Sour Cherry Blondies

An easy sour cherry recipe for delicious, chewy blondies awaits you! Sour Cherry Blondies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. These treats combine the rich sweetness of brown sugar with the tartness of sour cherries, creating a delightful dessert that stands out. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a batch ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these blondies can be in the oven before you know it.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet and tart from the cherries makes every bite exciting.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or as an everyday snack.
• Chewy Texture: These blondies deliver a satisfying chewiness that pairs perfectly with their fruity flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is budget-friendly and accessible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparing your Sour Cherry Blondies even simpler.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or spoon
• 8-inch square baking pan
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to mix your ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your blondies turn out perfectly every time.
• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when removing hot pans from the oven.

Ingredients

For the Blondie Base

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Structure

• 1 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cherry Flavor

• 1 cup pitted sour cherries

How to Make Sour Cherry Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Combine the brown sugar and melted butter until mixed well.
2. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder until just combined.
2. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 4: Incorporate Cherries

Gently fold in the pitted sour cherries into your batter. This step adds that delightful burst of flavor while keeping some cherries whole.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch square pan, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve these Sour Cherry Blondies fresh for a delightful dessert experience!

How to Serve Sour Cherry Blondies

Sour Cherry Blondies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your dessert experience, here are some serving suggestions to enhance the enjoyment of these chewy, tart delights.

Simple Serving

• Warm with a scoop of ice cream – Serve the blondies warm alongside vanilla or almond ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Sprinkled with powdered sugar – A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.

Gourmet Touch

• Drizzled with chocolate sauce – Pour warm chocolate sauce over the blondies for an indulgent twist.
• Topped with whipped cream – Add fresh whipped cream on top for a light and airy finish.

Accompaniments

• Paired with fresh berries – Serve alongside strawberries or raspberries to complement the tartness of the sour cherries.
• With a cup of coffee or tea – Enjoy these blondies as a sweet treat during your afternoon coffee or tea time.

How to Perfect Sour Cherry Blondies

Making Sour Cherry Blondies is easy, but there are tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Follow these guidelines for the best results.

• Use fresh cherries – Fresh sour cherries offer the best flavor and texture, making your blondies truly special.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until combined to keep the blondies chewy and avoid a dense texture.
• Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Cool before slicing – Allow the blondies to cool completely for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
• Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Sour Cherry Blondies

Pairing side dishes with Sour Cherry Blondies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of the blondies while adding creaminess.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the blondies.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting contrast with the sweet-tart flavors.
4. Chocolate Sauce Dipping Bowl – For an interactive dessert experience, serve chocolate sauce on the side for dipping.
5. Coconut Milk Pudding – This dairy-free option adds a rich texture that complements the tartness well.
6. Nutty Granola – Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for added texture and flavor depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sour Cherry Blondies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the blondies to cool before slicing is crucial. This helps set their texture and makes them easier to cut.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to dense blondies. Stir gently when combining ingredients, especially when adding the cherries.
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Always check your baking powder and flour for freshness to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can affect baking time. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Sour Cherry Blondies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sour Cherry Blondies

• Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sour Cherry Blondies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place blondies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Sour Cherry Blondies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen sour cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen sour cherries! Just make sure they are pitted and thawed before adding them to the batter.

How do I know when the blondies are done?

The blondies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

What variations can I try with Sour Cherry Blondies?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or mix in white chocolate chips for added sweetness!

Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other tart fruits like cranberries or blueberries, but adjust sugar levels accordingly if they are less tart.

Are Sour Cherry Blondies suitable for gifting?

Yes, they make a wonderful gift! Just package them nicely in a decorative box or tin for sharing.

Final Thoughts

Sour Cherry Blondies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweetness with tartness. Their chewy texture makes them irresistible, and they can easily be customized with various nuts or chocolate chips. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s not only simple but also versatile enough to suit any occasion!