We’ve always been fans of desserts that blend classic flavors in unexpected ways, and our Brownie and Cherry Pie Filling Recipe does just that. It pairs the rich, fudgy texture of homemade brownies with the bright, tangy burst of cherry pie filling for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
This easy twist on traditional baking brings together simple ingredients to create something truly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a quick indulgence, we’ll show you how to whip up this delightful dessert that combines comfort and innovation in every bite.
Ingredients
For our Brownie and Cherry Pie Filling recipe, we select high-quality, straightforward ingredients that blend the fudgy richness of brownies with the tart sweetness of cherry filling. Below, we organize them by category for ease, noting preparation specifics as needed.
Brownie Layer Ingredients
We start with the base, as it’s the foundation of this delightful dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (use a fine grain for even dissolution)
- 4 large eggs, beaten (fresh eggs work best for a fluffy texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure extract enhances flavor depth)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (high-quality for rich chocolate intensity)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (helps with slight rise)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (balances sweetness; use fine sea salt)
Cherry Pie Filling Ingredients
Next, we prepare the filling, which adds a burst of fruity tang. Gather these for a homemade touch:
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved (or 2 cans of cherry pie filling if using store-bought for convenience)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on cherry tartness)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons water for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed to brighten flavors)
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for a nutty undertone that complements cherries)
This selection ensures our recipe remains simple yet flavorful, using basic pantry staples for an effortless bake.
Required Equipment
To bring our Brownie and Cherry Pie Filling Recipe together seamlessly, we need a few essential tools that make preparation straightforward and efficient. Building on the ingredients we’ve selected, these items ensure precise measurements and even baking for the best results.
Basic Baking Tools
We’ll start with the core equipment for mixing and baking:
- Mixing bowls: Two medium-sized ones—one for dry ingredients and one for wet—to keep our brownie batter smooth and our cherry filling lump-free.
- Measuring cups and spoons: A set of these for accurately measuring flour, sugar, and other ingredients, as precision is key to achieving the perfect texture in our brownies.
- Whisk or electric mixer: A whisk for hand-mixing the brownie batter or an electric mixer for quicker blending, helping us incorporate air for a fudgy consistency.
Cooking and Baking Essentials
Next, for the actual cooking and assembly:
- Saucepan: A medium-sized one for simmering the cherry pie filling, allowing us to thicken the mixture evenly without burning.
- Baking pan: A 9×9-inch square pan (or similar) for our brownie base—grease it well to prevent sticking and ensure clean slices.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the cherry filling and folding ingredients, providing the control we need for a glossy finish.
- Oven thermometer: Optional but recommended for monitoring our oven’s temperature accurately, as baking brownies at the right heat prevents overcooking.
With this equipment in hand, we’re fully prepared to move from ingredients to the step-by-step process, making our recipe execution smooth and enjoyable.
Instructions
We guide you through creating our irresistible Brownie and Cherry Pie Filling with simple, step-by-step directions that ensure a perfect blend of fudgy brownies and tangy cherry goodness. Let’s transform those prepared ingredients and tools into a mouthwatering dessert that combines rich chocolate depth with bursts of fresh cherry flavor.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we measure and prepare all ingredients to streamline the process. Gather the brownie ingredients: melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter and set aside; crack 2 large eggs into a bowl; measure 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. For the cherry filling, pit and halve 2 cups of fresh cherries (or drain a 21-ounce can if using canned); measure 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and optional *1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. This preparation ensures everything is ready for seamless mixing and cooking.
Prepare the Brownie Batter
We mix the batter to achieve that signature fudgy texture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar, then whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and lightly creamy. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating well to incorporate air for a tender crumb. In another bowl, sift together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, stirring just until no streaks remain—the batter should be thick and glossy, promising a decadent chocolate base that pairs perfectly with the cherry topping.
Make the Cherry Pie Filling
Next, we create a luscious, thickened filling that highlights the tart sweetness of cherries. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of pitted and halved cherries, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon as the mixture simmers for 5-7 minutes until the cherries release their juices and the sauce thickens to a glossy, jam-like consistency. If using, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for an extra layer of nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly—the vibrant red filling will emit a tempting fruity scent that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Assemble the Pie
With components ready, we layer the dessert for optimal flavor fusion. Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and spread the brownie batter evenly across the bottom, using a spatula to smooth it into a uniform layer. Spoon the warm cherry pie filling over the batter, distributing it carefully to cover the surface without mixing—aim for about 1/2 inch of filling for balance. This assembly creates a visually appealing contrast of dark chocolate and bright cherries, ensuring each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Bake the Pie
We bake to perfection, transforming the raw layers into a golden, irresistible treat. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the assembled pan on the middle rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even cooking—test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the brownie layer; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. The pie will rise slightly and fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baking chocolate and cherries, signaling a dessert that’s fudgy inside and slightly crisp on top.
Cool and Serve
Finally, we cool the pie to set its structure and enhance its flavors. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour at room temperature, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for faster setting—the center will firm up while retaining its gooey appeal. Slice into 9 equal squares and serve as is, or top with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence; the combination of warm chocolate notes and juicy cherry bursts will delight your senses with every forkful.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Brownie and Cherry Pie Filling recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to streamline the process for busy days or special occasions. By planning ahead, we can preserve the rich, fudgy texture of the brownies and the tangy sweetness of the cherry filling without compromising flavor.
Preparing the Cherry Filling in Advance
We can make the cherry filling up to 2 days ahead to let the flavors meld beautifully. Start by following the steps from our earlier instructions: combine fresh or canned cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and optional almond extract in a saucepan. Cook until thickened, then cool completely. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it. This method ensures the filling retains its vibrant, tart-sweet profile, ready to top our brownies when needed.
Making the Brownie Batter Ahead
For the brownie base, we recommend preparing the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Mix the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt as outlined previously. Once blended into a smooth, glossy batter, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When we’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly—this helps achieve that perfect, fudgy consistency we love.
Assembling and Storing the Full Dessert
If we want to assemble the entire dessert ahead, we can layer the baked brownies with the cherry filling in a 9×9-inch baking pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. For longer storage, freeze the assembled pie for up to 1 month: wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm and gooey.
Storage Tips and Times
To help us track the best practices, here’s a quick reference table for make-ahead storage:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Filling | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate in airtight container | Use cold or warm gently on stovetop |
| Brownie Batter | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerate in covered bowl | Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking |
| Assembled Dessert | Up to 1 day | Refrigerate covered | Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes |
| Frozen Assembled Pie | Up to 1 month | Freeze wrapped tightly | Thaw in fridge overnight, then reheat as above |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our Brownie and Cherry Pie Filling remains a effortless, crowd-pleasing treat.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this brownie and cherry pie filling recipe with you, blending simple ingredients into a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s perfect for any gathering, offering that ideal mix of fudgy chocolate and tart cherries.
Try it out and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade desserts that bring people together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the brownie cherry pie dessert recipe about?
This unique recipe combines rich, fudgy homemade brownies with tangy cherry pie filling for a creative treat. It’s simple to prepare with basic ingredients, making it ideal for occasions like parties or family gatherings, blending comfort and innovation for an easy baking experience.
What ingredients are needed for the brownie layer?
For the brownie base, gather unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. These straightforward, high-quality items create a moist and chocolatey texture, ensuring a delicious result with minimal effort.
What ingredients go into the cherry pie filling?
The cherry filling requires fresh or canned cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and optional almond extract. This simple mix highlights the tart sweetness of cherries, providing a vibrant contrast to the brownies and adding a burst of flavor to the dessert.
What equipment is required to make this dessert?
You’ll need basic tools like mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or electric mixer, a medium saucepan for the filling, a 9×9-inch baking pan, and a spatula. These essentials ensure a smooth process and help achieve the perfect texture without advanced gear.
How do I prepare and bake the brownie cherry pie?
Start by mixing the brownie batter until fudgy, then cook the cherry filling in a saucepan. Layer them in a baking pan, bake at the recommended temperature for the specified time, cool completely, and serve warm or with toppings like whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cherry filling up to 2 days in advance and the brownie batter up to 24 hours ahead. Store both in the fridge to maintain freshness. For full assembly, refrigerate the baked dessert for up to 3 days or freeze for longer, with easy reheating instructions provided.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds to restore warmth and texture, keeping the dessert fresh and tasty.