Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies Simple and Tasty Treat

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Do you love treats that are both easy to make and delicious? If so, you’ll adore these Cranberry White Chocolate Blondies! This sweet recipe blends tart cranberries with creamy white chocolate, creating a perfect balance of flavors. In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of whipping up these tasty blondies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a dessert for yourself, these blondies are the perfect choice!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of tart cranberries with creamy white chocolate creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward with simple ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  3. Perfect for Any Occasion: These blondies are great for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in, bringing joy to any gathering.
  4. Texture Heaven: The chewy texture combined with the crunch of pecans (if added) makes each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

Detailed list of ingredients

To make cranberry white chocolate blondies, you need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Measurements and substitutions

You can make some changes if you need. Instead of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter. Just skip the added salt in the recipe. For sugar, coconut sugar is a great swap for brown sugar. If you want a lighter treat, you can use light brown sugar. You can also use egg substitutes like applesauce or mashed banana if you need a vegan option.

Optional ingredients for added flavor

For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest. It gives a nice citrus flavor. You can also swap out cranberries for other dried fruits, like cherries or apricots. If you love nuts, add walnuts instead of pecans. These little changes can make your blondies even more fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the oven and baking pan

First, you need to get your oven ready. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take a 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the blondies easily later.

Mixing wet ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl. Pour in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk these together until smooth. Then, crack in 2 large eggs. Add them one at a time, mixing well after each. Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Combining dry ingredients and mixing the batter

In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined. Slowly add this mixture to your wet ingredients. Use a spatula and stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix, or your blondies could turn out tough.

Folding in add-ins and preparation for baking

Now it’s time to add some fun! Fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, 1 cup of white chocolate chips, and if you like, 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Make sure these goodies are evenly mixed into the batter. Once done, pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly for even baking.

Baking time and cooling process

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Best practices for baking blondies

To bake the best blondies, start with room-temperature ingredients. This helps them mix well. Use a light-colored pan for even baking. Grease the pan lightly or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift out the blondies later. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. This ensures your blondies rise and bake evenly.

How to achieve the perfect texture

For soft and chewy blondies, do not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined. When you fold in the cranberries and white chocolate chips, be gentle. This helps keep the blondies tender. Bake them until the edges are golden. The center should be set but still moist. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Common pitfalls to avoid

One common mistake is using cold butter. Always melt the butter first. This step adds flavor and moisture. Avoid using too much flour. Measuring accurately is key. Scoop the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. If your blondies come out too dry, it could be because of overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. Finally, let them cool before cutting. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your blondies.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to prevent the blondies from becoming tough. A few lumps are okay!
  3. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures your blondies are perfectly chewy.
  4. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the blondies to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from falling apart. This also helps enhance their flavor!

Variations

Swapping cranberries for other fruits

You can swap cranberries for many fruits. Consider using dried cherries or blueberries. Fresh fruits like raspberries or chopped apples can also work. Each fruit adds its unique taste and texture. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on sweetness.

Different types of chocolate chips

You don’t have to stick with white chocolate chips. You can try dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips. Each type gives a different flavor. You can even mix different chocolates for a fun twist. It’s a great way to customize your blondies to your taste.

Nut alternatives and additions

If you want to change things up, try different nuts. Walnuts or almonds add a nice crunch. You can also skip nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free treat. Try adding seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra texture. Each choice can make your blondies special and unique.

Storage Information

Best ways to store leftovers

To keep your cranberry white chocolate blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents them from drying out. You can place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They will stay good at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to return them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

How to freeze blondies for future enjoyment

Freezing blondies is easy and a great way to save some for later. First, let them cool completely after baking. Next, cut them into squares or rectangles. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating instructions for optimal taste

To enjoy your blondies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet and cover them lightly with foil. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps them soft and gooey. For a quick fix, you can also use the microwave. Heat a single piece for about 10 to 15 seconds. This way, the chocolate chips will melt slightly, making each bite delicious!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. They will add a tart flavor. However, fresh cranberries are more watery. This may change the texture. I suggest slightly increasing the sugar. This helps balance the tartness. If you do this, your blondies will still taste great.

How can I make these blondies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free blondies, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum. This helps bind the ingredients. Your blondies will still be soft and tasty. Just be careful while mixing; gluten-free dough can be a bit different.

What are some serving suggestions for blondies?

You can serve blondies warm or cool. They taste great with a scoop of ice cream. Try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Fresh whipped cream is also a nice touch. Serve them with coffee or tea for a cozy treat. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Can I add frosting to my blondies?

Yes, you can add frosting. Cream cheese frosting pairs well with these blondies. You can also use a simple buttercream. Just keep it light so it does not overpower the blondies. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a nice contrast. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!

You now have all the tools to bake delicious blondies. We explored essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips. You learned about fun variations to personalize your treat and how to store leftovers well. Each section aimed to help you bake with ease and confidence.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to try new flavors or textures. Happy baking! Enjoy your blondies, and share them with friends and famil

To make cranberry white chocolate blondies, you need the following ingredients: - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 cup dried cranberries - 1 cup white chocolate chips - 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) You can make some changes if you need. Instead of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter. Just skip the added salt in the recipe. For sugar, coconut sugar is a great swap for brown sugar. If you want a lighter treat, you can use light brown sugar. You can also use egg substitutes like applesauce or mashed banana if you need a vegan option. For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest. It gives a nice citrus flavor. You can also swap out cranberries for other dried fruits, like cherries or apricots. If you love nuts, add walnuts instead of pecans. These little changes can make your blondies even more fun! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, you need to get your oven ready. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take a 9x13 inch baking pan. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the blondies easily later. Grab a large mixing bowl. Pour in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk these together until smooth. Then, crack in 2 large eggs. Add them one at a time, mixing well after each. Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined. Slowly add this mixture to your wet ingredients. Use a spatula and stir gently until just combined. Don't overmix, or your blondies could turn out tough. Now it’s time to add some fun! Fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, 1 cup of white chocolate chips, and if you like, 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Make sure these goodies are evenly mixed into the batter. Once done, pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly for even baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy! To bake the best blondies, start with room-temperature ingredients. This helps them mix well. Use a light-colored pan for even baking. Grease the pan lightly or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift out the blondies later. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. This ensures your blondies rise and bake evenly. For soft and chewy blondies, do not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined. When you fold in the cranberries and white chocolate chips, be gentle. This helps keep the blondies tender. Bake them until the edges are golden. The center should be set but still moist. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs. One common mistake is using cold butter. Always melt the butter first. This step adds flavor and moisture. Avoid using too much flour. Measuring accurately is key. Scoop the flour into the measuring cup and level it off. If your blondies come out too dry, it could be because of overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. Finally, let them cool before cutting. This helps them set and makes cutting easier. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your blondies. Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to prevent the blondies from becoming tough. A few lumps are okay! Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures your blondies are perfectly chewy. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the blondies to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from falling apart. This also helps enhance their flavor! {{image_2}} You can swap cranberries for many fruits. Consider using dried cherries or blueberries. Fresh fruits like raspberries or chopped apples can also work. Each fruit adds its unique taste and texture. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on sweetness. You don't have to stick with white chocolate chips. You can try dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips. Each type gives a different flavor. You can even mix different chocolates for a fun twist. It’s a great way to customize your blondies to your taste. If you want to change things up, try different nuts. Walnuts or almonds add a nice crunch. You can also skip nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free treat. Try adding seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra texture. Each choice can make your blondies special and unique. To keep your cranberry white chocolate blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents them from drying out. You can place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They will stay good at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to return them to room temperature before serving for the best taste. Freezing blondies is easy and a great way to save some for later. First, let them cool completely after baking. Next, cut them into squares or rectangles. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. To enjoy your blondies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet and cover them lightly with foil. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps them soft and gooey. For a quick fix, you can also use the microwave. Heat a single piece for about 10 to 15 seconds. This way, the chocolate chips will melt slightly, making each bite delicious! Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. They will add a tart flavor. However, fresh cranberries are more watery. This may change the texture. I suggest slightly increasing the sugar. This helps balance the tartness. If you do this, your blondies will still taste great. To make gluten-free blondies, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum. This helps bind the ingredients. Your blondies will still be soft and tasty. Just be careful while mixing; gluten-free dough can be a bit different. You can serve blondies warm or cool. They taste great with a scoop of ice cream. Try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Fresh whipped cream is also a nice touch. Serve them with coffee or tea for a cozy treat. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings. Yes, you can add frosting. Cream cheese frosting pairs well with these blondies. You can also use a simple buttercream. Just keep it light so it does not overpower the blondies. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a nice contrast. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors! You now have all the tools to bake delicious blondies. We explored essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips. You learned about fun variations to personalize your treat and how to store leftovers well. Each section aimed to help you bake with ease and confidence. Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be afraid to try new flavors or textures. Happy baking! Enjoy your blondies, and share them with friends and family.

Cranberry Bliss Blondies

Delicious blondies with cranberries and white chocolate, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  • Add in the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined.
  • Fold in the cranberries, white chocolate chips, and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Once cool, cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Notes

Optional pecans can be added for extra crunch.
Keyword blondies, cranberries, dessert, white chocolate

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