Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I can hardly resist the combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries, especially when they come together in these decadent brownies. The moment I took my first bite, I was enchanted by the depth of flavors and the delightful contrast between the fudgy texture and the juicy raspberry bursts. Perfect for a cozy evening or a gathering with friends, these brownies are not just a treat; they’re a way to celebrate life’s sweet moments.
While perfecting my recipe for these Chocolate Raspberry Brownies, I experimented with different types of chocolate. I found that using a mix of dark and semi-sweet chocolate created the ideal depth of flavor. Plus, adding fresh raspberries not only enhances the taste but adds a beautiful contrast in color, making them visually appealing.
I recommend letting the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares; this helps them maintain their structure and ensures that each bite is rich and fudgy. A sprinkle of sea salt on top really elevates the overall experience, highlighting the chocolate and raspberry flavors beautifully.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly fudgy texture paired with tart raspberry sweetness
- Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies your cravings
- Perfect for sharing during celebrations or family gatherings
Perfecting the Fudgy Texture
To achieve that coveted fudgy texture in these brownies, it's essential to avoid overmixing the batter once you've incorporated the dry ingredients. Overmixing can introduce too much air and lead to a cake-like texture rather than the dense fudginess we desire. Mix just until the flour is incorporated, and the batter appears glossy and thick.
Another crucial factor is the baking time. Keep a close eye on the brownies during the final minutes of baking. When the edges are set and the center looks slightly underbaked but not wet, they’re ready to come out. The residual heat will continue to cook the brownies as they cool.
Selecting and Storing Ingredients
Opting for high-quality chocolate and fresh raspberries can elevate your brownies' flavor significantly. When selecting chocolate chips, consider using a semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer taste that balances well with the tartness of the raspberries. It’s best to use fresh raspberries, but if they are not available, frozen raspberries can be a suitable substitute; just be sure to fold them in gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
To store your brownies, allow them to cool completely and then keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will stay fresh for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Make sure to use fresh raspberries for the best flavor!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Melt Butter and Sugar
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
Mix in Eggs and Vanilla
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in the eggs and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Fold in Raspberries and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and chocolate chips, creating a thick batter.
Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful touch.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a swirl of raspberry jam on top of the brownie batter before baking.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your brownies come out too dry, it may be because they were over-baked. To avoid this, start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Use a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs still clinging to it, indicating a fudgy texture. If you mistakenly bake them too long, consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream to balance the dryness with creaminess.
Conversely, if your brownies come out too gooey, ensure that you have accurately measured your ingredients. Too much sugar or eggs could lead to an overly wet batter. If you find that the center remains liquid even after the suggested baking time, you’ll need to bake them a little longer until they firm up, but be careful not to cross into dry territory.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate raspberry brownies shine on their own, but they can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful aesthetic and extra sweetness. If you're feeling indulgent, serve them warm with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a scoop of vanilla ice cream atop each square.
For gatherings, consider slicing them into bite-sized squares for a perfect dessert platter treat. Pair your brownies with fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. You could even turn them into a sundae by layering ice cream, brownie chunks, and raspberry sauce!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well; just don’t thaw them before adding to the batter.
→ How should I store the brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I use instead of butter?
You can use coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce as a butter substitute for a lighter version.
Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
I can hardly resist the combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries, especially when they come together in these decadent brownies. The moment I took my first bite, I was enchanted by the depth of flavors and the delightful contrast between the fudgy texture and the juicy raspberry bursts. Perfect for a cozy evening or a gathering with friends, these brownies are not just a treat; they’re a way to celebrate life’s sweet moments.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in the eggs and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and chocolate chips, creating a thick batter.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a swirl of raspberry jam on top of the brownie batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g