Chocolate Cherry Brownie Bites

I love chocolate chip cookies as much as the next person. But sometimes, a little fancier cookie option is required. 

Such was the case when I was to bring cookies for a new exhibit opening at the Vernon Filley Art Museum in Pratt. At about the same time, I saw a recipe for Chocolate Cherry Brownie Bites during an inevitable Facebook scroll. The recipe looked like a potential contender. They were pretty on the outside and had a hidden surprise - a maraschino cherry. They reminded me of those boxes of chocolate-covered cherries that invariably take up shelf space at discount stores during Christmas time. But I thought they could be equally appropriate as we approached Valentine's Day. 

 I ended up combining them with a couple of other small, bite-sized cookies - Peanut Butter Cup Cookies and Pecan Tassies. I arranged them on a heart-shaped platter that I'd gotten for Brent's and Susan's rehearsal dinner supper.

They would be a "Treat for your Sweet" this Valentine's Day. I am more into homemade gifts than spending beaucoup bucks on whatever's trendy this year. If you are too, give them a try!

Chocolate Cherry Brownie Bites

From Butter with a Side of Bread 

1 box brownie mix (9X13 size)

Eggs according to package directions 

Water according to package directions 

Oil according to package directions
1 - 10 oz. jar maraschino cherries, drained (reserve juice for frosting)
1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
5 Tbsp butter, softened to room temperature
3 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
2 Tbsp reserved maraschino cherry juice

 

Mix brownie mix according to package directions with the required oil, eggs and water. Using a cookie scoop, scoop the batter into a well-greased mini muffin pan. Bake brownie bites at 350° for about 13-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Immediately after removing the brownie bites from the oven, press an indention into each one, using the back of a 1/2 teaspoon measuring spoon. While the brownies are still warm, place 3 semi-sweet chocolate chips into each center. Let the chocolate chips sit for a few minutes until softened, then gently press a maraschino cherry on top of the melted chocolate in the center.

Let brownies cool completely. Carefully remove from muffin cups, then frost. To make the frosting, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, cream cheese and powdered sugar. Once the mixture is well combined, add the reserved cherry juice and beat until smooth. Frost the brownie bites using a decorator's tube, if desired.