Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are a decadent dessert that combines fudgy brownies, sweet cherries, and a smooth chocolate coating. These indulgent treats are perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you want to wow your guests with a show-stopping sweet.
Why You Will Love Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
- Rich and Decadent: Fudgy brownies, chocolate frosting, and cherries create an irresistible flavor combination.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: Their glossy chocolate coating makes them as beautiful as they are delicious.
- Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in a box for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
- Fun to Make: A creative and hands-on recipe that’s enjoyable to assemble.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make them ahead of time and store for future indulgence.
Ingredients Notes for Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
- 1 box brownie mix (plus the ingredients required to make it): Choose your favorite boxed brownie mix for the fudgy base.
- 3/4 cup chocolate frosting: Acts as a binder to form the brownie balls and adds extra moisture.
- 15 oz almond bark: Melts smoothly and creates a glossy coating for the bombs.
- 1 can cherry pie filling or maraschino cherries: Provides a sweet, juicy center. Drain cherries well to prevent sogginess.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan (for brownies)
- Mixing bowl
- Cookie scoop (optional for even portioning)
- Wax paper or parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting almond bark)
- Fork or dipping tool (for coating the bombs)
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
1. Bake the Brownies
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
- Let the brownies cool completely. Avoid overbaking to ensure they remain soft and fudgy.
2. Make the Brownie Mixture
- Crumble the cooled brownies into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 3/4 cup of chocolate frosting and mix until the consistency resembles that of cake pops. The mixture should hold together easily but not be overly sticky. Add more frosting if needed.
3. Form the Brownie Balls
- Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the brownie mixture (a cookie scoop works great for this). Roll it into a ball.
- Make a small hole in the center of the ball and place one cherry from the pie filling into the hole.
- Cover the cherry by folding the brownie mixture around it, sealing it completely. Add a small amount of extra mixture if necessary.
- Repeat with the remaining brownie mixture and cherries.
4. Chill the Balls
- Place the formed brownie bombs on a wax paper-lined tray and freeze for about 20 minutes to firm them up.
5. Coat with Chocolate
- Melt the almond bark according to package instructions. Stir until smooth.
- Working one at a time, dip each brownie bomb into the melted almond bark, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Use a fork or dipping tool to lift the bomb out, tapping gently to remove excess chocolate.
- Place the coated bombs on wax paper to cool and harden completely.
6. Serve
- Once set, serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Arrange the brownie bombs on a decorative plate or tiered tray for a stunning presentation.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- White Chocolate Coating: Use white almond bark for a lighter, sweeter coating.
- Cherry Liqueur: Soak cherries in cherry liqueur for an adult twist on this treat.
- Decorative Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the bombs for a professional finish.
Helpful Notes
- Drain Cherries Well: Excess liquid can cause the brownie balls to become too moist. Pat cherries dry before using.
- Smooth Coating: Melt almond bark in short intervals and stir frequently to prevent overheating.
- Even Coating: Use a fork to dip and tap off excess almond bark for a clean finish.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Martha Stewart: “Line your tray with wax paper for easy cleanup and perfect presentation.”
- Ina Garten: “Always use room-temperature frosting for smooth mixing and even texture.”
- Claire Saffitz: “Freeze the brownie balls before dipping to make them easier to handle and coat.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use homemade brownies?
Absolutely! Homemade brownies work perfectly as long as they’re soft and fudgy.
2. Can I use chocolate chips instead of almond bark?
Yes, but add 1–2 teaspoons of coconut oil to melted chocolate chips to ensure a smooth coating.
3. What if my brownie mixture is too sticky?
Chill the mixture for 10–15 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
4. Can I use a different filling?
Yes! Try caramel, peanut butter, or Nutella for a unique twist.
5. How far in advance can I make these?
You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are a delightful, indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress everyone who tries them. Enjoy making (and eating) these festive treats!