Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry yesterday, I stumbled upon a can of cherry pie filling that begged for attention. It got me thinking: what if I could whip up something easy yet utterly delightful to satisfy my sweet tooth? Enter these Cherry Blondies, a deliciously fudgy treat that brilliantly combines tart cherries with creamy white chocolate and crunchy almonds. Not only are these blondies a wonderful take on traditional desserts, but they can also be prepped in a mere 10 minutes, making them perfect for those busy days when you need a quick, homemade dessert fix. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and vegetarian, so you can enjoy indulgence without breaking the bank. Are you ready to create a gooey, irresistible dessert that will make your kitchen smell divine? Let’s dive in! Why Are Cherry Blondies So Irresistible? Fudgy Texture: These Cherry Blondies boast a deliciously chewy, fudgy center that will remind you of brownies, but with a unique twist! Quick Prep: In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dessert without hassle, perfect for those last-minute gatherings or midnight cravings. Flavor Harmony: The tart cherries paired with creamy white chocolate and crunchy almonds create a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Budget-Friendly: Enjoy this indulgent treat without overspending—these blondies are easy on the wallet, making them perfect for any occasion. Endless Variations: Feel free to play around with the ingredients! Try using fresh cherries or mix in different nuts for a personalized touch. For more delightful cherry recipes, check out Chocolate Cherry Upside and Cherry Earl Grey. Indulging in these Cherry Blondies means more than just a dessert; it’s about creating memories in your kitchen! Cherry Blondies Ingredients For the Batter All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the blondies; use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. Baking powder – A leavening agent to help the blondies rise; no substitutions are recommended for optimal texture. Salt – Enhances flavors; can be omitted for a low-sodium version, but a bit of saltiness is recommended. Large egg – Acts as a binder for moisture and richness; substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option. Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; can be replaced with equal parts almond extract if needed. Almond extract – Provides a nutty flavor; use sparingly as it can be potent. Cherry pie filling – Adds sweet-tart flavor without the fuss of fresh cherries; if using fresh cherries, ensure they are well-dried. Salted butter – Offers richness and flavor; margarine can be used for dairy-free versions. Granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the texture; no direct substitutions are recommended. Brown sugar – Enhances moisture and chewiness with its molasses content; can substitute with coconut sugar for a unique twist. White chocolate chips – Add creamy sweetness; feel free to swap them for semi-sweet chocolate for a different taste. Slivered almonds – Provide delightful crunch and a nutty flavor; can be substituted with chopped pecans or walnuts, or omitted altogether. Now that you have your Cherry Blondies ingredients ready, get excited to whip up a treat that’s sure to become a family favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Blondies Step 1: Preheat Oven Begin by greasing and lining an 8×8” baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. This temperature will create the ideal environment for your Cherry Blondies to rise beautifully and develop that perfect golden crust. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt, making sure there are no lumps. This essential step will help incorporate air into the dry ingredients, ensuring your blondies have a delightful chewy texture. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients. Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients In another mixing bowl, combine 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, and 1 cup of cherry pie filling. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined, creating a luscious, fruity mixture that will provide flavor and moisture to your Cherry Blondies. Step 4: Brown Butter Cut ½ cup of salted butter into cubes and melt it in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5-8 minutes until it turns frothy and develops a nutty brown color. This browning will infuse your Cherry Blondies with a rich and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your delicious dessert. Step 5: Combine Wet Mix Carefully pour the browned butter into a large mixing bowl and add ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Mix with a whisk or spatula until well incorporated, creating a smooth, shiny mixture. This blend of sugars with butter is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy consistency. Step 6: Incorporate Cherry Mix Gradually add the cherry mixture to the butter-sugar blend, stirring until fully combined. The combination of flavors at this stage is important; it ensures that the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the batter, leading to that wonderful cherry flavor in each bite of your Cherry Blondies. Step 7: Combine Mixtures Slowly fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to gently combine until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix. A thick batter should form, indicating that your Cherry Blondies are on their way to becoming a gooey, delightful treat. Step 8: Add Chocolate and Nuts Gently fold in ½ cup of white chocolate chips and ½ cup of slivered almonds into the batter, ensuring an even distribution. This step adds extra sweetness and crunch, making your Cherry Blondies even more indulgent. The mixture should be thick and studded with the chocolate and almonds. Step 9: Bake Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate chips and almonds on top. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Watch for a golden edge to show they are ready. Step 10: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the Cherry Blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing. They may appear slightly gooey in the center—this is ideal for that fudgy texture! Once cool, slice them and indulge in the cherry-filled delight you’ve just created. Cherry Blondies Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delightful Cherry Blondies! Fresh Cherries: Swap canned cherry pie filling for fresh cherries for a seasonal twist. Just make sure to pit and dry them for the best results! Nutty Alternatives: Use pecans or walnuts instead of slivered almonds for a different crunch and flavor. Each nut brings a unique texture that will add depth to your blondies. Flavored Extracts: Experiment with hazelnut or coconut extracts for a new flavor profile. This simple swap can transport your blondies to a whole new level of deliciousness. Dairy-Free: Substitute margarine for butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make the blondies suitable for dairy-free diets. Your taste buds won’t miss a beat! Brown Sugar Twist: Try using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a unique taste and a hint of caramel flavor, plus it’s a great option for those on a refined sugar-free diet. Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the batter to introduce warmth and spice. It’s a cozy touch that’s perfect for any sweet treat. Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, mix in a tablespoon of orange zest to capture that bright citrus note which pairs beautifully with cherry! No Bake Option: For a quick fix, consider making no-bake cherry blondies by using a mixture of crushed graham crackers, butter, and cherries, chilled until firm for a refreshing twist. Don’t forget, if you’re in the mood for more fruity delights, check out Chocolate Cherry Upside and Cherry Earl Grey. Happy baking! What to Serve with Fudgy Cherry Blondies These fudgy Cherry Blondies are the perfect centerpiece for a delightful dessert spread, inviting a world of complementary flavors and textures. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly over the warm blondies, enhancing their sweet-tart flavor with a velvety texture. Fresh Berries: The bright acidity of fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a vibrant contrast that elevates the cherry flavors beautifully. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream crowns the blondies, lending a luscious cloud-like finish that everyone will adore. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle rich chocolate sauce over the blondies for an extra layer of indulgence; the combination of cherry and chocolate is simply heavenly. Almond Milk: A glass of chilled almond milk enhances the nutty notes of the blondies, making it an ideal, refreshing pairing. Nutty Coffee: A cup of nut-flavored coffee or a mocha brings warmth and depth to the dessert experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy coconut treats add an intriguing twist and delightful chew, harmonizing beautifully with the blondies’ almond flavor. Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea offers a refreshing end to your meal, cleansing the palette and leaving a wonderful aftertaste alongside the sweetness of the blondies. Chocolate Covered Cherries: For the ultimate cherry experience, chocolate covered cherries provide a rich, fruity indulgence that complements the blondies flawlessly. How to Store and Freeze Cherry Blondies Room Temperature: Keep your Cherry Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This ensures they stay moist and tasty while being ready for last-minute snacks. Fridge: For longer preservation, store the blondies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and fudgy for those indulgent cravings. Freezer: Freeze Cherry Blondies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for a quick treat. Reheating: To enjoy your frozen blondies, let them come to room temperature, or pop them in a warm oven for about 10 minutes. They’ll taste fresh-baked again! Make Ahead Options These Cherry Blondies are a fantastic treat for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in the refrigerator; this keeps the flavors fresh and prevents overmixing. Additionally, you can brown the butter ahead and store it at room temperature, just make sure to allow it to cool before adding it to the batter. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the mixtures, fold in the white chocolate and almonds, and transfer to the baking dish. You’ll enjoy the same delicious, fudgy texture with just a bit of extra prep time saved for your busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Perfect Cherry Blondies Butter Browning Watch: Monitor the butter closely while it browns to prevent burning. Look for a nutty aroma and a rich brown color for the best flavor. Baking Time Adjustment: Oven performance can vary. Watch your blondies closely, and adjust baking time as necessary. The center should remain gooey for the ideal chewy texture. Fresh vs. Canned Cherries: If using fresh cherries, ensure they are well-dried to avoid excess moisture in your blondies. This keeps them perfectly fudgy! Mixing Technique: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense blondies. Aim for a thick batter to maintain that delightful texture. Storage for Freshness: Store any leftover Cherry Blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 4 days, perfect for those late-night cravings! Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different nuts or flavored extracts! This can elevate your Cherry Blondies to a new level of deliciousness. Cherry Blondies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best cherries for my blondies? Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is convenient, fresh cherries can elevate your blondies. Look for cherries that are firm, shiny, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using fresh cherries, ensure they’re pitted and patted dry before mixing them into your batter to avoid excess moisture. How should I store leftover Cherry Blondies? To keep your Cherry Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Always let them cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess! Can I freeze Cherry Blondies? Very! Freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. What should I do if my blondies turn out too dry? If your Cherry Blondies are dry, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To avoid this, use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour; scoop the flour with a spoon into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time, and remember that they should be slightly gooey in the center for that perfect fudgy texture! Are Cherry Blondies suitable for people with nut allergies? Absolutely! If someone has nut allergies, simply omit the slivered almonds. You can also use dairy-free butter and chocolate, and replace the eggs with applesauce to make these blondies vegan and allergy-friendly. Always check your ingredients to ensure they are free from cross-contamination if you’re serving those with allergies. Can pets eat Cherry Blondies? It’s best not to share Cherry Blondies with pets. Ingredients like chocolate and sugars are not suitable for dogs, and some nuts can be harmful. While your furry friends may beg for a piece, it’s safer to stick to pet-friendly treats! Chewy Cherry Blondies: A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion Delight in these Cherry Blondies, a fudgy dessert combining cherries, white chocolate, and almonds, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 9 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter1 cup all-purpose flour Gluten-free option: use a gluten-free flour blend.1 teaspoon baking powder No substitutions are recommended.1 pinch salt Can be omitted for a low-sodium version.1 large egg Substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.1 teaspoon vanilla extract Can be replaced with equal parts almond extract.1 teaspoon almond extract Use sparingly as it can be potent.1 cup cherry pie filling Ensure fresh cherries are well-dried if used.1/2 cup salted butter Margarine can be used for dairy-free versions.1/2 cup granulated sugar No direct substitutions are recommended.1/2 cup brown sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar for a unique twist.1/2 cup white chocolate chips Can swap for semi-sweet chocolate.1/2 cup slivered almonds Can be substituted with chopped pecans or walnuts. Equipment 8x8 baking dishMixing bowlsWhiskSpatulasaucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cherry BlondiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8x8” baking dish with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.Combine the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cherry pie filling in another bowl, mixing thoroughly.Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until it turns nutty brown in color.Pour the browned butter into a large bowl and mix in the granulated and brown sugar until well incorporated.Gradually stir in the cherry mixture into the butter-sugar blend until fully combined.Fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just incorporated to form a thick batter.Fold in the white chocolate chips and slivered almonds, ensuring an even distribution.Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly, and bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.Let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg NotesMonitor the butter closely while browning to prevent burning. Adjust baking time as necessary for your oven. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
