Raspberry Brownies

Raspberry brownies are the perfect marriage of rich chocolate and tart raspberries, making them a must-try treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. These brownies boast a fudgy, moist texture thanks to the combination of dark chocolate and butter, while the fresh raspberries provide a pop of fruity flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly. Traditionally, brownies are an American creation, deeply rooted in the baking culture of the United States, and they continue to reign supreme as a popular dessert item across various occasions. Whether enjoyed as a delightful dessert at home, served at gatherings, or even enjoyed as a quick snack, raspberry brownies are sure to impress.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Raspberry Brownies

Complete Ingredients List

• 200 g dark chocolate
• 200 g unsalted butter
• 275 g caster sugar
• 4 medium eggs (or 3 large)
• 150 g plain flour
• 50 g cocoa powder
• 300 g raspberries
• 150 g chocolate chips

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you’re looking to adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions or personal preferences, there are numerous substitutions you can make:

• Dark Chocolate: You can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter taste or use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan option.
• Butter: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegetable shortening for a dairy-free alternative.
• Caster Sugar: For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol for a low-calorie version.
• Plain Flour: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Eggs: For a vegan alternative, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, resting for 5 minutes per egg).

For a creative twist, feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

How to Make Raspberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). As the oven warms, prepare your 9″x9″ square tin by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your brownies will remove easily once they’re baked, and minimizes any mess.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a saucepan, combine the dark chocolate, unsalted butter, and caster sugar. Place the pan over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure the chocolate doesn’t burn. Continue stirring until the mixture is entirely melted and smooth. Once melted, transfer it to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period is crucial as it prevents the eggs from cooking when added.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After the chocolate mixture has cooled, it’s time to incorporate the eggs. Add the eggs one at a time into the chocolate mixture, making sure to stir well after each addition. This step helps achieve that perfectly smooth batter that brownies are known for. Once all the eggs are combined, sift in the plain flour and cocoa powder, stirring until the mixture is well incorporated.

Step 4: Add Raspberries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 2/3 of the raspberries into the batter. The final step is to pour the brownie mixture into your prepared tin. Sprinkle the remaining raspberries and chocolate chips on top, creating an inviting topping that guarantees an explosion of flavor with each bite. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. The brownies should be set around the edges but still a little soft in the center. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely in the tin.

Serving Suggestions for Raspberry Brownies

How to Serve Raspberry Brownies

Your raspberry brownies can be served warm or at room temperature—both are delicious. When ready to serve, carefully lift the brownies from the tin using the edges of the parchment paper and place them on a cutting board. For beautiful presentation, slice the brownies into squares or rectangles. For an extra touch, dust the brownies with powdered sugar or cocoa powder to enhance their visual appeal.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

Raspberry brownies are delicious on their own but can be elevated with various toppings. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh mint leaves can also add a refreshing touch. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or raspberry coulis can enhance both taste and presentation.

Storing & Preserving Raspberry Brownies

Best Storage Methods

To store your raspberry brownies, ensure they are completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them for longer, refrigerating them will extend their freshness up to a week. For long-term storage, they can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

When reheating brownies, it’s best to do so in a microwave for short intervals (10-15 seconds) until warm. This method helps maintain the fudgy texture. If they have been frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips for Perfect Raspberry Brownies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid dense brownies.
2. Incorrect Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary; always use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
3. Using Old Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking powder, flour, and chocolate; expired ingredients can lead to ineffective results.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Chocolate Quality: Always use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor; opt for good brands for a richer taste.
• Raspberry Freshness: Use fresh raspberries when available, but if you’re using frozen, make sure not to thaw them completely to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
• Baking Time: Check your brownies a couple of minutes before the baking time is up. Overbaking can cause a dry texture.

Fun Variations of Raspberry Brownies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Halloween-themed raspberry brownies can include orange zest or food coloring to create a festive vibe. You can also experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon or espresso powder for an interesting flavor profile.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

To cater to various dietary preferences, consider the following adjustments:

• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs, and use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate.
• Paleo or Keto: Substitute sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener, use almond flour instead of plain flour, and omit chocolate chips or use sugar-free options.

FAQs

What If My Raspberry Brownies Don’t Turn Out Right?

If your brownies are too dry, this could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. If they are too gooey, try baking them for a little longer next time. Always stick to the times in the recipe as closely as possible but also trust your instincts with your oven’s characteristics.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! Raspberry brownies can be made a day ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will maintain their deliciousness for when you need them.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

Feel free to swap out the chocolate for white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter dessert. Additionally, if you can’t find fresh raspberries, frozen options work just as well, though your brownies may be slightly moister.

In summary, raspberry brownies offer a delightful dessert option that combines rich chocolate flavor with the tangy taste of raspberries. Whether for a holiday, special gathering, or just a personal treat, these brownies are sure to satisfy your cravings. With just a few adjustments, you can tailor the recipe to meet dietary needs while maintaining the essence of this indulgent delight. Happy baking!

Print