Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely adore these Chocolate Raspberry Brownies! Each bite delivers a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tangy raspberries that truly captivates the senses. I've perfected this recipe over the years, ensuring that the texture is just right – fudgy and melt-in-your-mouth with a burst of fruity flavor. Whether it's a cozy family gathering or a sweet afternoon treat, these brownies impress every time. And the best part? They come together in just under an hour, making them an easy yet indulgent dessert option.
I recall the first time I made these brownies for a friend's birthday. I decided to experiment by adding fresh raspberries to my classic chocolate recipe, and the results shocked me! The tart berries perfectly balance the sweetness of the chocolate, creating an unforgettable flavor profile. My friends couldn't get enough of them, and I was delighted by their enthusiastic reactions.
Over time, I learned that using quality ingredients, like high cocoa content chocolate and fresh raspberries, elevates the dish even further. I also recommend baking them in a lined pan to ensure easy removal and evenly cut squares. Trust me, these little tips make a big difference!
Why You'll Love These Brownies
- Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by tart raspberries
- Fudgy, moist texture that makes them irresistibly indulgent
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to celebrations
Perfecting the Fudgy Texture
Achieving the ideal fudgy texture in brownies requires a delicate balance of ingredients and mixing. By using a combination of melted butter and granulated sugar, you create a moist base that complements the addition of rich cocoa powder. Be sure to mix the batter until just combined—overmixing can introduce air bubbles and lead to a cakey texture, which is not what we want in a decadent brownie.
Another key tip is to ensure that the brownies are slightly underbaked. When you pull them out of the oven after 25 minutes, they should look set at the edges but may still appear soft in the center. This residual heat will continue to cook the brownies slightly as they cool, resulting in a perfect fudgy center.
Choosing and Addings Raspberries
Fresh raspberries play a crucial role in this recipe, providing that tantalizing burst of flavor and natural sweetness. When selecting raspberries, look for ones that are firm and plump, with a deep red color; avoid any that are mushy or have dark spots. It's essential to fold them in gently to maintain their shape and prevent them from breaking apart before they go into the oven.
If fresh raspberries aren't available, you can substitute with frozen ones. Just be sure to add them directly from the freezer to avoid excess moisture in the batter. However, be careful to adjust baking time slightly, as frozen raspberries can release more liquid during cooking.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your Chocolate Raspberry Brownies:
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (90g) fresh raspberries
Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start baking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chocolate Raspberry Brownies:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix wet ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Then, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
Combine mixes
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add raspberries
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, being cautious not to break them.
Bake
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly, and bake for 25 minutes.
Cool and slice
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares.
Enjoy your warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce!
Pro Tips
- For an extra raspberry kick, try adding a layer of raspberry jam on top of the brownie batter before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Chocolate Raspberry Brownies can be stored tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, although I often find they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just ensure they've completely cooled before wrapping to maintain their fudginess.
For make-ahead options, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the prepared baking pan and follow the normal baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked brownies on a busy day with minimal effort!
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are deliciously rich on their own, but you can elevate your dessert with a few simple serving suggestions. Try warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent sundae experience, or serve them alongside whipped cream and a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch.
Another delightful way to enjoy these brownies is to serve them with a dusting of powdered sugar and some fresh raspberries on top, enhancing both presentation and flavor. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat that balances the sweetness of the brownies with the warmth of your beverage.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding to the batter.
→ How should I store these brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
→ What is the best way to cut brownies?
Using a plastic knife or a sharp knife dipped in hot water can help achieve clean cuts.
Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
I absolutely adore these Chocolate Raspberry Brownies! Each bite delivers a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tangy raspberries that truly captivates the senses. I've perfected this recipe over the years, ensuring that the texture is just right – fudgy and melt-in-your-mouth with a burst of fruity flavor. Whether it's a cozy family gathering or a sweet afternoon treat, these brownies impress every time. And the best part? They come together in just under an hour, making them an easy yet indulgent dessert option.
Created by: Chantel Rivers
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 brownies
What You'll Need
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (90g) fresh raspberries
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Then, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, being cautious not to break them.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly, and bake for 25 minutes.
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares.
Extra Tips
- For an extra raspberry kick, try adding a layer of raspberry jam on top of the brownie batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g