Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are the perfect summer dessert, combining the sweet and tart flavors of fresh cherries with rich dark chocolate. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply as a delightful treat at home, these blondies stand out with their chewy texture and vibrant flavor. Baking these treats will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to indulge!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of cherries and dark chocolate creates a deliciously unique taste experience.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer picnics, cozy family gatherings, or as a sweet snack any day of the week.
• Kid-Friendly: These blondies appeal to all ages, making them great for baking with kids.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in different mix-ins like nuts or other fruits for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by efficiently mixing wet ingredients together.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in delicate ingredients like chocolate chips and cherries without breaking them.

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 prevent sticking.

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 the room temperature egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until everything is well blended.

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 using a spatula. Ensure even distribution 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, with edges pulling away from the pan. Allow cooling before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Cherry chocolate chip blondies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging at home, these suggestions will enhance your dessert experience.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm blondies, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Adding a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce on top brings an extra layer of decadence. It complements the dark chocolate chips wonderfully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance. You can even sprinkle some additional cherries on top for color and flavor.

Served with Fresh Cherries

• Fresh cherries add a burst of flavor and texture. They can be placed alongside the blondies for those who want extra fruitiness.

Accompanied by a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoying your blondies with a steaming cup of coffee creates a perfect afternoon treat. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweet flavors perfectly.

How to Perfect Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

Perfecting cherry chocolate chip blondies is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use room temperature egg: A room temperature egg combines better with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter.

• Melt butter properly: Ensure that the butter is melted but not too hot; this helps prevent cooking the egg when combined.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour; overmixing can make blondies dense rather than soft and chewy.

• Check for doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to check if they are done; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

• Cool before slicing: Allow blondies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares; this helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

When serving cherry chocolate chip blondies, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the blondies.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft blondies.

3. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   These sweet treats provide an elegant touch and pair well with the chocolate in the blondies.

4. Caramel Sauce
   A small dish of warm caramel sauce allows guests to dip pieces of blondie, adding an indulgent twist.

5. Chilled Lemonade
   Refreshing lemonade offers a zesty contrast that complements the richness of the dessert perfectly.

6. Nutty Trail Mix
   A crunchy trail mix made from nuts and dried fruits serves as an excellent snack alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies can be simple and enjoyable, but a few common mistakes can affect your results.

• Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can throw off the texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven baking. Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature before you start baking.
• Overmixing the batter: This can result in tough blondies. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they incorporate into the batter. Let them come to room temperature before mixing.
• Not cooling before cutting: Cutting into hot blondies can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely in the pan for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each blondie on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

What is the best way to cut Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies?

Use a sharp knife and cut while they are cooled completely for clean edges. Wipe the knife between cuts if necessary.

How do I make my Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies even more flavorful?

Add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or try incorporating different types of chocolate chips like milk or white chocolate for variety.

Can I substitute other fruits for cherries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches could work well in this blondie recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or different types of chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious dessert bars!