These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delightful summer treat, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Bursting with the rich flavors of dark chocolate and fresh cherries, these blondies stand out as a sweet cookie bar that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they make for an ideal dessert that suits any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries and rich dark chocolate creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
- Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer parties, picnics, or just as a delicious treat at home.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These blondies are sure to impress friends and family with their chewy texture and fruity burst.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite chocolate or add nuts for extra crunch!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, gather a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan (8×8)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect blondie texture.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix ingredients efficiently without any mess.
- Whisk: This tool helps combine wet ingredients smoothly, making it easy to incorporate air for a lighter blondie.
Ingredients
These cherry chocolate chip blondies are the perfect summer time cherry dessert loaded with dark chocolate and fresh cherries in a sweet cookie bar.
Ingredients:
– 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 for easy removal after baking.
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 the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and pitted cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. The edges should pull away from the pan slightly. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies!
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Cherry chocolate chip blondies are best enjoyed fresh, but there are many delightful ways to serve them that can enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience.
À la Mode
- Serve a warm blondie with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream on top for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the blondies for an extra touch of sweetness and a luxurious look.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Accompany your blondies with fresh cherries or berries to add a refreshing element that complements the rich flavors.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Top blondies with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and an elegant finish.
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea
- Pair your blondies with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Creating the perfect cherry chocolate chip blondies is easy if you follow these simple tips. With the right techniques, you can ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the blondies tender and avoid toughening them.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out slightly moist but not wet.
- Cool Before Cutting: Let the blondies cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling and ensure clean edges.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Pairing side dishes with cherry chocolate chip blondies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some complementary options that enhance their flavor.
-
Fresh Berry Salad
A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the blondies. -
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layer vanilla yogurt with granola and cherries for a creamy, crunchy complement to your dessert. -
Chocolate Pudding
Serve alongside rich chocolate pudding for an indulgent pairing that chocolate lovers will adore. -
Coconut Sorbet
The lightness of coconut sorbet offers a refreshing contrast to the dense blondie texture. -
Caramel Sauce
A small bowl of warm caramel sauce allows guests to dip their blondies, adding another layer of flavor. -
Nutty Granola Bars
Serve crunchy granola bars as a crunchy contrast that balances the softness of the blondies. -
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip
A sweet cream cheese dip enhances each bite, providing creamy richness when paired with the blondie. -
Chilled Herbal Tea
A glass of chilled herbal tea acts as a refreshing drink option that pairs well with this rich dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.
- Boldly skipping the cooling step: Allowing your blondies to cool is vital. If they are cut too soon, they may crumble or fall apart.
- Boldly neglecting room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to a lumpy batter. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Boldly overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your blondies dense. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
- Boldly ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check your blondies a few minutes early to avoid overbaking, as they should be golden brown on top.
- Boldly using unpitted cherries: Forgetting to pit the cherries can lead to unpleasant surprises in texture and flavor. Always ensure cherries are pitted before adding them to your recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies
- Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil tightly.
- 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 freshly baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat individually on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, which helps retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies.
Can I use frozen cherries in Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.
What if I don’t have butter?
You can substitute melted coconut oil or margarine for butter in this recipe without compromising flavor.
How do I know when my blondies are done?
Your blondies are done when they are golden brown on top and slightly pulling away from the edges of the pan. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I customize my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or use different types of chocolate chips like white chocolate or milk chocolate for unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are not only delicious but also versatile. They’re perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat anytime. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or swapping out chocolate types to suit your taste. Give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!