they last that long!
Freezing
These brownie bombs are perfect for making ahead and freezing. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep beautifully for up to one month and can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or thawed in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
While these are typically enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer a softer center, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. There’s no need to reheat them in the oven or microwave, as the chocolate coating may melt.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it—just make sure the brownies are fudgy and not too cakey for the best results when shaping the bombs.
What’s the best way to dry maraschino cherries?
After draining, lay the cherries out on a couple of paper towels and gently pat them dry. Removing as much moisture as possible prevents the brownie bombs from becoming soggy and helps the chocolate coating set better.
Can I use different types of chocolate for coating?
Definitely! Semi-sweet chocolate is classic, but you can experiment with dark chocolate for a richer taste, or white chocolate for a playful twist. Just be sure to melt it gently and use coconut oil if you want a super smooth finish.
Are Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs gluten-free?
They can be! Just use a gluten-free brownie mix and double-check that your frosting and chocolate chips are gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes, these are the ultimate make-ahead treat! Prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. They’re perfect for busy hosts who want a stress-free, impressive dessert.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to spoil yourself a little, I can’t recommend these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs enough. They’re the kind of treat that brings smiles, surprise, and a little bit of magic to any table. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
Print
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 brownie bombs 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs, a perfect bite-sized dessert combining rich brownie, luscious maraschino cherries, and a smooth chocolate coating. Ideal for holidays or any special occasion, these treats fuse the gooey texture of brownie with the sweet tartness of cherries, encased in a glossy chocolate shell.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on package)
- 20 maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup chocolate frosting
Chocolate Coating
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Toppings (Optional)
- Sprinkles
- Sea salt
Instructions
- Bake the Brownies: Prepare the brownies according to the package instructions, ensuring you follow the recommended baking time and temperature. Once baked, allow them to cool completely to room temperature to ensure easier handling.
- Prepare Brownie Mixture: Crumble the cooled brownies into a large bowl, removing any hard edges. Gradually mix in the chocolate frosting until the mixture is moist and holds together like dough, making it pliable enough to form into balls.
- Form Brownie Bombs: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the brownie mixture and flatten slightly in your palm. Press a maraschino cherry into the center, then wrap the brownie dough around the cherry and roll it into a smooth ball. Place each formed ball on a parchment-lined tray. Repeat until all brownie mixture and cherries are used.
- Freeze: Freeze the brownie bombs for 20 to 30 minutes until firm, which helps maintain their shape during chocolate coating.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips combined with the coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until completely smooth.
- Coat Brownie Bombs: Dip each brownie bomb into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment-lined tray. While the coating is still wet, decorate with sprinkles or a light pinch of sea salt if desired.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the coated brownie bombs until the chocolate is fully set and firm, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Once set, they are ready to serve or store.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are thoroughly dried to prevent excess moisture within the brownie bombs, which can affect texture and chocolate coating.
- These brownie bombs are perfect for holiday celebrations and gift-giving due to their festive look and rich flavor.
- You can store the brownie bombs frozen for up to one month, allowing easy preparation for future occasions.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake + Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie bomb
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
