Brownies with Raspberry Swirl

Name: Brownies with Raspberry Swirl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 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; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Collection

I absolutely love making brownies, and this Raspberry Swirl version has become a go-to in my kitchen. The combination of rich chocolate brownie base and tart raspberry swirl creates a delightful contrast that satisfies my sweet tooth. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Whether it's for a weekend treat or a special occasion, these brownies never fail to impress. I often find myself experimenting with different fruit swirls, but this raspberry one holds a special place in my heart.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:21:34.573Z

When I first tried brownies with a raspberry swirl, I was blown away by the burst of tart flavor against the chocolaty goodness. It was an instant classic for me! Over the years, I’ve perfected the recipe, ensuring that the brownie stays moist and fudgy while the raspberry adds a refreshing zing.

One tip I've learned is to use fresh raspberries if possible, as their natural sweetness and tartness really shine through. If you have extra time, making a simple raspberry compote enhances the swirl even more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with tangy raspberry.
Fudgy texture that satisfies any chocolate lover's cravings.
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings.

Understanding the Brownie Base

The key to a great brownie lies in the balance of its ingredients. The unsalted butter not only adds richness to the brownies but also contributes to that lovely fudgy texture we crave. Be sure to melt the butter gently, either in the microwave or on the stove, until glossy but not bubbling, as overheating can alter the final consistency. The sugar plays a dual role: sweetening the brownies and helping create a shiny top that adds to the visual appeal.

Using both granulated sugar and eggs increases moisture in the batter, resulting in a chewier end product. When mixing, aim for a smooth and glossy batter without overmixing, as this can lead to a cakier texture. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, feel free to substitute half of the cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate. This small change can elevate the brownies, making them even richer.

Mastering the Raspberry Swirl

Making the raspberry swirl is crucial for achieving that delightful contrast in flavors. Cook the raspberries on medium heat, allowing them to break down gradually. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, stirring occasionally. If your raspberries are particularly tart, you can adjust the sugar level during cooking to balance the flavor. A thickened raspberry mixture is essential for a successful swirl; it should hold its shape slightly when dropped into the batter.

If fresh raspberries aren’t available, frozen ones work perfectly fine. Just remember to thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mixing with the sugar and lemon juice. The lemon juice is not only a flavor enhancer but also helps preserve the raspberries’ vibrant color. This swirl technique can be applied to other fruits like strawberries or cherries, allowing you to customize the recipe to your taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful brownies:

Brownie 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
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Raspberry Swirl Ingredients

1 cup fresh raspberries
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your brownies:

Prepare the Raspberry Swirl

In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, approximately 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Make the Brownie Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.

Combine and Swirl

Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8x8 inch pan. Drop spoonfuls of the raspberry mixture on top of the batter and use a knife to swirl it in gently.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

Your brownies are ready to be devoured! Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Pro Tips

For an added texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts on top before baking.

Serving and Storage Tips

These brownies are best enjoyed at room temperature, where their fudgy texture can truly shine. After they cool completely, cut them into squares with a sharp knife for clean edges. For serving, I recommend a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the tartness of the raspberry swirl beautifully. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a decorative finish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them; simply wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving, and they'll taste just like fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when making brownies is overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture. To avoid this, check for doneness at the 20-minute mark; the brownies should look set around the edges but still slightly moist in the center. Remember, they will continue to cook as they cool, so it's better to err on the side of underbaking.

Another issue is not allowing the raspberry mixture to cool sufficiently before adding it to the batter. If it’s too hot, it can create pockets in the brownies and disrupt the swirl effect. Ensure it has time to cool to room temperature, so you achieve that marbled look you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just thaw and drain them before use.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

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

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version.