Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs

Introduction

Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are the perfect combination of indulgence and decadence, offering a rich, fudgy brownie center with the surprising burst of tart cherry and a smooth, glossy layer of chocolate coating it all. These bite-sized bombs are a dream come true for anyone who loves the marriage of chocolate and fruit. The soft, gooey brownie filling complements the sweet and tangy cherry, while the chocolate coating adds an extra level of richness that makes each bite irresistible.

These brownie bombs are a crowd-pleaser and hold a special place in my dessert repertoire. I first made them when I wanted to surprise my friends with something a little different, and they became an instant hit. The aroma of fresh brownies baking in the oven, mingled with the cherry filling, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. As the chocolate shell hardens, it forms the perfect crisp contrast to the soft interior, giving each bite a delightful texture.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are the ultimate treat when you’re craving something decadent but still want a fun, handheld dessert. They’re perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just as an indulgence for yourself. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream, they’ll leave everyone asking for more. If you want a dessert that’s equal parts showstopper and comfort, these brownie bombs are a must-try!

Perfect for:

Holiday parties and special occasions
Chocolate and cherry enthusiasts
Sweet gift ideas
Dessert tables and buffets
Family gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, cherries, and brownies creates an unforgettable taste sensation.
Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, these brownie bombs come together quickly and are simple to assemble.
Bite-Sized Perfection: These treats are the perfect handheld size, making them ideal for parties or casual snacking.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the chocolate coating or fill with different fruit for a unique twist.
Make Ahead: Brownie bombs can be made in advance, making them perfect for holiday baking or busy weeknights.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 20-24 brownie bombs
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-170 calories

Ingredients

For the Brownie Bombs:

1 box (18 oz) brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
1 jar maraschino cherries (about 10-12 cherries), drained and patted dry
¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for extra texture)

For the Chocolate Coating:

12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for smooth coating)

Ingredient Highlights:

Brownie Mix: A shortcut to make this recipe quick and easy, but still delivers a rich, fudgy texture.
Maraschino Cherries: Sweet and tart, they add a burst of flavor that complements the brownie perfectly.
Semisweet Chocolate: Offers a balanced sweetness and rich, smooth texture for the coating.
Chocolate Chips: Optional but add an extra bit of chocolaty goodness inside the bombs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Brownies:

Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Make the Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, usually combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package directions, typically 25-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before handling.

Form the Brownie Bombs:

Crumble the Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled, crumble them into small pieces in a large bowl.
Add the Cherries: Gently chop the maraschino cherries into small pieces. Add them to the crumbled brownies and mix until evenly distributed.
Form the Bombs: Scoop a small amount of the brownie mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into a ball. Press a small piece of cherry into the center and roll the brownie mixture around it to form a smooth ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cherries.

Prepare the Chocolate Coating:

Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
Coat the Brownie Bombs: Dip each brownie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely coated. Use a fork or spoon to remove it from the chocolate and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the Bombs: Place the chocolate-covered brownie bombs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.

How to Serve

Party Platters: Arrange the brownie bombs on a platter for an elegant and indulgent dessert display.
As a Gift: Package them in a decorative box for a sweet homemade gift.
With Coffee or Milk: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk to complement the rich chocolate flavors.
At Buffets: These bite-sized treats are perfect for dessert buffets or holiday spreads.

Additional Tips

Use a Cookie Scoop: A small cookie scoop ensures uniform brownie bombs and makes the process quicker.
Pat Cherries Dry: Make sure the maraschino cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the brownie mixture.
Chill the Bombs Well: The chocolate coating sets best when the brownie bombs are chilled for a sufficient amount of time.
Customize the Coating: Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, for a unique twist.
Add a Nutty Touch: For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the brownie mixture.

Recipe Variations

Peanut Butter Brownie Bombs: Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the brownie mixture for a rich, nutty twist.
Mint Chocolate Brownie Bombs: Use mint chocolate chips in the brownie mix and coat the bombs with dark chocolate.
Cherry Cordial Bombs: Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the brownie mixture for a boozy version.
Caramel Brownie Bombs: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate coating for a sweet finish.
Salted Caramel Brownie Bombs: Sprinkle sea salt on the chocolate coating for a salty-sweet contrast.
Dark Chocolate Coating: Use dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor.
Coconut Brownie Bombs: Roll the chocolate-covered brownie bombs in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
White Chocolate Coating: Try using white chocolate for a sweet and creamy exterior.
Chocolate Chip Brownie Bombs: Add mini chocolate chips to the brownie mixture for extra chocolate flavor.
Nutty Brownie Bombs: Incorporate chopped almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts into the brownie mix for added texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep the brownie bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the brownie bombs before coating them in chocolate. Once frozen, coat them in chocolate and refrigerate until the coating sets.
Thawing: Let the brownie bombs thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving if frozen.

Special Equipment

Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate smoothly.
Cookie Scoop: To easily portion the brownie mixture into uniform balls.
Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy removal and clean-up.
Fork or Spoon: To dip and remove the brownie bombs from the melted chocolate.
Cooling Rack: Helps the chocolate coating set without smudging.
Airtight Container: For storing the brownie bombs after they’ve been made.

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit and chop them. You may need to adjust the moisture level in the brownie mixture.
How can I keep the chocolate coating from cracking?
Ensure that the chocolate is smooth and fully melted before coating. Chill the brownie bombs before dipping to prevent the chocolate from cracking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the brownie bombs and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to coat in chocolate.
What type of chocolate should I use for coating?
Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate is recommended for a balanced sweetness, but you can use milk or white chocolate if preferred.
Can I add other fillings to the brownie bombs?
Yes, feel free to add fillings such as caramel, peanut butter, or marshmallow for added flavor.
How do I make the coating smoother?
Adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening to the chocolate helps it coat smoothly and evenly.
Can I use brownie mix instead of homemade brownies?
Yes, brownie mix works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
How can I decorate the brownie bombs?
After coating with chocolate, you can drizzle with caramel or sprinkle with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sea salt.
Can I make these without cherries?
Absolutely! You can skip the cherries or substitute with other fruit fillings like raspberry or strawberry.
Can I freeze the chocolate-coated brownie bombs?
Yes, you can freeze the chocolate-coated brownie bombs for up to 3 months. Let them thaw before serving.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are the ultimate indulgence, combining the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies with the sweet surprise of cherry filling, all encased in a smooth, glossy layer of chocolate. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, from the soft, melt-in-your-mouth brownie to the burst of juicy cherry and the irresistible chocolate coating that ties it all together.

What makes these brownie bombs truly exceptional is their perfect balance of sweetness and tang, creating a treat that satisfies all your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a personal dessert moment, these chocolate-covered delights are guaranteed to impress. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table.

These brownie bombs are sure to become a favorite, offering a delightful combination of nostalgic flavors with a luxurious twist. I can’t wait for you to experience this deliciously fun recipe! Be sure to share your creations and tag me on social media—seeing your personalized versions brings me so much joy! Enjoy every heavenly bite!