White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies
Friends sometimes ask me to make these for wedding receptions. For a fancier presentation, I cut the bars into triangle shapes and drizzle white chocolate over each one individually.
Friends sometimes ask me to make these for wedding receptions. For a fancier presentation, I cut the bars into triangle shapes and drizzle white chocolate over each one individually.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
- frosting:
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese softened
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 3/4 cup butter cubed
- 1-1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 6 ounces white baking chocolate coarsely chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest optional
- 6 ounces white baking chocolate melted
- Carbohydrate 127.596305708173 g
- Cholesterol 404.012500155467 mg
- Fat 112.357354971083 g
- Fiber 20.3490809572163 g
- Protein 23.5483564202146 g
- Saturated Fat 67.9413634372891 g
- Serving Size 1 1 dozen. (337g)
- Sodium 449.003320372432 mg
- Sugar 107.247224750957 g
- Trans Fat 7.03256234282193 g
- Calories 1434 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter; stir in the brown sugar. Cool slightly.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon; stir into butter mixture.
- Stir in cranberries and chopped chocolate (batter will be thick).
- Spread into a greased 13x9-in. pan.
- Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean (do not overbake), 18-21 minutes.
- Cool completely on a wire rack.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese, confectioners' sugar and, if desired, orange zest until smooth.
- Gradually beat in half of the melted white chocolate; spread over blondies.
- Sprinkle with cranberries; drizzle with remaining melted chocolate.
- Cut into triangles.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies: A Recipe for Every Occasion
These white chocolate cranberry blondies aren't just a delicious treat; they're a versatile dessert perfect for any gathering. From casual weeknight desserts to elegant wedding receptions, these blondies always impress. I've been making them for years, and the recipe has become a staple in my baking repertoire, requested by friends and family alike. The slightly tart cranberries perfectly complement the rich sweetness of the white chocolate, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward, even for beginner bakers. The batter comes together quickly, and the baking time is relatively short. However, don't rush the cooling process; letting the blondies cool completely before frosting ensures a beautifully smooth and even topping. I've experimented with different frosting variations, but the classic cream cheese frosting remains my personal favorite. The tangy cream cheese cuts through the sweetness of the blondies, adding another layer of complexity to the overall taste.
I've found that the presentation of these blondies can elevate them from a simple dessert to a showstopper. For casual settings, a simple cut into squares suffices. But for more formal occasions, such as weddings or holiday parties, I like to cut them into elegant triangles and drizzle each one with extra melted white chocolate. The added touch of white chocolate creates a visually appealing contrast against the deep brown of the blondies and adds another element of indulgence. This extra step makes them look incredibly sophisticated, far beyond the effort involved.
Beyond the weddings and parties, these blondies are a perfect treat for any occasion. They're delightful with a cup of coffee or tea on a lazy afternoon, a sweet ending to a busy workday, or a delicious addition to a holiday cookie tray. Their rich, chewy texture and the delightful combination of white chocolate and cranberries make them irresistible. I often find myself making a double batch, as they tend to disappear rather quickly! The recipe is easily doubled or even tripled to cater to larger gatherings, making it incredibly convenient for those who love to bake and share their creations. The recipe itself is pretty adaptable; feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or add nuts to create your own unique variation.
The recipe's versatility extends beyond the presentation and occasions. You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference by altering the amount of brown sugar. Similarly, if you're not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you could explore alternative options, such as a simple glaze or even a ganache. The possibilities are endless! This recipe has provided countless moments of joy, sharing sweet treats with loved ones. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, I encourage you to give these white chocolate cranberry blondies a try. They're guaranteed to be a hit.
The wonderful thing about baking is the opportunity to share. These blondies have brought smiles to countless faces, making them more than just a dessert; they’re a symbol of connection and celebration. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake some deliciousness. Remember to share the love (and the blondies!).
Tips and Variations:
- For a nuttier flavor: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
- For a different twist: Substitute dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips for the white chocolate.
- Make it festive: Add a sprinkle of festive sprinkles to the frosting for holidays or special occasions.
- Make it ahead: The blondies can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or preparing for parties ahead of time.
- Storage: Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Enjoy your baking journey, and happy baking!
