In a medium bowl stir together the cocoa powder and baking soda. Add half the butter and mix well.
Add the hot water. Stir until the mixture thickens.
Add the remaining butter, vanilla, cherry extract (if using), eggs, and chocolate chips. Mix well. Now, add the dry ingredients.
Mix until smooth. Fold in the cherries.
Spread in the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center only jiggles slightly. Cool completely.
Topping
Put the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1 minute. Stir until the chocolate has melted.
Pour over the cooled brownies and spread until smooth.
Top with the cherries in a 3 x 6 grid. When the brownies are cut into 18 pieces each piece has one cherry.
Notes
Note: These are a bit crumbly and messy to serve when warm. They hold together much better after being chilled.Cocoa Powder - We used half regular cocoa powder and half black cocoa powder. You can use either.Fudgy Brownies - For the fudgiest brownies cool completely and then refrigerate overnight. If you like your brownies warm reheat them after they have been completely cold.Cherry Flavor - Cherry extract is optional but give the brownies more of a cherry flavor.