Cranberry Orange Blondies are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion! This delectable dessert combines the tartness of cranberries with the vibrant zest of fresh oranges, all enveloped in a rich, buttery blondie base. These bars are not only easy to make but they also make a great addition to your dessert table, satisfying all your sweet cravings!
Table of Contents
- Cranberry Orange Blondies Recipe
- Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Blondies
- How to Make Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Tips for Making Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Reheating Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Serving Suggestions
- Try these Cranberry Orange Blondies related recipes next!
- Easy Chocolate Chip Blondies
- Pumpkin Blondies
- Maple Pecan Blondies
- Brown Butter Blondies
Cranberry Orange Blondies Recipe
- Perfect for Any Occasion. These blondies combine the sweetness of brown sugar with the tangy flavor of cranberries, balanced perfectly by the freshness of orange zest, making them an irresistible treat! Whether for a holiday gathering or an everyday dessert, they’ll be a hit!
- Easy to Make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these blondies can be whipped up in no time, perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Unsalted Butter: The base of the blondie, providing a rich and buttery flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture, making the blondies softer.
- Granulated Sugar: For added sweetness and structure.
- Eggs: Helps to bind the ingredients together and provides moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of the blondies; do not over-mix to keep them chewy.
- Dried Cranberries: Offers a sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture; feel free to swap with fresh cranberries if in season.
- Orange Zest: Fresh orange zest elevates the flavor profile with a citrusy brightness.
- Baking Powder: Helps the blondies to rise slightly, making them light and fluffy.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the blondies and balances the sweetness.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in both sugars until fully combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until each one is incorporated. Stir in the orange zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently.
- Stir in the dried cranberries until evenly dispersed within the batter.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting out and cutting into squares.
Tips for Making Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh orange zest and good-quality dried cranberries.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the blondies while they bake; overbaking can lead to dry edges. Stick to the recommended time and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- These blondies can be baked in advance and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing Cranberry Orange Blondies
- Once cooled, wrap individual blondie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying again.
Reheating Cranberry Orange Blondies
- To reheat, microwave a blondie square for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
- You can also reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
