Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely adore making chocolate raspberry brownies because they are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries. Each bite is an indulgent experience that balances sweetness with a hint of tang. I love observing how the vibrant raspberries visually contrast with the dark chocolate, making these brownies perfect for any occasion. They’re simple to prepare and only take about 20 minutes to bake, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that no one can resist. These brownies have become my go-to dessert for gatherings, and I can't wait to share them with you!
When I first combined chocolate and raspberries, I was amazed by how well their flavors complemented each other. During my first attempt at baking these brownies, I discovered that using fresh raspberries and high-quality chocolate truly elevates the taste. To prevent the raspberries from sinking, I recommend tossing them in a little flour before folding them into the batter; this little trick helps maintain that gorgeous swirl.
Over the years, I've experimented with different types of chocolate, but I always come back to rich dark chocolate for that decadent finish. The texture of these brownies is incredibly moist, and they cut beautifully into squares. I encourage you to serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that will impress anyone!
You Will Love These Brownies Because
- Decadent chocolate flavor paired with fresh tart raspberries
- Indulgent and moist texture that melts in your mouth
- Quick to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings
Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies
For the perfect brownie texture, it’s crucial to not overmix the batter. Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense, cakey brownies rather than the fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth texture we love. Gently folding in the fresh raspberries is key; this helps maintain their shape and ensures they remain juicy and tart against the chocolate.
Another important tip is to keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so start checking your brownies a minute or two before the recommended 20 minutes. You’re looking for slightly moist crumbs when a toothpick is inserted in the center. If it comes out with too much wet batter, they need a bit more time. Err on the side of underbaking slightly, as they will continue to firm up out of the oven.
Ingredient Insights
Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for achieving that deep chocolate flavor in your brownies. Look for a Dutch-processed cocoa powder, as it has a smoother, richer taste that complements the tartness of the raspberries beautifully. Also, ensure your butter is unsalted to maintain control over the sweetness and overall flavor profile of the brownies.
Fresh raspberries truly elevate this recipe, but if you're in a pinch, frozen ones can work as a substitute. If using frozen, do not thaw them beforehand; fold them in directly from the freezer to prevent the batter from becoming too watery. Remember, the tartness will remain, adding that delightful contrast to the chocolate without being overwhelmingly sweet.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
Make sure the raspberries are washed and dried thoroughly before adding them to the batter.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
Melt the Butter
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
Mix Ingredients Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out slightly moist.
Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream if desired.
Pro Tips
- For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter.
Storage Suggestions
These brownies are best enjoyed within the first couple of days, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To keep them fresh and fudgy, avoid cutting them until you're ready to serve. If necessary, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
If you want to make brownies ahead of time, consider freezing them. After cutting into squares, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour or warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.
Serving Ideas and Variations
These chocolate raspberry brownies can be served plain, but for a more indulgent treat, consider drizzling them with melted chocolate or topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream perfectly balances the warm, rich brownies and adds an extra layer of flavor with each bite.
For a twist on the original recipe, try incorporating nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans. They add a delightful crunch and pair well with both the chocolate and raspberries. Alternatively, you can experiment with other berries like blueberries or strawberries, adjusting the sweetness slightly based on the fruit's natural tartness.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but be aware that frozen raspberries may release more moisture, which can affect the texture.
→ How should I store leftover brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative?
Yes, you can use a sugar alternative, but this could change the texture and sweetness level.
→ Is there a way to enhance the flavor of chocolate?
Adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter can help to enhance the chocolate flavor!
Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
I absolutely adore making chocolate raspberry brownies because they are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries. Each bite is an indulgent experience that balances sweetness with a hint of tang. I love observing how the vibrant raspberries visually contrast with the dark chocolate, making these brownies perfect for any occasion. They’re simple to prepare and only take about 20 minutes to bake, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that no one can resist. These brownies have become my go-to dessert for gatherings, and I can't wait to share them with you!
Created by: Perrie Lawson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 brownies
What You'll Need
Brownie Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out slightly moist.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 4g