Irresistible Small Batch Black Forest Brownies Recipe for Chocolate Lovers

Chocolate lovers rejoice as these small batch black forest brownies recipe bring decadence to a whole new level.

Rich cocoa meets luscious cherries in a compact dessert that packs serious flavor.

Every bite tells a delightful story of deep chocolate and sweet fruit harmony.

The small batch approach ensures each brownie is perfectly crafted and intensely delicious.

Dark chocolate creates a luxurious base that melts seamlessly with tart cherries.

Layers of indulgence await in this compact treat that’s perfect for intimate gatherings or solo dessert moments.

Prepare to savor a dessert that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Black Forest Brownies Ingredient List

• Butter: A rich, creamy base that provides moisture and depth to the brownie batter.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a soft, tender texture in the brownies.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the brownie's rich structure.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and deep brown color to the dessert.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps create the classic brownie texture.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the chocolate brownie base.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Cherries, Cherry Juice: Brings a classic Black Forest flavor and moisture to the brownies.
• Whipped Cream, Chocolate Shavings: Optional toppings that add a decorative and indulgent finish to the dessert.

Black Forest Brownie Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to 350F (175C).

Grab a small baking dish like a 6×6 inch pan or loaf pan.

Line it with parchment paper, letting some hang over the edges so you can easily lift out your delicious creation later.

Step 2: Create Brownie Magic

Grab a microwave-safe bowl and melt the butter until smooth.

Toss in sugar and whisk until everything looks well blended.

Drop in the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture looks light and dreamy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift cocoa powder into the wet mixture.

Add flour and salt.

Gently fold everything together, being super careful not to overmix.

You want your batter to look smooth but not beaten up.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Spread the batter evenly across your prepared pan.

Pop it into the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – you want a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Prepare Cherry Goodness

While brownies are cooling, drain the cherries.

Save 2 tablespoons of the juice for extra flavor magic.

Step 6: Final Delicious Assembly

Once brownies are totally cool, use a fork to poke small holes across the surface.

Drizzle the reserved cherry juice, letting it soak in.

Scatter drained cherries on top.

Add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle chocolate shavings if you’re feeling extra fancy.

Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Small-Batch Brownies

• Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined to maintain a tender, fudgy brownie texture without developing tough gluten.
• Reserve cherry juice and drizzle sparingly over cooled brownies to add flavor without making them soggy, ensuring perfect consistency.
• Use high-quality dark cocoa powder for intense chocolate flavor and rich, deep color in your small-batch brownies.
• Watch brownies closely and remove from oven when a toothpick shows moist crumbs, preventing dry or overbaked results.
• Garnish with fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings to transform simple brownies into an elegant dessert with minimal effort.

Creative Brownie Variations Here

• Gluten-Free Black Forest Brownies: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that maintains rich chocolate flavor.
• Vegan Chocolate Cherry Squares: Substitute butter with coconut oil, egg with flax egg, and use dairy-free dark chocolate. Top with coconut whipped cream for plant-based indulgence.
• Low-Sugar Black Forest Treat: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, swap cherries for sugar-free cherry preserves, and incorporate dark chocolate with high cocoa content for reduced sugar content.
• Keto-Friendly Brownie Bites: Use almond flour, replace sugar with erythritol, incorporate sugar-free chocolate, and garnish with fresh cherries and sugar-free whipped cream for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Black Forest Brownies Ideas

• Cherry Lover's Dream: Top the brownies with plump, juicy cherries and a generous swirl of fresh whipped cream for a decadent dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.
• Party-Perfect Slice: Cut into small, elegant squares and serve on a decorative plate with a light dusting of cocoa powder for an impressive presentation that wows guests.
• Ice Cream Companion: Warm the brownie slightly and pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, letting the cold, creamy texture contrast beautifully with the rich chocolate base.
• Dessert Wine Pairing: Complement the intense chocolate and cherry flavors with a small glass of sweet port or cherry liqueur for a sophisticated after-dinner treat.

Storing Black Forest Brownies Fresh

• Store these decadent brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other food odors.
• Wrap individual brownies or the entire batch in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Brownies will keep perfectly frozen for 2-3 months, maintaining their rich chocolate flavor and moist texture.
• If serving within 1-2 days, keep brownies covered at room temperature in a sealed container. Avoid leaving them out for extended periods, especially with the whipped cream topping.
• Always add fresh whipped cream and cherries just before serving to prevent sogginess. Remove toppings if storing brownies for longer periods to preserve their best quality.

FAQs

• What makes Black Forest Brownies different from regular brownies?

Black Forest Brownies combine rich chocolate brownie base with classic Black Forest cake elements like fresh cherries, cherry juice, and optional whipped cream, creating a decadent dessert that merges brownie and cake traditions.

• Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned?

Canned cherries work best for this recipe because they’re already pitted and have a consistent texture. Fresh or frozen cherries might release too much liquid and alter the brownie’s texture.

• How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Look for a toothpick with a few moist crumbs when inserted into the center. The edges should be slightly set, and the middle should look slightly underbaked – this ensures a fudgy, soft brownie texture.

Black Forest Brownies: Reasons to Enjoy

• Bake with Minimal Effort: Perfect for novice bakers seeking a simple, foolproof dessert that requires basic kitchen skills and few ingredients.
• Create Compact Dessert Delight: Ideal for small households or those wanting controlled portion sizes without sacrificing rich chocolate flavor.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows quick variations like adding extra toppings or adjusting cherry intensity to match personal taste preferences.
• Impress Without Stress: Delivers gourmet-style Black Forest experience through straightforward preparation that looks professionally crafted.

Small Batch Black Forest Brownies Recipe

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4.9 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Indulgent Black Forest Brownies bring German chocolate charm to classic dessert lovers. Rich cocoa, cherries, and whipped cream create a luxurious mini treat you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (56 grams) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (25 grams) cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour

Binding Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Toppings:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) canned or jarred cherries (drained, juice reserved)
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) cherry juice (from can)
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 6×6 inch or loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring extra overhang for easy brownie removal.
2. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then vigorously whisk in sugar until thoroughly blended. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly lighter in appearance.
3. Sift cocoa powder into the wet ingredients, then gently fold in flour and salt. Mix until ingredients are just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
4. Transfer batter to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 18-22 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
5. Allow brownies to cool completely within the pan. Meanwhile, drain cherries, reserving 2 tablespoons of their juice for additional flavor enhancement.
6. Once cooled, create multiple small holes across the brownie surface using a fork. Carefully drizzle reserved cherry juice, allowing it to penetrate the brownie.
7. Distribute drained cherries evenly over the surface. Optional: top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an indulgent finish. Serve and enjoy immediately for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

• Choose high-quality cocoa powder for richer, deeper chocolate flavor that elevates the entire brownie experience.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense brownies; gently fold ingredients until just combined for a tender crumb.
• Use room temperature egg for smoother batter integration and more consistent brownie texture.
• For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free baking blend, ensuring same measurement proportions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg