Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the sweetness of fresh cherries with rich dark chocolate. Ideal for summer gatherings or a cozy night in, these delicious cookie bars are sure to impress anyone who tries them. With a simple preparation process and mouth-watering flavors, these blondies will quickly become a favorite dessert option for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cherries and dark chocolate creates a sweet and slightly tart taste that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Dessert: These blondies are great for parties, picnics, or simply as an after-dinner treat.
• Batch Friendly: This recipe makes 16 servings, perfect for sharing or enjoying over several days.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip up these delights with basic kitchen tools without the need for fancy gadgets.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: A good set of mixing bowls allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
• Spatula: A spatula helps in folding ingredients gently, ensuring even distribution of chocolate chips and cherries in the batter.
• 8×8 Baking Pan: This size is perfect for evenly baking your blondies and achieving that desirable chewy texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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.

• 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 (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 baking pan by lining it with cooking spray and parchment paper.

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 room temperature egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

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

Step 6: Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Smooth with a spatula to ensure evenness. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top, with edges pulling away from the pan. Allow to cool before serving.

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Cherry chocolate chip blondies are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to elevate this treat. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your dessert even more enjoyable.

A La Mode

• Serve warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creaminess complements the rich chocolate and tart cherries perfectly.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each blondie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the blondies just before serving. This extra layer of chocolate enhances the overall flavor and visual appeal.

Paired with Fresh Cherries

• Serve alongside fresh cherries for a refreshing bite. The bright flavor of the fruit pairs beautifully with the richness of the blondies.

Accompanied by Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the dessert.

How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Perfecting your cherry chocolate chip blondies is key to achieving that ideal texture and flavor. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Use room temperature egg: This helps create a smoother batter, ensuring even mixing and better texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies instead of soft ones.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Let them cool: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan before cutting. This helps them firm up for easier slicing.
• Store properly: Keep leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Pairing side dishes with cherry chocolate chip blondies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic choice that balances sweetness and adds creaminess.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich blondies.

3. Chocolate Mousse
   If you’re a chocolate lover, this light dessert creates a decadent pairing with your blondies.

4. Coffee or Espresso
   The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the blondies, creating a delightful contrast.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzling caramel sauce over your blondie takes it to another level of indulgence.

6. Nut Butter Spread
   A scoop of almond or peanut butter offers a protein boost and nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate and cherries.

7. Coconut Whipped Cream
   For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream provides a light and flavorful topping.

8. Milkshake
   A refreshing milkshake, especially cherry or chocolate-flavored, can make for an exciting pairing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Bold Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients can affect flavor. Always use fresh cherries and high-quality chocolate chips.
• Bold Measuring Errors: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Bold Overmixing Batter: Mixing too much can make blondies tough. Stir gently until just combined for a soft texture.
• Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F for the best results.
• Bold Skipping Cooling Time: Cutting into warm blondies can result in a gooey mess. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place blondies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Bold Stovetop: Place blondies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I ensure my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies stay moist?

Adding enough melted butter and not overbaking will keep your blondies moist. Aim for golden brown edges while maintaining a slightly soft center.

Can I use frozen cherries in my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies?

Yes! Frozen cherries work well; just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing them into the batter.

What other mix-ins can I add to my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies?

Feel free to customize by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Can I make these Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delightful treat that balances sweetness with the tartness of cherries. Their versatility allows you to experiment with various mix-ins, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a burst of summer flavors in every bite!