Sour Cherry Blondies Recipe is one of my favorite treats to whip up when I want something sweet and satisfying. These blondies are chewy, rich, and packed with the tartness of sour cherries that perfectly balances the sweetness. I remember the first time I made these blondies. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was craving something delicious. I rummaged through my pantry and found some sour cherries. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a gem.
What Are Blondies?
Blondies are often considered the younger sibling of brownies. They are made with brown sugar, giving them a rich, caramel-like flavor. Unlike brownies, blondies don’t have cocoa powder, which makes them lighter in color. They have a soft and chewy texture that makes them irresistible.
Why Sour Cherries?
Sour cherries add a unique flavor to these blondies. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a delicious balance. I love the pop of flavor they bring to each bite. Plus, they add a beautiful color that makes the blondies visually appealing.
Ingredients for Sour Cherry Blondies Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful blondies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cherries, pitted and halved
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
How to Make Sour Cherry Blondies
Making sour cherry blondies is simple and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.
2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the blondies later.
3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Stir well until it’s smooth. Then, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5: Fold in the Sour Cherries
Gently fold in the sour cherries and nuts if you’re using them. The cherries should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice them into squares and enjoy!
Tips
To ensure your blondies turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense blondies. Stir just until combined.
- Use Fresh Sour Cherries: If possible, use fresh cherries for the best flavor. If not, frozen cherries work well too.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your blondies a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
Serving Ideas for Sour Cherry Blondies
Sour cherry blondies can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Serve Warm: Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: A drizzle of melted chocolate adds an extra layer of sweetness.
- Pair with Coffee: These blondies make a great afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
Storing
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they are so good), here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week.
- Freeze: For extended storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Variations of Sour Cherry Blondies
Feel free to get creative with these blondies. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some dark or white chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
- Use Different Fruits: Substitute sour cherries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Sour Cherry Blondies Recipe
This Sour Cherry Blondies Recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it a unique dessert that everyone will enjoy. I love bringing these blondies to gatherings, and they always disappear quickly. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite.