“On a bright afternoon, the sweet aroma of cherries wafted through my kitchen, igniting a craving I couldn’t resist. That’s when I decided to whip up these Cherry Blondies, guaranteed to bring a twist to your dessert game. Easy to make and budget-friendly, this recipe combines the chewy goodness of blondies with tart cherry splendor and creamy white chocolate, making it a delightful vegetarian treat for any occasion. Ideal for busy days when time is short, they come together quickly, allowing you to satisfy that sweet tooth without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a picnic, or simply indulging in a quiet moment at home, these Cherry Blondies are sure to impress. Curious about how to bring this deliciousness to your own table? Let’s dive into the recipe!”
Why are Cherry Blondies a must-try?
Irresistible flavor combination: The blend of tart cherries, sweet white chocolate, and crunchy almonds creates a taste explosion.
Quick prep time: You can whip these up in just about an hour, perfect for busy days when you’re craving something special.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or substitute fresh cherries for the pie filling, tailoring the recipe to your taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a picnic or a weekend gathering, these blondies will be the star of the dessert table, enchanting guests of all ages.
Budget-friendly: All ingredients are affordable and often found in your pantry, proving that delicious desserts don’t have to break the bank.
Cherry Blondies Ingredients
These Cherry Blondies are just a few ingredients away from delight!
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Helps the blondies rise; no substitutions are needed to achieve the perfect texture.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; it’s essential for balancing the sweetness.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; use real vanilla for the best results.
- Almond Extract – Enhances sweetness and nutty notes; be cautious with the amount due to its potency.
- Cherry Pie Filling – Provides a sweet-tart cherry flavor; fresh pitted cherries can be substituted for a fresher taste.
- Salted Butter – Contributes richness and helps with texture; unsalted butter can work too—just add a pinch of salt.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps form the texture; coconut sugar can be used for a twist.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a chewy texture; light or dark brown sugar can be interchanged.
- White Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and creaminess; try butterscotch chips for a different flavor.
- Slivered Almonds – Provides that satisfying crunch; can be replaced with chopped walnuts or omitted altogether.
Optional Topping Ideas
- Extra White Chocolate – Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for added sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle additional nuts for more texture and flavor.
These ingredients come together to create a batch of Cherry Blondies that will sweeten your day!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease an 8×8” baking dish and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This preparation ensures your Cherry Blondies will bake evenly and release effortlessly when they’re done.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients helps to distribute the baking powder evenly, ensuring your blondies will rise beautifully. Set aside this mixture while you focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, crack 1 egg and add 1 teaspoon each of vanilla extract and almond extract, along with 1 can of cherry pie filling. Use a fork to whisk everything together until well combined. This mixture will impart a delightful cherry flavor to your Cherry Blondies and provide a moist base.
Step 4: Brown the Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of salted butter, stirring frequently. Continue to cook until the butter foams and turns a deep golden brown—about 5-8 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a rich, nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 5: Combine Butter and Sugars
Pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl and add ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup brown sugar. Using a hand mixer, blend these ingredients on medium speed until thoroughly combined, creating a creamy mixture. This step adds a wonderful buttery richness to your Cherry Blondies.
Step 6: Incorporate the Wet Mixture
Next, carefully incorporate the cherry filling mixture into the butter and sugar blend. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined, ensuring no lumps remain. This step will add that luscious fruity flavor into your batter, setting the stage for your Cherry Blondies.
Step 7: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, folding it together with a spatula or spoon. Mix just until combined; be cautious not to overmix, as this keeps your blondies soft and chewy. Once the batter is formed, gently fold in ½ cup of white chocolate chips and ¼ cup of slivered almonds for that delightful texture.
Step 8: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Optionally, top with more white chocolate chips and slivered almonds for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be set, with a slightly gooey center.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Cherry Blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. This cooling period allows them to achieve that perfect chewy texture. After cooling, lift them out using the parchment overhang, slice into squares, and get ready to enjoy these delightful treats!
Storage Tips for Cherry Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep your Cherry Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture while keeping them fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy that delightful homemade taste!
Expert Tips for Cherry Blondies
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Brown the Butter: Stir consistently while browning the butter to avoid burning. This technique adds a nutty flavor that’s essential for perfect Cherry Blondies.
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Cool Before Slicing: Allow blondies to cool for about 20 minutes before cutting. This enhances chewiness and ensures they won’t crumble apart.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of the desired chewy texture.
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Vary the Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans to give your Cherry Blondies a personal touch and added crunch.
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Use Fresh Cherries: If you prefer a fresher taste, substitute cherry pie filling with fresh pitted cherries, adjusting sweetness as needed for ideal flavor balance.
What to Serve with Chewy Cherry Blondies?
Treat your loved ones to a delightful dessert experience that pairs perfectly with these chewy Cherry Blondies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanillin harmonizes beautifully with the tart cherry and buttery blondies, enhancing the overall sweetness.
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Coffee: A hot cup complements the rich flavors of the blondies, offering a lovely contrast with the chewy texture.
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Fresh Berries: A sprinkle of fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a pop of color and a tartness that balances sweetness, enhancing your dessert plate.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate over the blondies takes the dessert to another level of indulgence, marrying flavors beautifully.
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Chopped Nuts: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and nuttiness, elevating the textural experience.
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Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water with a hint of lemon cleanses the palate between bites, making every taste of your blondies even more memorable.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream dolloped on top introduces a velvety element that pairs seamlessly with the fudgy nature of these treats.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your blondies adds an extra touch of sweetness, complementing the cherries delightfully.
These delicious pairings will enhance your dining experience while making your Cherry Blondies the star of the show!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the batter up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to keep the wet mix covered to maintain freshness. If you prefer, you can bake them ahead of time and store the finished blondies in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator; they’ll stay just as delicious! When ready to serve, simply let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for a gooey treat that tastes freshly baked.
Cherry Blondies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore endless possibilities to personalize these delightful Cherry Blondies. Your creativity can take them to new tasty heights!
- Nut-Free: Omit the almonds entirely, or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option without sacrificing crunch.
- Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use coconut oil instead of butter. Almond milk complements the mixture beautifully!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This ensures everyone can enjoy your delicious creation.
- Tropical Twist: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut along with the cherries for a tropical vibe. This will transport your taste buds to paradise!
- Extra Chocolate: Mix in dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Spiced Up: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavor profile. It adds a cozy, inviting aroma to your kitchen!
- Dried Fruit: Replace cherry pie filling with a mix of raisins and chopped dried apricots. This gives a sweet chewiness that surprises and delights.
- Spicy Variant: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising twist. The slight heat will elevate the sweetness and intrigue your palate.
Don’t hesitate to experiment; these Cherry Blondies are a canvas waiting for your artistic touch. For more ideas, check out our Nut Variations and Fruit Options for further inspiration!
Cherry Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cherries for my Cherry Blondies?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for ones that are plump, shiny, and deep red in color. Avoid any with blemishes or dark spots, which can indicate overripeness. If using cherry pie filling, check for the quality of the brand for optimal flavor!
What is the best storage method for Cherry Blondies?
You can store your Cherry Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer them cold or want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. This method helps maintain their chewy texture and delicious flavor!
Can Cherry Blondies be frozen?
Very! To freeze your Cherry Blondies, allow them to cool completely, then slice them into squares. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering with parchment paper. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What should I do if my Blondies turn out dry?
Ah, that can happen sometimes! To achieve a moist texture, be sure not to overbake your blondies. If they’re dry, you might have left them in the oven too long. Use a toothpick to test; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs. For future batches, consider baking them for a shorter time and allowing them to cool properly for that chewy ideal.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cherry Blondies?
Certainly! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can make it vegan by using a flax egg instead of a traditional egg. For nut allergies, simply substitute the almonds with seeds like sunflower seeds, or omit them entirely. Always double-check with your guests to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling in my Cherry Blondies?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries will yield a wonderfully authentic taste. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding. The sweetness may vary, so you might want to adjust the sugar in the recipe slightly to avoid making your blondies too tart. Enjoy experimenting!
Chewy Cherry Blondies That Will Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8” baking dish by greasing it and lining with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cherry pie filling. Mix well.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, cooking until browned. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the browned butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Incorporate the cherry mixture into the butter-sugar blend, mixing just until combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stir in white chocolate chips and slivered almonds.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish, spreading evenly. Optionally, top with more white chocolate chips and almonds. Bake for 50-55 minutes.
- After baking, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before lifting them out and slicing.