Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delightful summer treat that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the freshness of cherries. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home, these blondies are a sweet and chewy dessert that everyone will love. Their unique blend of flavors and textures makes them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of cherries and dark chocolate creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these blondies in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in, these blondies suit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for sharing; they’re sure to impress friends and family alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or other fruits to create your own twist on this recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started making these Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, gather your essential tools. Having everything on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: Provides the perfect size for even baking and easy portioning.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing wet ingredients.
• Spatula: Great for spreading the batter evenly in the baking pan.

Ingredients

These cherry chocolate chip blondies are the perfect summertime cherry dessert loaded with dark chocolate and fresh cherries in a sweet cookie bar.

For the Blondies

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

How to Make 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 to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add one large egg (at room temperature) and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in 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 dark chocolate chips and pitted cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

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, with edges pulling away from the pan. Allow them to cool before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

These delicious Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies can be served in various ways to enhance your dessert experience. Whether you prefer them warm, cold, or with toppings, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the blondies warm and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that melts in your mouth.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a generous drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cherries perfectly.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the rich blondies. Top each piece for an elegant touch.

Garnished with Cherries

• Scatter some fresh, pitted cherries on top for added flavor and a pop of color that makes your dish visually appealing.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation of your blondies and provide a sweet finish.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these blondies alongside your favorite coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and enhance your overall dessert experience.

How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Perfecting Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies involves simple tips that ensure they turn out delicious every time. Follow these helpful hints for great results.

• Use room temperature egg: This helps the batter mix more evenly, creating a smoother texture.
• Measure flour accurately: Using too much flour can make the blondies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for precision.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined keeps the blondies soft and chewy instead of dense.
• Check for doneness: Bake until golden brown around the edges; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing the blondies to cool helps them set properly and makes cutting easier without crumbling.
• Experiment with toppings: Adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips can create unique flavor profiles each time you bake.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies can enhance their flavors and make your dessert spread more exciting. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the blondies.

2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy side that complements the textures in the blondies.

3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These bite-sized treats add elegance and pair beautifully with chocolate chips in the blondies.

4. Nutty Granola Bars
   Chewy granola bars offer crunch and nutty flavors that balance well against the soft blondie texture.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can create an interesting savory contrast to the sweet cherry flavors in your dessert.

6. Caramel Sauce Dipping Station
   Set up a small bowl of warm caramel sauce for dipping bites of blondie, adding decadence to every piece.

7. Mini Cupcakes
   Small cupcakes in various flavors can complement your dessert table while providing variety alongside the blondies.

8. Minted Lemonade
   This refreshing drink refreshes your palate between bites and adds a zesty twist to your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies turn out perfectly every time. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing the butter to cool can lead to a greasy texture. Always let it cool before mixing with sugar.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs can result in uneven mixing. Make sure your egg is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Stirring too much can make your blondies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can lead to dry blondies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Baking without parchment paper: Skipping this step makes it harder to remove the blondies from the pan. Always line your baking dish for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep them at room temperature if you plan to consume them quickly.

Freezing Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it or they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, using fresh cherries is perfect! Just make sure they are pitted and roughly chopped.

How long do Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies last?

They last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add nuts to my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

What should I do if my blondies are too dry?

If they’re dry, try reducing the baking time slightly next time or check your flour measurement accuracy.

Are these blondies suitable for parties?

Yes! Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies make a delightful treat that is easy to share at gatherings or events.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delicious summer treat that combines sweet cherries with rich chocolate. Their versatility allows you to customize them by adding nuts or swapping out ingredients based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy these delightful bars with family and friends!