As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of cherries met melting chocolate, whisking me away to my favorite dessert memories. My latest creation, Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies, merges these two beloved flavors into a quick, uncomplicated treat that embodies everything I adore about baking. With a prep time of just under 40 minutes, these blondies are a delightful addition to any gathering or a satisfying indulgence for late-night cravings. Plus, they offer a versatile base for gluten-free or vegan adaptations, making them suitable for everyone at the table. Curious how you can whip up these melt-in-your-mouth squares? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You'll Love These Blondies
Simplicity is key! This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of sweet cherries and rich chocolate chips creates a dessert that's hard to resist. Adaptable for Everyone: Have dietary preferences? Easily make these Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies gluten-free or vegan without sacrificing taste. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it's a family gathering or a potluck, these blondies will surely impress your guests. For an extra touch, consider serving them warm with vanilla ice cream, or try variations like the Ham Cheese Croissant for a comforting twist on desserts!
Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies Ingredients
Unleash your inner baker with these must-have ingredients!
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Creates a dense, fudgy texture; substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan option.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor essential for blondies; granulated sugar can be used if needed.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure extract for the best complexity.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; essential for enhancing flavor.
For the Add-ins
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds rich chocolate flavor; feel free to switch with dark chocolate chunks or white chocolate chips.
- Cherries (Fresh or Frozen) – Offers vibrant flavor; use fresh if in season, or ensure frozen cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
With these ingredients at hand, you're ready to create magical Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the ideal baking temperature. While the oven warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper or grease it with a little butter to ensure your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies come out smoothly.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with light brown sugar. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and glossy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring the rich, fudgy texture that defines your blondies.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack an egg into the bowl and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated, forming a rich, cohesive batter. This process should take about another minute; you’ll know it’s ready when the mixture appears uniform and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add in the all-purpose flour and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture; be careful not to over-mix as this can affect the texture of your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies. Stop mixing as soon as you don’t see any dry flour—this will take about 30 seconds for the perfect blend.
Step 5: Fold in the Add-ins
With the batter ready, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and halved cherries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter to get delightful bites of fruit and chocolate in every square. Aim for a uniform distribution, which will take about another minute of careful folding.
Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Pan
Pour the finished batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Smooth the top, which helps achieve a nice, even bake. Take a moment to ensure it looks visually appealing before it heads into the oven; this slight touch can elevate your presentation.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on the blondies, and test for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs indicating the delicious, gooey texture you’re aiming for.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period is essential for achieving the right texture. Once cooled, cut them into squares and serve to enjoy the luscious flavors of your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies!
Storage Tips for Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies
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Room Temperature: Store your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
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Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh for a bit longer, refrigerate for up to 5-6 days. Just make sure to place them in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap individual blondie squares in parchment paper, then place them in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when you're ready to indulge!
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Reheating: To revive their gooey goodness, microwave each blondie for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a delightful, chewy treat!
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies
Imagine complementing your blissful blondies with delightful pairings that elevate every bite and create a scrumptious experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm, gooey blondies, creating a delicious contrast that’s simply irresistible.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and blueberries enhances freshness, brightening the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries for a delightful explosion in your mouth.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling warm melted chocolate over the blondies intensifies their chocolatey goodness and adds an elegant touch for impressive presentation during gatherings.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: A light layer of cream cheese frosting offers a tangy balance to the sweetness of the blondies. This combination will have everyone clamoring for more.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This fluffy topping adds lightness and a tropical twist, beautifully countering the richness of the blondies and making each bite feel airy.
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Milk or Almond Milk: Enjoy with a glass of chilled milk or almond milk for an age-old classic pairing. It serves as a wonderful way to wash down the sweetness and brings comfort to every indulgence.
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Espresso: A shot of espresso or a cappuccino brings out the deep flavors of chocolate, elevating your dessert experience while adding a cozy café vibe at home.
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Chocolate-Covered Cherries: For a theme twist, serve chocolate-covered cherries on the side to amplify the flavors; they are a fun, decadent treat everyone will love!
Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies with these delicious substitutions and twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. This way, everyone can enjoy the treat without missing out on flavor!
- Vegan Delight: Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter to make these blondies vegan-friendly. They’ll be just as moist and delicious!
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture and crunch. This will bring a delightful contrast to the soft, gooey blondies.
- White Chocolate Twist: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet to complement the cherries’ sweetness and brighten up the flavors. A fruity and creamy twist like this can be a game-changer!
- Brown Butter Upgrade: Brown the butter before mixing it in for a deeper, nuttier flavor that enhances the overall richness of the blondies. You'll love the rich taste it brings!
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spicy kick. This will give your blondies a cozy flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Dried Fruit Variation: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots alongside the cherries for another layer of fruity goodness. The chewy dried fruit combined with chocolate creates a delicious blend!
- Add a Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the cooled blondies for an attractive finish that will catch everyone’s eye. It’s a simple way to elevate your dessert experience!
Whether you’re feeling adventurous or sticking to the classic combination, these variations will make your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies truly your own, just perfect for enjoying alongside options like Chocolate Zucchini Cake for those who want a touch of extra indulgence!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients as directed, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake the blondies in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; just ensure they’ve completely cooled first. When you're ready to enjoy, simply slice them into squares and serve, or warm them for a delightful, gooey treat that's just as delicious as the day you made them!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies
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Watch Your Mixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding flour. This helps maintain that chewy texture you want in your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies.
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Moisture Control: If using frozen cherries, ensure they're thoroughly dried after thawing. Excess moisture can affect the consistency of your blondies.
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Perfect Toothpick Test: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; slightly under-baking can create a gooey center, which some might love. Aim for a few moist crumbs.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature ingredients, like eggs and butter, can help achieve a smoother batter and better rise in your blondies.
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Don't Rush the Cooling: Allowing the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes is essential for perfect cuts and texture. Patience pays off!
Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for in ripe cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh cherries, look for shiny, plump fruit with a deep red color and no dark spots all over. The stems should be green and fresh, indicating they were recently harvested. If using frozen cherries, make sure they're properly thawed and drained to reduce excess moisture that can affect your blondies' texture.
How should I store leftover blondies?
For best results, store your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate them for 5-6 days. Just ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out. Enjoy them straight from the fridge or at room temperature!
Can I freeze these blondies?
Very! To freeze your Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies, wrap individual squares in parchment paper to maintain their texture. Then, place them in a zip-top bag and pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, or microwave briefly for a warm treat.
What if my blondies are too dry or crumbly?
If your blondies turn out dry, it might be due to overmixing the batter or baking them too long. To troubleshoot, make sure to mix until just combined and test doneness with a toothpick—aim for a few moist crumbs instead of a clean pick. If you're facing this issue frequently, consider reducing the baking time by a couple of minutes.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! Chocolate can be toxic to dogs, so ensure that your furry friends don’t have access to these blondies. For those with allergies, feel free to adapt this recipe by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using a gluten-free flour blend for a safer option.
What other variations can I make to this recipe?
For a nutty flavor, consider adding ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. You can also switch out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate to enhance cherry flavor. Additionally, try using browned butter instead of regular butter for a richer taste, or explore vegan options by substituting all regular ingredients with plant-based alternatives.
Chocolate Chip and Cherry Blondies: Your New Favorite Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar until smooth and glossy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until no dry flour remains, about 30 seconds.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and halved cherries, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, testing with a toothpick for doneness; it should have a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
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