When you think of decadent desserts, Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs should be at the top of your list. These bite-sized brownie truffles are everything a dessert lover dreams of—fudgy, rich, fruity, and wrapped in a luscious chocolate shell. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday, a birthday, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this easy-to-make treat checks all the boxes. In this article, you’ll learn everything from how to make these brownie bombs using a few simple ingredients to how to add creative twists like whiskey-soaked cherries or different coatings.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Cherry Pie Bombs Dessert Recipe for another delightful cherry-filled treat.
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What Are Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs?
A Sweet Fusion of Brownies and Cherries
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are bite-sized dessert balls made from crumbled brownies mixed with chocolate frosting and wrapped around a juicy maraschino cherry. After shaping, they’re dipped into melted chocolate or almond bark to form a rich, candy-like coating. Each bite delivers a gooey center with a surprise cherry in the middle, making them feel indulgent yet playful.
Think of it as the best of both worlds: the bold richness of brownies fused with the juicy pop of cherries—all wrapped in a smooth chocolate coating. It’s like a truffle and a chocolate-covered cherry had a dessert baby.
Why They’re the Perfect Bite-Sized Dessert
These brownie bombs are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or wrap them in cellophane as thoughtful homemade gifts. Because they’re made with store-bought ingredients like boxed brownie mix and canned frosting, even beginner bakers can pull off this show-stopping dessert.
They’re:
- Easy to make ahead
- Perfectly portioned
- Fun to decorate and customize
Don’t miss our Dreamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe if you’re into luscious, creamy desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cherry Brownie Bombs
Creating these delicious treats doesn’t require complicated baking skills. You’ll need just a few pantry staples—plus your favorite brand of maraschino cherries and chocolate coating.
Boxed vs. Homemade Brownies: Which Is Better?
This recipe shines thanks to its flexibility. While boxed brownie mix (like Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker) offers convenience and consistent results, homemade brownies work great too. Just make sure your brownies are chewy, not cakey—they hold together better during shaping.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Boxed Brownie Mix | Quick, easy, reliable texture | Less customization |
| Homemade Brownies | Can adjust flavor and richness | Takes longer, risk of crumbling |
Choosing the Best Cherries and Chocolate Coating
The type of cherry matters more than you might think. Maraschino cherries are traditional—they add a bold, sweet pop that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie.
Prefer a more natural flavor? Opt for cherry pie filling (just make sure it’s thick), or even chocolate-covered cherries if you’re going all out.
As for the coating, almond bark is the go-to—it melts smoothly and hardens quickly. But you can substitute it with chocolate chips mixed with a little coconut oil or shortening.
Discover great ideas like our Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe if you’re craving more chocolate-cherry combos.
Optional Boozy Twist: Whiskey-Soaked Cherries
Want to kick things up a notch for the adults? Soak your maraschino cherries in Crown Royal or bourbon overnight. Pat them dry before wrapping them in brownie batter to keep the truffle shape intact. The result? A deliciously spiked brownie bomb that doubles as a party conversation starter.
Check out our Boozy Cherry Bombs for more festive spiked treats.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Making these gooey, chocolatey bites is easier than you’d think. With just a few ingredients and a little chill time, you’ll have a tray of wow-worthy treats ready to impress.
Baking and Cooling the Brownies
Start by baking your brownies according to the box instructions. For most mixes, that means combining the mix with vegetable oil, water, and eggs, then baking at 350°F in a 9×13 pan for around 25–30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Avoid overbaking! You want chewy brownies that hold together—too dry, and they’ll crumble during shaping.
Let the brownies cool completely before moving on. This is crucial. Warm brownies will melt the frosting and turn everything into a sticky mess.
Creating the Brownie-Cherry Balls
Once cooled, crumble the brownies into a large mixing bowl. Add in your whipped chocolate frosting—start with half the can, mix, then add the rest. Stir until evenly combined and the mixture holds together like cookie dough.
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it slightly. Press a dried maraschino cherry in the center and fold the brownie mix around it. Roll into a smooth ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Repeat until all the mix is used—this should yield about 24 brownie bombs.
Don’t miss our Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites for another holiday-worthy finger food dessert.
Refrigerate the brownie balls for at least 1 hour to firm up before dipping.
Dipping and Setting in Chocolate Coating
While the balls chill, melt your chocolate almond bark (or chocolate chips + 1 tsp coconut oil) in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between rounds until smooth.
Using a fork, dip each chilled ball into the chocolate. Let the excess drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper.
You can top them with:
- Sprinkles
- Crushed nuts
- Drizzle of white chocolate
- Crushed peppermint for a holiday vibe
Refrigerate until the chocolate sets.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
- Dry your cherries well. Moisture can prevent the chocolate from setting properly.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized brownie balls.
- If your mixture is too soft, refrigerate it briefly before shaping.
- For ultra-smooth coating, stir 1 tsp of coconut oil into the melted chocolate.
Check out our Frosted Coffee Brownies if you’re into bold brownie flavors.
Variations and Flavor Twists You Should Try
These brownie bombs are incredibly flexible. You can make them suit any occasion or flavor craving with just a few changes.
White Chocolate Coating or Peppermint Crunch
Want a more elegant or festive vibe? Swap the almond bark for:
- White chocolate melts – adds a creamy vanilla touch
- Mint chocolate – perfect for winter holidays
- Candy cane pieces – sprinkle before the coating sets
This version works especially well for Christmas dessert trays or Valentine’s Day surprises.
Cherry Pie Filling vs. Maraschino Cherries
If you’re out of maraschino cherries, cherry pie filling can work, but you’ll need to:
- Chill the filling first
- Use a thicker cherry or two small ones together
- Be gentle when wrapping to prevent leaking
Alternatively, try chocolate-covered cherries as your center for a truly indulgent surprise.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives
Need to make this recipe allergy-friendly or plant-based?
- Use gluten-free brownie mix and vegan frosting
- Replace almond bark with dairy-free chocolate coating
- Choose cherries with no artificial dyes
Looking for more allergy-conscious ideas? Discover our Vegan Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies for a wholesome holiday option.
Storage, Freezing, and Make-Ahead Tips
These brownie bombs are perfect for prepping ahead, making them ideal for parties, holidays, and gift giving.
How Long Do They Last in the Fridge?
Store your finished brownie bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Let them sit at room temp for about 10–15 minutes before serving so the centers soften slightly.
Freezer Instructions for Holiday Prep
You can freeze these brownie bombs for up to 3 months. Here’s how:
- Flash freeze them on a baking sheet
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving
Add fresh drizzle or toppings just before presenting if you want them to look bakery-fresh.
Reheating or Serving at Room Temp
These are best served cold or room temp. Reheating isn’t recommended because it may melt the chocolate shell and make them too soft.
Serving Ideas and Occasions for Cherry Brownie Bombs
Holiday Dessert Trays & Gift Boxes
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are festive, flavorful, and super easy to wrap or display. Add them to a:
- Holiday cookie tray
- Christmas dessert platter
- Valentine’s Day treat box
- Thanksgiving sweet sampler
Place them in mini cupcake liners for presentation or wrap them in clear cellophane tied with ribbon for edible gifts.
Don’t miss our Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread if you’re assembling a full holiday baked goods basket.
Valentine’s Day or Anniversary Treats
These cherry-stuffed chocolate bombs practically scream romance. Their gooey centers and glossy chocolate shell make them ideal for:
- DIY Valentine’s gift boxes
- Anniversary date night desserts
- Romantic dinners at home
For extra flair, drizzle pink chocolate on top or use heart-shaped sprinkles.
Pairing with Coffee, Wine, or Ice Cream
Pair these brownie bombs with:
- Espresso or cappuccino for a café-style dessert
- Red wine or port for an indulgent evening treat
- Vanilla ice cream for a sundae-style presentation
Their fudgy texture and cherry burst hold up beautifully with rich drinks or creamy desserts.
FAQs About Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Can I use cherry pie filling instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, but it’s trickier. Cherry pie filling is softer, so use a thicker cherry or double up. Chill the filling beforehand and be careful when rolling to prevent leaking.
What’s the best way to dip brownie balls in chocolate?
Use a fork or dipping tool. Drop the brownie ball into melted chocolate, roll it around, lift with a fork, and gently tap off excess. Then place on parchment paper to set.
Can I substitute almond bark with chocolate chips?
Yes! Use chocolate chips plus 1 tsp of coconut oil or shortening to achieve a smoother dip that hardens like almond bark.
Can I make these without a boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely. Homemade brownies work fine—just make sure they’re chewy, not cakey, so the crumbled mix holds together with frosting.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Brownie Bombs Again and Again
Whether you’re a busy baker or a dessert perfectionist, Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs give you that “wow” factor with very little effort. From their fudgy center to the hidden cherry surprise, every bite is a party in your mouth. They’re make-ahead friendly, freezer-safe, and endlessly customizable.
So next time you’re prepping for a special occasion or just want something indulgent and fun, these brownie bombs are your go-to dessert. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.
Looking for more ideas like this? Check out our Mini Cherry Cheesecakes for another fruity, chocolate-friendly treat.
PrintChocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are rich, bite-sized brownie truffles filled with juicy maraschino cherries and coated in smooth melted chocolate. Perfect for holidays, parties, or gift boxes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownie bombs 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box (18.3 oz) chewy fudge brownie mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 can (12 oz) whipped chocolate frosting
- 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 18 oz chocolate almond bark (or chocolate chips with coconut oil)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions using oil, water, and eggs. Bake and allow to cool completely.
- Crumble the cooled brownies into a large mixing bowl. Add the whipped chocolate frosting and mix until well combined.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion 1.5 tablespoons of brownie mixture. Flatten slightly and place a maraschino cherry in the center. Fold and roll into a ball.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Melt the chocolate almond bark in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Dip each brownie ball into the melted chocolate, let excess drip off, then place back on parchment paper.
- Chill until the chocolate is set. Serve or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Ensure cherries are patted dry before wrapping to prevent leaks.
- You can use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix—just make sure they’re chewy.
- Use a teaspoon of coconut oil with chocolate chips for a smooth coating if not using almond bark.
- Store in fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie bomb
- Calories: 338
- Sugar: 39g
- Sodium: 101mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 14mg







