If you’re searching for the ultimate mashup of rich, fudgy brownies and the sweet-tart pop of cherries, these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are the answer to your dessert dreams! Each bite delivers a luscious cherry hidden inside a gooey brownie core, all dressed up in silky chocolate with a playful crunch of sprinkles or nuts. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just a very lucky Tuesday, this treat is stunningly easy to assemble and always wows the crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the essentials for these treats is refreshingly simple—yet every ingredient packs a punch of flavor or texture, working together to create a decadent, crowd-pleasing delight. This lineup is proof you don’t need fancy or fussy items to achieve chocolate cherry bliss!
- Brownie Mix: Your favorite boxed brownie mix gives fudgy, reliable results and makes this recipe a breeze.
- Eggs, Water, and Oil: Included as per brownie mix directions; these create that signature chew and richness.
- Maraschino Cherries: The jewel-like heart of each bomb! Drain and pat dry for best results, as too much moisture can be tricky for chocolate dips.
- Cream Cheese (softened): Adds irresistible creaminess and helps bind the brownie crumbles into a smooth, rollable dough.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps the filling mixture set up beautifully.
- Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate Chips: Melted chocolate creates a glossy, flavorful coating that balances the sweetness inside.
- Coconut Oil or Vegetable Shortening: Just a touch helps the chocolate melt smooth and shiny, making dipping easy.
- Sprinkles or Crushed Nuts (optional): For a burst of color or crunch, don’t skip these fun finishing touches!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Step 1: Bake and Cool the Brownies
Begin by preparing your favorite boxed brownie mix as directed, baking it in a standard 9×13-inch pan. Let the brownies cool completely before moving on—warm brownies could turn your mixture into a sticky mess and melt your cream cheese!
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Filling
While the brownies are cooling, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until you have a smooth, sweet, and creamy spread. This mixture brings a lusciousness to the final truffle that makes every bite feel like a little celebration.
Step 3: Crumble and Combine
Once cooled, crumble the entire pan of brownies into a large mixing bowl. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! Add the cream cheese mixture and blend together until it becomes a thick, dough-like consistency that holds its shape when rolled—think edible playdough at its best.
Step 4: Wrap Each Cherry
Now for the magic: scoop a tablespoon of brownie dough, flatten it in your palm, and tuck a maraschino cherry in the center. Gently wrap the brownie mixture around the cherry, rolling into a neat ball so the cherry is fully hidden. Repeat until you’ve got a tray full of cherry-filled brownie surprises.
Step 5: Freeze for Easy Dipping
Transfer your brownie bombs to a parchment-lined tray and pop them in the freezer for about 20–30 minutes. This chill step ensures they’re firm enough to be dipped without falling apart—plus, the cold helps the chocolate shell set up beautifully.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring until fully melted and glossy. This bit of coconut oil helps the chocolate reach that perfect dippable texture and keeps the coating from cracking.
Step 7: Dip and Decorate
Working quickly, dip each frozen brownie bomb into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before returning it to the tray. While the chocolate is still wet, shower with your favorite sprinkles or crushed nuts for that crunch and color pop. Chill in the fridge until the chocolate is perfectly set.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Garnishes
The finishing touch is all about fun and flavor! A dusting of colorful sprinkles turns these brownie bombs into party-ready treats, while a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or almonds adds a more elegant crunch. If you want to go the extra mile, drizzle with white chocolate or add a light dusting of edible gold for a festive look.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic American diner vibe. For a more elevated presentation, serve alongside fresh berries or even a cherry compote to double down on those cherry notes. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of robust red wine also complements their rich, chocolatey flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your imagination lead the way! For parties, pile the bombs high on a tiered cake stand or arrange them around a bowl of cherries for a pretty centerpiece. Tuck them into mini cupcake liners for individual servings, or wrap them up in festive cellophane bags for the sweetest homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs store wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just stash them in an airtight container so they stay fresh, fudgy, and ready for whenever a chocolate craving strikes.
Freezing
If you’d like to make these ahead, they freeze beautifully! Place the finished, chocolate-coated bombs in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving and they’ll taste as decadent as the day you made them.
Reheating
These aren’t meant to be served warm, but if you prefer a slightly softened center, leave them at room temperature for about 20 minutes before enjoying. This brings out the flavors and makes the centers even creamier—without melting the gorgeous chocolate shell.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade recipe, feel free to use it here. Just avoid brownies that are extra gooey or have a thick fudgy middle, as the texture might be trickier to roll with the cream cheese mixture.
What’s the best way to drain and prep the cherries?
After draining, blot each maraschino cherry with a paper towel until it’s as dry as possible. This prevents any extra moisture from seeping out and spoiling the chocolate coating or the brownie layer.
Can I use white chocolate or milk chocolate for the coating?
Absolutely! Both white and milk chocolate pair beautifully with cherries and brownies. If you choose white chocolate, you can also tint it with food coloring for a festive look.
How do I keep the chocolate coating smooth and shiny?
Adding coconut oil or vegetable shortening to your chocolate chips before melting is the key. It helps thin the chocolate, making it easier to dip and giving you a beautiful glossy finish once set.
Are these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs suitable for making ahead during the holidays?
These brownie bombs are a holiday lifesaver! Make them a day or two in advance and store in the fridge, or freeze longer-term for stress-free holiday dessert planning—they taste just as incredible either way.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to take that first bite into a homemade Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bomb and experience the fudgy chocolate, the surprise cherry center, and the decadent shell all at once. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to something truly special, this recipe is a guaranteed way to spread a little extra joy. Don’t wait—give these irresistible bites a try and let the smiles roll in!
