Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delightful summer dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of fresh cherries with rich dark chocolate. They’re easy to make and are sure to impress at any gathering, from backyard barbecues to family potlucks. With their chewy texture and vibrant flavor, these blondies stand out as a unique treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip up these blondies in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute desserts.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of juicy cherries and dark chocolate creates a deliciously sweet and slightly tart taste.
• Versatile Treat: These blondies are great for any occasion, whether it’s a summer party or a cozy evening at home.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or swap in different chocolate chips for variety.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These blondies bake to a golden perfection with a soft and chewy center.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (8×8 inch)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter by effectively mixing in the butter and sugar.
• Baking pan (8×8 inch): The right size pan ensures even baking, giving you perfectly cooked blondies every time.

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Ingredients

For these Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Blondie Base

• ½ cup butter (melted and cooled)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 large egg (room temp)
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

For the Flavor Boost

• ¾ cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 cup cherries (about 18 cherries) (pitted)

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan with cooking spray and parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and pitted cherries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Blondies

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Smooth it out with a spatula for even baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top, and the edges start pulling away from the pan. Allow cooling before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

These cherry chocolate chip blondies are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your blondies to the next level.

A La Mode

• Serve warm blondies topped with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a classic dessert experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for an airy and sweet contrast to the rich flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Enhance the chocolatey goodness by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each piece before serving.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing and tart balance.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor depth.

Served with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these blondies with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweetness and richness of the dessert.

How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Creating the perfect cherry chocolate chip blondies is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your blondies come out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter combine more easily, leading to a smoother texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your blondies tender and chewy.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the blondies to cool in the pan helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
• Store properly: Keep leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts or different types of chocolate chips for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Pairing side dishes with your cherry chocolate chip blondies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   The creamy texture and sweet flavor of vanilla ice cream complements the rich blondies beautifully.

2. Fresh Berry Salad
   A simple mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds brightness and acidity that balances the sweetness.

3. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the blondies for an indulgent touch that enhances their flavor profile.

4. Chocolate Mousse
   Light and airy chocolate mousse makes a delightful contrast against the denser texture of the blondies.

5. Fruit Sorbet
   The refreshing chill of fruit sorbet provides a cooling effect that pairs well with the rich cherry chocolate chip flavor.

6. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a slightly tangy side that offsets the sweetness of the blondies.

7. Coconut Whipped Cream
   For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream adds a tropical twist that goes well with cherries and chocolate.

8. Nutty Granola Bars
   Serve alongside homemade granola bars for additional texture and flavor variety, making it a fun dessert platter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you perfect your recipe.

• Boldly skip the cooling time – Allowing the blondies to cool before cutting is crucial for clean edges. If you cut too soon, they may crumble.
• Boldly forget to measure accurately – Proper measurements ensure the right texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Boldly overlook ingredient temperature – Using room temperature ingredients helps achieve a smooth batter. Take butter and eggs out ahead of time.
• Boldly rush the baking time – Ovens can vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Boldly ignore storage instructions – Proper storage keeps blondies fresh longer. Follow guidelines for refrigeration or freezing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used; just thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter.

How do I know when my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are done?

They are done when the top is golden brown and edges pull away from the pan. A toothpick inserted should have a few moist crumbs.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can substitute dark chocolate chips with milk or white chocolate chips based on your preference.

What can I add to customize these blondies?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or include spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

How should I store leftover blondies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are not just delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a summer dessert or any occasion treat, they can be customized with various mix-ins. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!