The Best Fudgy Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Brownie Recipe

Words cannot express how obsessed I am with this Raspberry Brownie recipe. These fudgy brownies are the best dessert to enjoy fresh raspberries, just as berry season winds down. These Raspberry Chocolate Brownies feature the perfect combination of fresh berries, a hint of orange zest and dark chocolate. One of the best parts, it’s a one bowl brownie recipe. Yes, you can make this recipe all in one pot!

If you love the sounds of this recipe and have a soft spot for baked goods or you’re a big fan of fun twists on brownie recipes, you MUST try these Small Batch Coffee Brownies!

What are Raspberry Chocolate Brownies?

Raspberry chocolate brownies are a delicious variation of traditional brownies that incorporate the flavours of chocolate, tangy raspberries and a little citrus zest to brighten up the chocolate.

Why Chocolate and Raspberry Work So Well Together

Chocolate and raspberry work well together because they create a delicious balance of flavours that complement each other. Here are a few of my favourite reasons why this combination is one of my favourites:

1. Contrast of Sweet and Tart: Chocolate is known for its sweetness, while raspberries have a natural tartness. When combined, the sweet and slightly bitter notes of chocolate beautifully contrast with the bright and tangy flavour of raspberries.
2. Textural Contrast: The texture of chocolate and raspberries also contributes to the appeal of this combination. Brownies, for example, often have a dense and fudgy texture, while raspberries are soft and juicy. The contrast between the smoothness of chocolate and the slight crunch of raspberry seeds or the delicate texture of the fruit itself adds an enjoyable textural element to the overall eating experience.
3. Classic Pairing: Chocolate and raspberries have been paired together in desserts and confections for a long time, creating a classic combination that has stood the test of time. This pairing has become ingrained in our culinary traditions and has gained popularity due to its widespread enjoyment.

Ultimately, their unique qualities work together to create a delightful and satisfying taste experience that many people, like me, find irresistible.

Why you’ll love these fudgy raspberry brownies…

As I mentioned above, this decadent chocolate dessert can be made in one bowl, so clean-up is a breeze! What you’ll also love about these cakey brownies is the incredible raspberry flavour combined with the subtle orange, which just takes classic brownies to the next level. Raspberries can be quite pricy at times at your local farmers market or local grocery store, so you can use frozen raspberries if you wish!

These delicious brownies can be enjoyed on their own, or with a scoop of ice cream and some added chocolate chunks, or chocolate syrup for a special occasion.

Other Raspberry Recipes You’ll Love

• Crunchy Raspberry & Almond Muffins
• Raspberry and White Chocolate Loaf Cake
• Raspberry and White Chocolate Cookies
• Raspberry & Thyme Margaritas
• Raspberry & Lime Gin and Tonic

The Secret to Moist Brownies

The secret to moist brownies lies in a few key factors. Here are my top tips I’ve learnt over the years that help achieve moist and delicious brownies everytime:

1. Proper Mixing: When preparing the batter, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense and dry brownies. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined, and you no longer see streaks of flour.
2. Right Amount of Fat: Adding enough fat to the brownie batter helps retain moisture. This usually comes from ingredients like butter or oil. Use the recommended amount of fat as stated in your brownie recipe for optimal moisture.
3. Avoid Overbaking: One of the most common reasons for dry brownies is overbaking. Remember that brownies continue to cook and firm up a bit even after you remove them from the oven. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time, and once a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to take them out. They will firm up as they cool.
4. Use the Right Pan: The type of pan you use can affect the moisture level of your brownies. A metal or glass baking pan is ideal as they conduct heat more evenly than dark or nonstick pans. This helps ensure the brownies bake evenly and retain moisture.
5. Add Moisturizing Ingredients: You can incorporate ingredients that add moisture to your brownie batter. For example, adding a tablespoon or two of sour cream, yogurt, or applesauce can make the brownies moist and tender.
6. Chocolate Quality: Using good quality chocolate or cocoa powder can enhance the flavour and moisture of your brownies. Higher cocoa butter content in chocolate contributes to a richer and moister texture.
7. Let Them Cool Properly: Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This cooling process allows them to set and develop their desired texture. Cutting them too soon can result in them falling apart and losing moisture.

Remember, different recipes may have specific instructions to achieve the desired moistness. It’s always a good idea to follow the recipe closely and make adjustments based on your preferences and the type of brownies you want to bake.

Raspberry Brownie Recipe Ingredients

• 1 stick of butter, melted
• 1 1/4 cups of sugar
• 1 tbsp of vanilla extract
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup of all purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp of salt
• 1/4 tsp of baking powder
• 3/4 cups of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup of fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, bitter dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips will work
• 1 tbsp of orange zest

How to make Raspberry Brownies

1. Preheat the oven to 350F and line an 8-inch square metal baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter. If you want to make this all in one bowl, use a large saucepan to melt the butter, remove it from heat and then combine the next steps in the saucepan.
3. Carefully pour the melted butter into a large mixing bowl. Next whisk in the sugar, eggs and vanilla.
4. With a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, we are doing to add the rest of the dry ingredients. Stir in the flour, salt, baking powder, and cocoa. Mix the chocolate mixture until well combined, scraping the bottom of the bowl. You can also use an electric mixer too.
5. Gently fold in the measuring cup of raspberries, chocolate chips and one tablespoon of orange zest.
6. Next, transfer the brownie batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean after being inserted into the middle of the crinkly top.
7. At the end of baking time, remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

How to Store Reheat Raspberry Brownies

To store and reheat raspberry brownies, follow these steps:

1. Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This helps them retain their moisture.
2. Storage: Once cooled, cut the brownies into desired portions. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can use a resealable plastic bag. Ensure the container or wrap is sealed properly to prevent air exposure.
3. Refrigeration: If you plan to store the brownies for a longer period, refrigeration is recommended. It helps keep them fresh for several days. Place the sealed container or wrapped brownies in the refrigerator.
4. Freezing (optional): If you want to store the brownies for an extended period, you can freeze them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Frozen brownies can last for up to 3 months.
5. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the raspberry brownies, you have a few options for reheating:
   • Room Temperature: If the brownies were stored at room temperature, you can simply let them come to room temperature again before eating. This method is suitable for those who prefer their brownies at room temperature.
   • Oven: Preheat your oven to around 300°F (150°C). Place the desired number of brownies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can dry out.
   • Microwave: If you prefer a quick reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10 to 15 seconds on medium power. Check the brownie’s temperature and repeat in short intervals if needed until it reaches the desired warmth.

Remember that reheating can slightly alter the texture of the brownies, and they might not be as moist as when they were freshly baked. However, these methods should help revive their flavors and make them enjoyable again.

To learn more about how to how to properly store brownies and other goods for maximum freshness, check out this post: How to Property Store Brownies

Can you Freeze Brownies?

Yes, you absolutely can! Click here to read all about the proper way to freeze bronwies for up to three months!

FAQ’s and Variations…

• For a deeper caramelized flavour, replace sugar with brown sugar.
• For a visual element, you can also add some white chocolate chips for a marble effect to your brownies!
• To really bring out the raspberry flavours, add a tablespoon of raspberry liqueur.
• Add some coffee flavours by adding 1 tablespoon of espresso powder