Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies
When it comes to sweet treats, few things can beat the deliciousness of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies. These delightful bars have a chewy texture and a perfect balance of sweetness, making them an irresistible option for any gathering. I remember the first time I decided to whip up a batch; the house filled with that warm, buttery aroma that only baked goods can bring. My friends were over, and the moment the blondies came out of the oven, we couldn’t help but sneak a taste. They were soft, gooey, and bursting with flavors from the dried cranberries and chocolate chips. It was a moment of pure bliss.
As the temperature drops and the leaves crunch beneath our feet, I find myself reaching for comforting recipes that evoke the spirit of cozy gatherings. These blondies have become a staple, especially during fall festivities like Thanksgiving. They’re perfect for sharing, whether at a potluck or just as a sweet treat after dinner. I love how they combine the tartness of cranberries with the rich sweetness of chocolate, creating a flavor profile that’s simply unforgettable.
Not only are they easy to prepare, but the ingredients are often pantry staples, making them accessible and quick to whip up. You can enjoy them warm right from the oven or let them cool for a more structured treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal afternoon snack or dessert. Trust me, once you have a bite of these Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies, you’ll be hooked!
Recipe Snapshot
31 mins
5 mins
26 mins
Medium
200 kcal
2 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Frying Pan, Oven
The Appeal of This Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Delightfully Chewy Texture
What I love most about Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies is their incredible chewiness. The combination of melted butter and brown sugar creates a dense, fudgy base that’s hard to resist. Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfect texture achieved by not overmixing the batter.
Flavor Explosion
The addition of dried cranberries and chocolate chips takes these blondies over the top. The tartness from the cranberries complements the sweetness of the semi-sweet chocolate, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. Every mouthful is a delightful combination of sweet and tart, making them perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want a treat for yourself, these blondies fit the bill. They’re versatile enough to be served at casual get-togethers or festive celebrations like Thanksgiving. There’s something comforting about sharing homemade treats with friends and family, and these blondies are sure to impress.
Quick and Simple
You don’t need any special kitchen skills to whip up a batch of these Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies. The entire process is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques or equipment. Plus, they come together quickly—perfect for those busy days when you need a sweet treat in a hurry!
Make Ahead and Freeze
One of my favorite things about these blondies is their fantastic storage qualities. You can make a large batch, store them in an airtight container, or even freeze them for later. This means you can always have a delicious dessert on hand, ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.
Customizable
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste. Add in different mix-ins like nuts or white chocolate chips, or even use other dried fruits. The base is so adaptable that you can experiment with flavors while keeping that wonderful chewy texture intact!
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies Shopping List
When crafting your Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies, the ingredients are key. Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Using quality butter, brown sugar, and fresh cranberries will elevate the recipe to new heights. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 stick, melted – The foundation of flavor and moisture in the blondies.
- 1 large egg – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed – Sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice for a cozy touch.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base that gives structure to the blondies.
- ¾ cup dried cranberries – Provides a tart contrast to the sweetness.
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For that indulgent, rich chocolate flavor.
Recipe Directions for Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Preparing Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps closely to create your own delicious batch!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While your oven is warming up, line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray to ensure your blondies release easily.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup unsalted butter on high power for about a minute. Watch it closely to prevent overheating. You want it just melted, not bubbling.
Let the melted butter cool for a moment, then add 1 large egg to the bowl. It’s important to wait a bit so the egg doesn’t scramble when it hits the hot butter. Stir in 1 cup light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a beautiful caramel-like consistency.
Now it’s time to fold in the dry ingredients. Add 1 cup all-purpose flour to the mixture and stir gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine the ingredients just until you see no more flour streaks. This ensures your blondies stay tender and chewy.
Next, fold in the ¾ cup dried cranberries and ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! The cranberries and chocolate will create bursts of flavor throughout the blondies.
Transfer the batter to your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top lightly. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; it adds to the homemade charm!
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 24 to 26 minutes. You want them to be golden on the edges and just set in the middle. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—but not wet batter!
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. This waiting time helps them firm up, making slicing easier and allowing the flavors to meld.
After cooling, lift the blondies out of the pan using the foil, slice them into squares, and serve. Enjoy your Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies warm or at room temperature!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep your blondies chewy.
- Cooling Time Matters: Allowing the blondies to cool helps them set up properly.
- Oven Variability: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary in temperature.
- Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality chocolate and butter for the best flavor.
Tips and Variations
There are countless ways to enjoy Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies, and I’m excited to share some tips and variations to enhance this recipe!
- Storage: Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Freezing: These blondies freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.
- Flavor Variations: Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
- Chocolate Swap: Try using white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips instead of semi-sweet for a unique twist.
- Serve Warm: For an indulgent treat, warm them slightly before serving and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pairing Suggestions for Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies
These Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Warm Beverages: They pair perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee, enhancing the cozy vibe of any gathering.
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
- Cheese Board: These blondies can also complement a cheese board, adding a sweet contrast to savory cheeses.
- Seasonal Fruits: Freshly sliced apples or pears on the side can add a refreshing element to the dessert.
- Picnics and Gatherings: These blondies are perfect for potlucks or picnics, making them easy to transport and share.
- Holiday Treats: They are a festive addition to any holiday dessert table, especially during Thanksgiving.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies are a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire, bringing together sweet and tart flavors in a delightful chewy treat. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, these blondies are sure to bring joy and warmth to any occasion.
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Wooden Spoon
- Whisk
- Frying Pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter 1 stick, melted
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 cup Light Brown Sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- ¾ cup Dried Cranberries I used orange-scented cranberries from Trader Joe’s
- ¾ cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While your oven is warming up, line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray to ensure your blondies release easily.
- In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup unsalted butter on high power for about a minute. Watch it closely to prevent overheating. You want it just melted, not bubbling.
- Let the melted butter cool for a moment, then add 1 large egg to the bowl. It’s important to wait a bit so the egg doesn’t scramble when it hits the hot butter. Stir in 1 cup light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a beautiful caramel-like consistency.
- Now it’s time to fold in the dry ingredients. Add 1 cup all-purpose flour to the mixture and stir gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine the ingredients just until you see no more flour streaks. This ensures your blondies stay tender and chewy.
- Next, fold in the ¾ cup dried cranberries and ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! The cranberries and chocolate will create bursts of flavor throughout the blondies.
- Transfer the batter to your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top lightly. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; it adds to the homemade charm!
- Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 24 to 26 minutes. You want them to be golden on the edges and just set in the middle. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—but not wet batter!
- Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. This waiting time helps them firm up, making slicing easier and allowing the flavors to meld.
- After cooling, lift the blondies out of the pan using the foil, slice them into squares, and serve. Enjoy your Cranberry Chocolate Chip Blondies warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Storage: Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Freezing: These blondies freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.
