Brownie Cherry Pie Filling Recipe

We’ve always been fans of desserts that blend classic flavors in unexpected ways, and our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling recipe is no exception. It’s a delightful mash-up of rich, fudgy brownies and tangy cherry pie filling that creates a mouthwatering treat perfect for any gathering.

This easy-to-make recipe draws from timeless American baking traditions, offering a fresh twist that’ll have your family asking for seconds. We’re confident you’ll love how simple ingredients transform into something truly irresistible.

Ingredients

In our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling recipe, we select straightforward, premium ingredients that blend the decadent fudgy texture of brownies with the vibrant tartness of cherry pie filling, making this dessert a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

For the Brownie Base

To create our rich, fudgy brownie base, we start with these essential ingredients, listed in the order they are typically mixed for optimal results:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, to ensure a moist and tender crumb.
2 cups granulated sugar, for that signature sweetness that balances the chocolate intensity.
4 large eggs, at room temperature, to incorporate air and achieve a perfect rise.
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted, as the heart of our deep, chocolatey flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure and high-quality, to enhance the overall aroma.
1 cup all-purpose flour, measured and leveled, providing structure without overwhelming the fudginess.
½ teaspoon salt, to amplify the chocolate notes and balance sweetness.

For the Cherry Pie Filling

4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved, as the star ingredient for their juicy, tart burst.
¾ cup granulated sugar, adjusted based on cherry sweetness, to create a syrupy consistency.
2 tablespoons cornstarch, dissolved in water, serving as a reliable thickener for the perfect gel.
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed, to add a bright acidity that prevents the filling from becoming overly sweet.
½ teaspoon almond extract, for a subtle nutty undertone that elevates the cherry flavor without overpowering it.

Tools and Equipment

To prepare our irresistible Brownie Cherry Pie Filling recipe with precision and ease, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment. These items ensure that our baking process is efficient and helps achieve the perfect fudgy texture and vibrant cherry flavors. Below, we’ve listed the key tools in the order they’ll be used, highlighting any specific features for optimal results.

Mixing Bowls: We start with two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining the brownie batter and another for the cherry filling. Opt for sturdy, heat-resistant glass or stainless steel bowls to handle both mixing and potential warming of ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our brownie base and cherry mixture, so use a set of standard measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, etc.) and spoons. We recommend precise, BPA-free plastic or metal sets to avoid errors that could affect the dessert’s balance of sweetness and tartness.
Whisk and Rubber Spatula: A medium whisk is essential for blending the cocoa powder and eggs into a smooth brownie batter, while a heat-resistant rubber spatula helps fold in the flour without overmixing. These tools ensure our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling maintains its signature fudgy consistency.
Saucepan: For preparing the cherry pie filling, a 2-quart saucepan with a heavy bottom is ideal to evenly cook the cherries and cornstarch mixture. This prevents scorching and allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Baking Pan: A 9-inch pie dish or square baking pan is key for assembling and baking our dessert. Choose a non-stick version for easy release, ensuring the brownies and cherries bake evenly to a golden finish.
Oven and Oven Thermometer: A standard oven preheated to 350°F is required for baking. To guarantee accuracy, use an oven thermometer—it’s a simple way to avoid underbaked or overcooked results, keeping our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling recipe foolproof.
Cooling Rack: Once baked, transfer the pie to a wire cooling rack to allow even cooling. This tool prevents sogginess and helps the flavors set, making slicing and serving a breeze.

By having these tools ready, we seamlessly transition from measuring our premium ingredients to creating a show-stopping dessert that combines classic baking techniques with fresh, vibrant tastes.

Instructions

Now that we have gathered our premium ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through creating our irresistible Brownie Cherry Pie Filling with straightforward, step-by-step precision.

Prepare the Brownie Batter

To start our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling, begin by combining the dry and wet ingredients for a rich, fudgy base. Follow these steps:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch non-stick baking pan to ensure even baking.
In a medium mixing bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until fully liquefied and aromatic.
Add 2 cups of granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor depth.
In another bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt to avoid lumps and promote a velvety texture.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula, stirring just until combined for a thick, chocolatey batter that forms the heart of our dessert.

Make the Cherry Filling

Next, we craft the tangy, vibrant cherry filling that complements the fudgy brownie base in our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling. This step ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine 4 cups of fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and halved), 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, stirring constantly for 5 minutes until the cherries release their juices and the mixture simmers.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then add it to the saucepan and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the filling thickens to a glossy, jam-like consistency.
Remove from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon of almond extract for a subtle nutty note that elevates the cherries’ natural tartness.
Let the filling cool for 10 minutes, allowing it to set slightly while retaining its fresh, fruity aroma that will burst with flavor in every bite.

Assemble the Pie

With our components ready, it’s time to layer everything for our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that promises a show-stopping dessert.

Pour half of the prepared brownie batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula to form a solid base layer about ½-inch thick.
Spoon the cooled cherry filling over the batter, distributing it uniformly and leaving a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow during baking.
Top with the remaining brownie batter, gently spreading it to cover the cherry layer completely for a sealed, decadent finish that locks in the flavors.
Use a knife to swirl the layers lightly, creating beautiful marbled patterns that enhance the visual appeal and ensure every slice delivers a mix of fudgy brownie and juicy cherries.

Bake the Pie

Finally, we bake our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling to golden perfection, transforming the assembled layers into a warm, irresistible treat with a crisp exterior and gooey center.

Place the assembled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter, ensuring the brownies are set yet fudgy.
Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even heat distribution, monitoring closely to avoid overcooking and preserve the dessert’s signature moist texture.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack for at least 20 minutes to allow the pie to firm up, making it easier to slice while the aromas of chocolate and cherries fill the air.

Make-Ahead Instructions

One of the beauties of our Brownie Cherry Pie Filling recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare components in advance to save time without sacrificing that irresistible fudgy texture and tangy cherry burst. Below, we outline make-ahead steps for the brownie batter, cherry filling, and full assembly, ensuring your dessert remains fresh and flavorful.

Preparing the Brownie Batter Ahead

We suggest making the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance for optimal results. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a richer base that enhances the overall dessert.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, flour, and salt as per the main recipe steps.
Once mixed into a thick batter, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to soften slightly, then stir briefly to restore its smooth consistency before proceeding with assembly.

Making the Cherry Filling in Advance

The cherry filling can be prepared ahead to lock in its vibrant, tangy sweetness—we love how this step intensifies the almond extract’s subtle nutty notes.

Cook the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract in a heavy-bottomed saucepan until thickened, following the recipe’s instructions.
Allow the filling to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat for 2–3 minutes before using, stirring to prevent sticking and ensure it integrates seamlessly with the brownie batter.

Assembling and Storing the Full Pie

For ultimate convenience, we can assemble the entire Brownie Cherry Pie Filling ahead and bake it later—this method keeps the layers distinct while preserving that gooey center.

Layer the brownie batter and cherry filling in the non-stick baking pan as directed in the main steps, but stop before baking.
Cover the assembled pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and let it stand for 10 minutes. Preheat your oven as specified, then bake according to the recipe for a golden, perfectly set exterior.

To maintain quality, always store make-ahead components in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. If baking from chilled, add 5–10 minutes to the baking time to ensure even cooking—use an oven thermometer for accuracy. This approach not only streamlines your prep but also guarantees a crowd-pleasing treat every time.

Conclusion

We’ve loved sharing this Brownie Cherry Pie Filling recipe as it’s a simple way to elevate your baking game. It’s perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends, blending rich flavors that always impress.

Next time you’re in the kitchen, give it a try and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your dessert lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brownie Cherry Pie Filling?

Brownie Cherry Pie Filling is a delightful dessert that layers rich, fudgy brownies with tangy cherry pie filling, inspired by classic American baking. It’s an easy-to-make treat perfect for gatherings, combining simple ingredients like cocoa powder, cherries, and sugar for a balance of gooey and fruity flavors that everyone loves.

What ingredients are needed for this recipe?

You’ll need basic ingredients for the brownie base, such as unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. For the cherry filling, gather fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. These premium, straightforward items create a crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort.

How do I prepare the brownie batter?

Start by melting butter and mixing in sugar and eggs until smooth. Add cocoa powder, vanilla extract, flour, and salt to form a thick batter. This simple process takes just minutes and ensures a fudgy base for your Brownie Cherry Pie Filling.

How do I make the cherry filling?

Cook cherries with sugar and lemon juice in a saucepan until juicy, then thicken with cornstarch and stir in almond extract for flavor. This quick step creates a tangy filling that pairs perfectly with the brownie layer, adding vibrant texture to the dessert.

What tools are required to bake this dessert?

You’ll need medium mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, rubber spatula, heavy-bottomed saucepan, non-stick baking pan, oven thermometer, and a cooling rack. These essentials ensure precise preparation and even baking for the best results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The cherry filling can be made and refrigerated for up to three days, with gentle reheating before use. Assemble the full dessert ahead and refrigerate for up to eight hours before baking for convenience.

How should I store leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the best texture, reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving to maintain that gooey brownie and fresh cherry flavor.