Name: Decadent Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 (4 brownies)
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Unsalted butter - Using unsalted lets you control the salt level, but honestly, if you only have salted butter, just use that and skip adding the salt later. I've done it both ways and can barely tell the difference.; Canned/jarred cherries - I use the cherries packed in syrup from the baking aisle, not maraschino cherries (too artificial) or fresh (too much work for a quick dessert). The juice from the can becomes this amazing cherry soak for the brownies.; Cocoa powder - Go for the good stuff here if you can. Dutch-processed gives that really deep chocolate flavor, but regular works fine too. Just don't use hot chocolate mix by mistake like I did once in college (disaster).; Whipped cream - You can totally use the stuff from a can if you're in a hurry. But if you've got an extra minute, whipping up heavy cream with a splash of vanilla makes these taste even more special.

Indulge in the decadent delight of Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies, a treat that’s as irresistible as it is easy to make. Picture a rich, fudgy brownie base adorned with cherries soaked in their sweet syrup, topped off with a heavenly cloud of whipped cream. These brownies were born out of a craving for a chocolate-cherry fix without the fuss of a full-blown cake. The beauty of this recipe lies in its small-batch nature, ensuring you have just enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without the temptation of leftovers lingering in the kitchen.

I still remember the time I whipped up these delightful brownies for my sister on a particularly tough day, and the magic they worked in turning her frown upside down. The combination of chocolate and cherries never fails to bring joy and comfort, making these brownies a go-to for impromptu gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply as a midweek pick-me-up. Whether you’re looking to impress your date with a special dessert or treat yourself to a little luxury, these Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, dive into a world of chocolatey bliss with every bite!

Quick Benefits

Easily customizable with optional additions like kirsch, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for variety and personal preference
Perfect portion control with small-batch size, ideal for intimate gatherings or spontaneous dessert cravings
Quick and easy to make, requiring minimal effort but yielding impressive results for a sophisticated yet comforting treat
Versatile serving options for various occasions, from date nights to impromptu gatherings, ensuring a delightful experience every time

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for satisfying sudden cravings or unexpected guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rich and Decadent: Indulge in a fudgy brownie base topped with boozy-tasting cherries and a cloud of whipped cream for a sophisticated dessert.
Small Batch: Enjoy the perfect portion size without having tempting leftovers tempting you for days.
Versatile: Customize the recipe with variations like adding kirsch or cherry liqueur, chocolate chips, or a hint of cinnamon for different flavor profiles.
Comforting Yet Sophisticated: The combination of fudgy brownie, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.
Perfect for Entertaining: Serve as a fancy date night dessert or as a delightful finish to a dinner party that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead: Brownies keep well at room temperature for a few days, or freeze a double batch of just the brownies for emergencies.
Tips for Perfection: Refrigerate the brownies before adding toppings for a fudgy texture, sweeten cherries if needed, and experiment with almond extract for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients for Decadent Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies

Unsalted butter – Using unsalted lets you control the salt level, but honestly, if you only have salted butter, just use that and skip adding the salt later. I’ve done it both ways and can barely tell the difference.
Canned/jarred cherries – I use the cherries packed in syrup from the baking aisle, not maraschino cherries (too artificial) or fresh (too much work for a quick dessert). The juice from the can becomes this amazing cherry soak for the brownies.
Cocoa powder – Go for the good stuff here if you can. Dutch-processed gives that really deep chocolate flavor, but regular works fine too. Just don’t use hot chocolate mix by mistake like I did once in college (disaster).
Whipped cream – You can totally use the stuff from a can if you’re in a hurry. But if you’ve got an extra minute, whipping up heavy cream with a splash of vanilla makes these taste even more special.

How to Make Decadent Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies

Step 1: Prepare oven and pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking dish with parchment paper, allowing for overhang.

Step 2: Make brownie batter

Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in sugar until combined. Add egg and vanilla extract, whisk until smooth and slightly lighter in color.

Step 3: Add dry ingredients

Incorporate cocoa powder, flour, and salt into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Bake brownies

Evenly spread the batter in the prepared pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Prepare cherries

Once the brownies have cooled, drain the cherries and save 2 tablespoons of the juice. Keep aside.

Step 6: Assemble and serve

After the brownies have cooled, use a fork to poke small holes on top. Drizzle reserved cherry juice over the surface and let it soak in. Place drained cherries on top, followed by whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired. Serve promptly.

Storage Tips

Once you have assembled the small-batch black forest brownies, it is best to enjoy them immediately as the toppings of cherries and whipped cream are best served fresh. The brownies on their own can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. However, once the cherries and whipped cream are added, it is recommended to consume them promptly to maintain the quality of the toppings. If you happen to have leftover brownies with toppings, you can refrigerate them, but note that the whipped cream may not retain its desired texture the next day.

It is not advisable to freeze the assembled brownies as the cherries and whipped cream may not freeze well and could alter the texture and taste of the dessert. However, if you wish to have brownies on hand for later, you can make a double batch of just the brownies and freeze them without the toppings. For the fudgiest texture, refrigerate the brownies for about an hour before adding the cherries and whipped cream to enhance the overall taste and experience of the small-batch black forest brownies.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have unsalted butter on hand, using salted butter is a suitable substitution. Just skip adding additional salt to the recipe. This adjustment won’t significantly affect the overall taste of the brownies. For the cocoa powder, while Dutch-processed cocoa provides a deep chocolate flavor, regular cocoa powder works well too. Avoid using hot chocolate mix, as it won’t give the desired chocolate intensity.

If you prefer a shortcut, you can use cherry pie filling instead of canned cherries packed in syrup. This swap will save you time and effort without compromising the overall cherry flavor. Additionally, if you’re short on time, using whipped cream from a can is a convenient option. However, for a more elevated taste, consider whipping heavy cream with a splash of vanilla. This homemade whipped cream will enhance the dessert’s overall richness and flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These small-batch Black Forest brownies are perfect for a cozy date night at home. Serve them in individual dessert dishes with an extra dollop of whipped cream on the side for a touch of elegance. For an extra indulgent experience, warm the brownies slightly before topping them to create a delightful hot/cold sensation that will elevate your dessert game.

Impress your guests at a small dinner party by assembling these Black Forest brownies right before serving to ensure the whipped cream stays light and fluffy. For a festive twist during the holidays, add a hint of cinnamon to the brownie batter for a warm spice note that pairs beautifully with the cherries. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a casual night in, these decadent brownies are sure to be a hit with chocolate and cherry lovers alike.

FAQs for Decadent Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using salted butter is fine, just skip adding extra salt to the recipe.

How can I make these brownies more boozy-tasting like Black Forest cake?

You can add a splash of kirsch or cherry liqueur to the cherry juice for a boozy Black Forest flavor.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time and store them for later?

The brownies on their own can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container. Once topped with cherries and whipped cream, they should be eaten immediately. Leftovers with toppings can be refrigerated, but the whipped cream won’t be as nice the next day.

How can I achieve the fudgiest texture in these brownies?

For the fudgiest texture, refrigerate the brownies for about an hour before adding the toppings.

Conclusion

Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies are truly a delightful treat that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a cozy night in, surprise a friend in need of a pick-me-up, or simply satisfy your own chocolate cravings, these brownies are the perfect solution. The combination of rich fudgy brownie, tangy cherries, and luscious whipped cream creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and elegant.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with these Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies! Consider adding a splash of cherry liqueur for that extra Black Forest twist, throwing in some chocolate chips for more decadence, or sprinkling a hint of cinnamon for a festive touch. The versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to your preferences and experiment with different flavor variations.

So go ahead and treat yourself to a batch of these Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies. Whether you savor them with a loved one on a special occasion or whip them up on a whim for a mid-week indulgence, these brownies are sure to bring joy and deliciousness to any moment. Enjoy the process of baking and the delight of savoring each bite of these delightful treats!

Decadent Small-Batch Black Forest Brownies

Indulge in fudgy Black Forest brownies topped with boozy cherries and whipped cream – sophisticated, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 brownies)

Ingredients

Unsalted butter – Using unsalted lets you control the salt level, but honestly, if you only have salted butter, just use that and skip adding the salt later. I’ve done it both ways and can barely tell the difference.
Canned/jarred cherries – I use the cherries packed in syrup from the baking aisle, not maraschino cherries (too artificial) or fresh (too much work for a quick dessert). The juice from the can becomes this amazing cherry soak for the brownies.
Cocoa powder – Go for the good stuff here if you can. Dutch-processed gives that really deep chocolate flavor, but regular works fine too. Just don’t use hot chocolate mix by mistake like I did once in college (disaster).
Whipped cream – You can totally use the stuff from a can if you’re in a hurry. But if you’ve got an extra minute, whipping up heavy cream with a splash of vanilla makes these taste even more special.

Instructions

Prepare oven and pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking dish with parchment paper, allowing for overhang.
Make brownie batter: Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in sugar until combined. Add egg and vanilla extract, whisk until smooth and slightly lighter in color.
Add dry ingredients: Incorporate cocoa powder, flour, and salt into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Bake brownies: Evenly spread the batter in the prepared pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely in the pan.
Prepare cherries: Once the brownies have cooled, drain the cherries and save 2 tablespoons of the juice. Keep aside.
Assemble and serve: After the brownies have cooled, use a fork to poke small holes on top. Drizzle reserved cherry juice over the surface and let it soak in. Place drained cherries on top, followed by whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired. Serve promptly.