Black Forest Cherry Fudge Brownies with Mascarpone Cream Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve perfectly clean slices, place the cooled brownies in the refrigerator for at least one hour before cutting.

Using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut will ensure the fudge doesn't drag, resulting in sharp, clean edges that showcase the layers of cherry and chocolate.

If you prefer a more intense chocolate experience, fold in a handful of dark chocolate chunks into the batter along with the cherries.

This adds an extra layer of texture and bite, complementing the softness of the fruit pockets. Ensure the chunks are high-quality to maintain the integrity of the flavor profile throughout the bake.

Variations

• Spiced Cherry Brownies: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground cloves to the cherry mixture while simmering to introduce a warm, aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the dark chocolate.
• Nutty Cherry Brownies: Fold in a half cup of toasted, chopped hazelnuts or walnuts along with the cherries to add a crunchy texture that contrasts with the fudgy base of the brownies.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezer

The brownies can be frozen without the mascarpone topping for up to one month; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Reheat

Bring to room temperature before serving; do not reheat with the mascarpone topping applied.

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

If you have already applied the mascarpone cream, the brownies must be stored in the refrigerator to keep the dairy safe and fresh. Consume within three days for the best quality and texture of the topping.

You can prepare the cherry filling up to two days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. The brownie batter can also be baked one day ahead. For the best experience, whip the mascarpone cream and assemble the topping just before serving to ensure the cream remains light, airy, and fresh.

Serving ideas

Serve these brownies at room temperature to allow the chocolate to reach its full flavor potential.

Place the brownies on a dark ceramic platter to contrast with the white mascarpone cream, and consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of sophistication if desired for a formal gathering.

These brownies pair exceptionally well with a strong espresso or a small glass of dessert wine. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the richness of the fudge, while the fruit notes in the wine harmonize with the kirsch-soaked cherries, making it a perfect conclusion to a refined dinner menu.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Black Forest Cherry Fudge Brownies with Mascarpone Cream

Prep 15 minCook 26 minRest 30 minTotal 1 h 11 minServes 9

Ingredients

• 2 cups pitted dark sweet cherries
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp kirsch cherry brandy
• 1 batch seventy percent dark chocolate brownie batter
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp dark chocolate shavings for serving

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted dark sweet cherries, granulated sugar, and kirsch cherry brandy. Simmer the mixture over medium heat until the cherries soften and the liquid becomes slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely before incorporating it into the brownie batter.
2. Gently fold the prepared kirsch-soaked cherry mixture into the dark chocolate brownie batter until just combined. Pour the batter into a parchment-lined 8x8-inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 26 minutes, until the eggs reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) in the center and the cherries form syrupy pockets.
3. While the brownies cool, whip the cold mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl until soft peaks form. Once the brownies are cooled, dollop the whipped mascarpone cream over the surface and sprinkle with fresh dark chocolate shavings before slicing and serving.

Contains: gluten, eggs, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

4.5 g

Carbohydrates

38 g

Fat

24 g

Fiber

2.5 g

Sugar

28 g

Sodium

95 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.