If you have a sweet tooth and adore the delightful marriage of cherries and chocolate, then you are in for an absolute treat with this Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe. These blondies are soft, chewy, and bursting with the perfect balance of rich semi-sweet chocolate chips and tangy dried cherries, making every bite a heavenly experience. Whether you want to surprise your friends or treat yourself, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an extraordinary dessert that’s as charming to look at as it is to eat.

Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients form the backbone of this Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe. Each component contributes uniquely — from the moisture and richness of melted butter to the tender crumb given by flour and the sweet-tart surprise of dried cherries.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Provides the rich, buttery base essential for chewy blondies.
1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moistness and deep caramel notes to the blondies’ flavor.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients together and gives structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds warmth to the batter.
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient giving blondies their classic tender texture.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that keeps the blondies light and airy.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and intensifies all the sweet flavors.
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Brings melty, rich chocolate pockets throughout.
1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped: Adds bursts of tanginess and chewy texture for contrast.

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure those blondies come out cleanly without sticking. This simple setup step will make your baking experience smooth and cleanup even easier.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted and cooled butter together with the packed brown sugar until you achieve a smooth, glossy mixture. This step is essential as it helps dissolve the sugar and builds a luscious base. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined for that rich, fragrant batter.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening and seasoning, which is key to a perfectly balanced crumb in your blondies.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Overmixing can make your blondies tough, so stirring until you no longer see flour is ideal to maintain a tender texture.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped dried cherries into the batter. These flavorful add-ins create delicious bursts of sweetness and tartness, making every bite a dynamic experience.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Evenly spread the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 22 to 26 minutes. You want the edges to be set but the center to remain slightly moist. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs to keep the blondies soft and chewy.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into nine generous squares. Cooling ensures they firm up just enough for neat slices without crumbling.

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch to your Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe. For an extra indulgent finish, drizzle some melted white chocolate or top each square with a few fresh cherries for color and freshness.

Side Dishes

Serve these blondies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream for a classic and satisfying dessert. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot cocoa pairs beautifully, making your treat perfect for any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, cut the blondies into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with cherries for a cherry-chocolate kabob. You can also layer pieces between homemade whipped cream and more chocolate chips to create a layered parfait that highlights all the flavors of this Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Proper storage helps maintain their chewy consistency without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze these blondies for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

To enjoy your chilled or thawed blondies warm, simply microwave a piece for 10 to 15 seconds. Warming enhances the chocolate’s melty goodness and brings out the fresh cherry flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute dried cherries with fresh cherries?

Fresh cherries can be juicier and may add extra moisture, which could affect the texture of your blondies. Using dried cherries ensures the chewy texture and tartness remain balanced in the recipe.

Is it possible to use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! White chocolate chips provide a sweeter, creamier flavor that complements the cherries nicely. Just be mindful that this swap will make the blondies sweeter overall.

How do I know when the blondies are perfectly baked?

The edges should look set and golden brown while the center still looks slightly soft. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your blondies are perfectly baked and will stay chewy.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend, you can adapt the recipe for gluten sensitivities. Just make sure the blend you use contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best texture.

What’s the best way to cut blondies without them crumbling?

Allow them to cool completely before cutting, preferably chill them slightly for cleaner cuts. Using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts also helps achieve smooth slices.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe is one of those magical desserts that bring warmth and joy with every bite. It combines simple ingredients in a way that turns an everyday treat into something extraordinary. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, I highly encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the cozy, chewy, cherry-chocolate bliss it delivers.