Cherry Cola Float Brownies
May 23, 2026
Cherry cola brownie cups with a soda shop twist!
Cherry Cola Float Brownies feel like the ultimate 80’s party dessert. The fudgy brownie cups hold sweet cherry pie filling, fluffy whipped cream, and a glossy cherry cola glaze that tastes just like the top of a float. It even fits perfectly with the classic Coca-Cola slogan, “You Can’t Beat the Feeling.”
Flavor Profile
These brownie cups are rich, chocolatey, creamy, and packed with cherry cola flavor. The brownies stay soft and fudgy while the cherry filling adds a bright fruity sweetness. Then the cola glaze comes in with that classic soda-shop flavor that tastes a little caramel-like, slightly fizzy-inspired, and surprisingly smooth with the chocolate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The brownie cups stay thick and fudgy while still holding their shape perfectly for filling and toppings.
- The cherry pie filling adds a bright fruity layer that balances the deep chocolate flavor really well.
- The cola glaze gives these a fun soda flavor twist
- Using a brownie mix keeps the recipe approachable and semi-homemade
- They look ridiculously cute on party tables, summer dessert bars, and retro-themed celebrations.
- The whipped cream topping makes everything feel lighter and gives that classic ice cream float vibe.
The Twist
The cola glaze is what completely changes these from regular brownie cups into something inspired by a throwback cherry cola float. Reducing the soda before turning it into glaze gives it a deeper flavor that tastes sweet, caramel-like, and slightly nostalgic without making the dessert watery.
Ingredient Highlights
- Brownie Mix: Creates thick, fudgy brownie cups without needing homemade batter.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Adds that classic cherry cola flavor pairing while keeping the centers soft and juicy.
- Cola: Reduced down into a glaze for concentrated soda flavor.
- Whipped Cream: Gives these the creamy “float” inspired finish.
- Powdered Sugar: Thickens the glaze into the perfect drizzle consistency.
Cherry Cola Float Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Cups
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- Nonstick spray or cupcake liners
Cherry Filling
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Cola Glaze
- 1/2 cup cola
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Maraschino cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin very well with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions.
- Divide the batter evenly between the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownie cups cool for about 5 minutes. While still warm, use the bottom of a small glass, spice jar, or spoon to gently press down the center of each brownie cup to create a deep well for the filling.
- Let the brownie cups cool completely in the pan. Carefully remove them once cooled.
Make the cola glaze
- Add the cola to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Simmer for about 8–10 minutes until reduced to roughly 1/4 cup. It should look slightly syrupy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
- Whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth. If the glaze feels too thick, add 1–2 teaspoons cola. If too thin, add a little extra powdered sugar.
Assemble
- Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons cherry pie filling into the center of each brownie cup.
- Drizzle with the cola glaze.
- Pipe or spoon whipped cream on top.
- Top with a maraschino cherry, if desired.
Notes
Makes 12 brownie cups
FAQ
Can I use cherry cola instead of regular cola?
Yes! Cherry cola makes the glaze even more intense and gives the dessert stronger soda fountain flavor.
How do I keep the brownie cups from sticking?
Grease the muffin tin really well or use cupcake liners. Let the brownie cups cool before removing them.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the brownie cups a day ahead, then add the filling and toppings closer to serving time.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, once topped with whipped cream they should be refrigerated until serving.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream gives these an extra creamy texture and works perfectly with the cherry flavor.
Sprinkle of Fun
Serve these during an 80’s movie night with cherry sodas, buttery popcorn, and bowls of throwback candy spread across the table. Put on your favorite 80’s classics and these brownie cups fit right in with the whole fun party feel.
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