Chocolate Cranberry Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, incorporating the tartness of cranberries with the rich, fudgy goodness of chocolate. These brownies offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, enhanced by a moist and chewy texture. Ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a special treat, Chocolate Cranberry Brownies are both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
1.Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup dried cranberries (preferably sweetened)
For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional):
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Garnish (Optional):
- Additional dried cranberries
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Sea salt flakes
2.Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Batter:
a. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). – Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal, or grease the pan lightly with non-stick spray.
b. Mix Wet Ingredients: – In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir until well combined. – Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. – Mix in the vanilla extract.
c. Combine Dry Ingredients: – In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
d. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
e. Fold in Cranberries: – Gently fold in the dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
2. Bake the Brownies:
a. Pour Batter into Pan: – Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
b. Bake: – Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake to maintain a fudgy texture.
c. Cool: – Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional):
a. Heat Cream: – In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
b. Melt Chocolate: – Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to soften.
c. Combine: – Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy. Add the tablespoon of unsalted butter and stir until melted and fully incorporated.
d. Drizzle: – Once the brownies are completely cooled, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Garnish and Serve:
a. Add Garnishes: – Sprinkle additional dried cranberries, chocolate shavings, or a light dusting of sea salt flakes over the ganache for an elegant finish.
b. Slice and Serve: – Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares.
c. Enjoy: – Serve the brownies at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
3.Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
- Even Mixing: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to facilitate smooth mixing and prevent lumps in the batter.
- Prevent Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the brownies towards the end of the baking time. Slight underbaking ensures a fudgy texture.
- Cranberry Selection: Sweetened dried cranberries balance the bitterness of the cocoa. If using unsweetened, consider adding a touch more sugar.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the brownies to cool completely before slicing helps them set properly, making them easier to cut without crumbling.
- Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
4.Variations
- White Chocolate Cranberry Brownies: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and add a white chocolate ganache topping.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Brownies: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a spiced kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup as a substitute for regular all-purpose flour.
- Vegan Brownies: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and choose vegan chocolate chips.
- Dairy-Free Ganache: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free chocolate chips to make the ganache dairy-free.
5.Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Sugars: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
6.Background & Popularity
Chocolate Cranberry Brownies have emerged as a beloved variation of the traditional brownie, offering a sophisticated blend of rich chocolate and tart cranberries. This combination caters to a wide range of palates, appealing to both chocolate aficionados and those who enjoy a tangy contrast in their sweets. The addition of cranberries not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant color and chewy texture, elevating the overall eating experience.
The use of cranberries in desserts has been popular for centuries, particularly during the fall and winter seasons when cranberries are in peak season and associated with holiday traditions. Integrating them into brownies aligns with the trend of infusing classic desserts with seasonal ingredients, making them a popular choice for holiday parties, potlucks, and festive gatherings.
Moreover, the versatility of Chocolate Cranberry Brownies allows for numerous adaptations, accommodating various dietary preferences and creative culinary explorations. Whether opting for a gluten-free, vegan, or nutty version, these brownies can be tailored to suit different needs without compromising on taste or texture.
Their enduring popularity is also fueled by the ease of preparation and the universally loved combination of chocolate and cranberries. As home bakers continue to seek innovative ways to enhance traditional recipes, Chocolate Cranberry Brownies stand out as a testament to the delightful possibilities that arise from simple yet impactful ingredient pairings.
Gluten-Free Desserts: The Ultimate Sweet Indulgence Awaits!Whether you’re an experienced baker looking to expand your dessert repertoire or a novice eager to create a crowd-pleasing treat, Chocolate Cranberry Brownies offer a perfect blend of indulgence and sophistication. Their rich flavors, appealing textures, and beautiful presentation make them a standout addition to any dessert table.