Chocolate Raspberry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Raspberry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Whenever I bake Chocolate Raspberry Brownies, it feels like I’m creating a little piece of heaven in my kitchen. The combination of rich chocolate and tangy raspberries makes for a decadent treat that satisfies every sweet tooth. I fell in love with this recipe because it’s surprisingly simple and yields such impressive results. It’s the perfect dessert to share with friends or enjoy on a cozy evening in. Plus, the vibrant colors make them visually appealing, adding a charming touch to any table presentation.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:19:19.981Z

My adventure with these Chocolate Raspberry Brownies began when I wanted to impress my guests during a weekend gathering. The balance of chocolate and raspberry is what makes these brownies heavenly. I learned that incorporating fresh raspberries not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful burst of color. Every bite is a perfect harmony of sweet and tart, which is such a treat!

The first time I baked them, I was amazed at how the aromas filled my kitchen, making it impossible to resist. A tip I discovered is to bake them just until the center sets—this ensures a fudgy texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Letting them cool completely before slicing is key to achieving that perfect cut!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate goodness with a tangy twist from fresh raspberries
Easy to make, yet they look and taste gourmet
Perfectly fudgy texture that melts in your mouth

      

Mastering the Chocolate Base

Creating the perfect chocolate base is key to achieving brownies that are rich and flavorful. When melting the butter, do so over low heat to ensure it doesn’t burn; this helps in developing that deep chocolate flavor when combined with sugar. Stir the mixture gently until glossy, and make sure it’s not too hot before adding the eggs. If the temperature is too high, you risk scrambling the eggs, which can ruin the texture.

Incorporating the dry ingredients requires finesse. Use a sifter for the cocoa powder, flour, and salt to aerate them, leading to smoother brownies. When folding these ingredients into the chocolate mixture, do so gently to avoid overmixing, which can create a tougher texture. Look for a batter that is just combined—small streaks of flour are acceptable and will disappear during baking.

Why Fresh Raspberries Shine

Fresh raspberries not only add a burst of color but also introduce a delightful tartness that balances the richness of chocolate. When folding them into the batter, take care to handle them gently to keep them whole. If you prefer a more intense raspberry flavor but want to maintain the integrity of the brownies, consider puréeing half of the raspberries and swirling them into the batter before adding the whole ones.

If fresh raspberries aren’t available, you can substitute them with frozen raspberries; just be aware that they might release more juice during baking, making the brownies slightly moister. If you use frozen berries, do not thaw them beforehand, as this can cause them to break down too much. Adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter can help with excess moisture.

Cooling and Serving Tips

Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes is crucial for achieving clean cuts. If you try to slice them while they’re still warm, they may crumble. Once cooled, lift them out of the pan using parchment paper for easier handling. A sharp knife or a bench scraper will give you clean edges. For an added treat, dust them with powdered sugar just before serving for an eye-catching finish.

These brownies can also be customized with toppings to enhance their presentation. Drizzling melted chocolate over the top or adding a dollop of whipped cream can elevate them for special occasions. If you're looking ahead, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container, where they can last up to three months.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the delicious Chocolate Raspberry Brownies:

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you start mixing to make the process smoother.

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Sugar

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.

Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined.

Add Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, and chocolate chips if using, being careful not to smash the berries.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes. The brownies should look set but still soft in the middle.

Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delicious brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. Also, feel free to swap the raspberries for other fruits like cherries or blackberries if desired.

Ingredient Tips

Choosing quality chocolate, whether in chips or bars, can make a significant difference in the final product. Opt for chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60% for a rich flavor that stands up to the tartness of the raspberries. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil for a similar texture and rich flavor. Just make sure to melt the coconut oil completely before mixing it with the sugars.

When it comes to sugar, granulated sugar is essential for achieving that classic brownie sweetness. However, you can replace some of it with brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor and extra moisture. If you are looking to make these brownies a little healthier, consider using a natural sweetener like maple syrup; just adjust the other liquid ingredients accordingly to maintain the right consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too cakey, it’s typically due to overmixing or adding too much flour. Aim for a fudgy texture by mixing until just combined and measuring your flour accurately. If you do end up with a more cake-like brownie, consider turning them into a parfait by layering them with whipped cream and additional raspberries to add moisture back in and create a delightful dessert.

On the other hand, if your brownies appear too gooey after baking, it could be a sign they need more time in the oven. Keep a close eye on the baking time and use a toothpick test: it’s ready when the toothpick comes out with only a few moist crumbs. If they are underbaked, place them back in the oven for a few minutes while checking frequently to avoid drying them out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain them before adding them to prevent excess moisture in the brownies.

→ How do I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They pair wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.