If you adore the sweet, buttery charm of blondies but crave something even more memorable, these Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies are destined to become your new favorite treat. Imagine blondies turned up a notch: chewy, golden, and speckled with pockets of melty chocolate and tangy cherries, perfectly balancing richness and brightness in every bite. They’re the kind of dessert you whip up for a special gathering, a weeknight craving, or to impress friends—because honestly, who can resist the magic of chocolate and cherries together?
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies is how every ingredient pulls its weight, from the golden brown sugar that brings deep flavor, to the cherries adding little pops of tartness. Simple cupboard basics transform into something truly irresistible.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted and cooled): Gives these blondies their rich, tender crumb and that addictive bakery-style flavor.
- Light brown sugar (1 1/2 cups, packed): Infuses each bite with a warm caramel note and acts as the backbone for the chewy texture.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind everything together and help the bars set beautifully.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Rounds out all the flavors and enhances every other ingredient.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The key structure builder for these blondies, creating that perfect, slightly dense bite.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle lift, so the blondies don’t turn out too flat.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and heightens all flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melty chocolate pockets in every square, need I say more?
- Dried tart cherries (3/4 cup): The star ingredient for a pop of flavor; you can substitute with well-drained maraschino or chopped fresh cherries.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, 1/2 cup): If you love a little crunch, these make these bars truly irresistible.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat
First things first: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This not only helps the blondies bake evenly but also makes slicing and removing a breeze later on—no sticking or broken bars!
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted, slightly cooled butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy. This step sets the foundation: getting that gooey, caramel-like depth we crave in Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies. Then whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined and the mixture looks cohesive and creamy.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first is key; it prevents clumps of baking powder or salt in your blondies, so each bar bakes up evenly tender.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing—this is the secret to a soft, chewy blondie. Once combined, fold in the chocolate chips, the dried (or substitute) cherries, and nuts if you’re using them. Every stir is spreading those gorgeous little bursts of flavor throughout the batter!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Pop it in the oven, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are perfect). Try not to overbake—it keeps that lovely chewy blondie texture that makes Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies so special. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Garnishes
To take your Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies to the next level, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top right after baking for a sophisticated touch. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra chocolate chips pressed into the top of the cooling blondies makes them look bakery-ready without any fuss.
Side Dishes
These blondies pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. For coffee lovers, try serving them alongside a hot espresso or an iced coffee; the flavors are a match made in dessert heaven. If you’re feeling extra decadent, a drizzle of cherry syrup or chocolate sauce is always welcome.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, stack the sliced Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies in a tower and scatter fresh cherries around the plate. Or, for picnics and parties, wrap them individually in parchment and tie with string for a rustic, grab-and-go treat. They also shine cut into small squares and served with cocktail picks for a fuss-free dessert board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies keep wonderfully on the counter. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days—they stay soft, chewy, and completely swoon-worthy with every bite.
Freezing
If you want to be prepared for future cravings, freeze them! Wrap the cooled blondies tightly in plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste nearly as fresh as the day you baked them.
Reheating
Want that fresh-from-the-oven vibe? Warm individual squares in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. The chocolate turns irresistibly gooey and the cherries become even more aromatic—a simple step that brings the magic back every time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried or maraschino?
Absolutely! Just be sure to pit, chop, and pat the cherries dry thoroughly to prevent extra moisture from making the bars soggy. Fresh cherries bring even more juiciness and a lovely burst of tartness.
Do Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies need to be refrigerated?
Refrigeration isn’t necessary unless your kitchen is very warm. For best texture, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If using fresh cherries, refrigeration can help them last a bit longer, but letting them come to room temp before serving brings back their wonderful texture.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a good all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for the regular flour. Just make sure your mix contains xanthan gum for best structure, and bake as directed.
What’s the best way to cut them so they don’t crumble?
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan (hard, I know!), then use a sharp, slightly damp knife for clean slices. Wiping the blade between cuts also keeps the edges neat and picture-perfect.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You sure can! Simply double all ingredients and bake in two pans or a larger rimmed baking sheet. Keep an eye on the bake time; thinner blondies will bake faster, so check early to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that delivers big happiness from simple ingredients, these Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies absolutely belong in your baking repertoire. Give them a whirl—you’ll see just how quickly they disappear from the plate, and how often you’ll be asked for the recipe. Happy baking!
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Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 blondies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious fusion of sweet cherries and rich chocolate with these Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies. These chewy, decadent bars are perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings!
Ingredients
For the Blondies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup dried tart cherries (or chopped maraschino cherries, well-drained)
- optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture.
- Add mix-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, cherries, and nuts if desired.
- Bake: Spread batter in pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Cool and slice: Let blondies cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- You can use fresh cherries instead of dried, just ensure to remove excess moisture.
- For a gooey texture, slightly underbake the blondies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 blondie
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
