Are you searching for that perfect dessert that combines festive flavors with crowd-pleasing appeal? cranberry blondies might just be the answer to your holiday baking dreams! These buttery, chewy bars studded with tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate create a beautiful contrast that’s irresistible to anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to indulge in a seasonal treat, these holiday blondies, Christmas bars, white chocolate desserts bring festive cheer to any table. The red cranberries against the golden blondie base make them visually stunning, while the flavor combination creates that perfect balance of sweetness and tang that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients List
For the perfect cranberry blondies, gather these ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds wonderful depth)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries tossed in 1 tablespoon flour)
- 1 cup premium white chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional for added texture)
Substitutions:
- Dried cherries can replace cranberries for a different tart flavor
- Dark or milk chocolate chips can substitute for white chocolate for a different flavor profile
- Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully in place of macadamia nuts
- Gluten-free flour blend can replace all-purpose flour (add ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum if not included in the blend)
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (10 minutes if using a stand mixer)
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour minimum
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
These cranberry blondies save you at least 30 minutes compared to more complex layered holiday desserts, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining. The active hands-on time is minimal, allowing you to multitask with other holiday preparations while they bake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides to create handles for easy removal. Lightly spray with cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.
Pro tip: Crease the parchment paper at the corners for a neater fit in the pan.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until completely combined and slightly lighter in color (about 2 minutes of vigorous whisking). This creates the signature caramelized flavor base of the blondies.
Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Troubleshooting tip: If your mixture looks separated, whisk vigorously for another minute to emulsify.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents for the perfect texture.
Step 4: Create the Batter
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Mix until just combined—overmixing leads to tough blondies. The batter will be thick and rich.
Baker’s secret: Stop mixing when you still see a few streaks of flour, as the final additions will be incorporated in the next step.
Step 5: Add the Star Ingredients
Gently fold in the cranberries, white chocolate chips, and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Reserve a small handful of each to sprinkle on top for a beautiful presentation.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved cranberries and white chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Critical tip: Do not overbake! Blondies should remain slightly soft in the center as they will continue to set while cooling.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 16 squares):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 30g
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Create lighter versions of these cranberry blondies with these substitutions:
- Reduced Sugar Option: Cut brown sugar to 1½ cups and use sugar-free white chocolate chips
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour
- Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water, let sit for 15 minutes)
- Lower Fat Option: Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a more cake-like texture
- Whole Grain Boost: Use white whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added fiber and nutrients
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your cranberry blondies with these serving ideas:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert
- Pair with a cup of spiced chai tea or peppermint hot chocolate for the ultimate holiday treat
- Create a dessert board with blondies as the centerpiece, surrounded by fresh berries and mint sprigs
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a snow-kissed appearance
- Drizzle with white chocolate ganache for an extra special presentation
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients: Room temperature eggs create a smoother, more emulsified batter.
- Overbaking: This is the #1 reason for dry blondies. Remove from oven when the center is still slightly underdone.
- Using low-quality white chocolate: Premium white chocolate with cocoa butter (not palm oil) melts better and tastes significantly better.
- Skipping the parchment paper: This makes removal and cutting nearly impossible without damaging your blondies.
- Cutting too soon: Allow complete cooling for clean, professional-looking squares.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Counter Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Extend freshness to 5-7 days in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in microwave.
- Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking. Allow to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Conclusion
These white chocolate cranberry blondies perfectly capture the festive spirit with their beautiful colors and complementary flavors. The buttery, chewy base provides the perfect canvas for the tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate, creating a dessert that’s sophisticated yet comforting. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping addition to your holiday dessert table or a thoughtful homemade gift, these blondies deliver both visual appeal and incredible taste. Give this recipe a try this season, and watch how quickly they disappear!
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh cranberries work beautifully but require a few adjustments. Chop them coarsely and toss with 1 tablespoon of flour before folding into the batter. You may want to increase the sugar by 2-3 tablespoons to balance their tartness.
Why did my blondies turn out cakey instead of chewy?
This usually happens when the batter is overmixed or overbaked. Mix just until ingredients are combined and remember that blondies continue to set as they cool. Also check that you measured the flour correctly—too much flour creates a cakey texture.
Can I make these blondies ahead for a party?
Absolutely! These actually improve in flavor after 24 hours as the ingredients meld together. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They’re perfect for make-ahead holiday planning.
How do I know when blondies are done baking?
The edges should be visibly golden brown and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool.
Can I add other mix-ins to the recipe?
Definitely! These blondies are incredibly versatile. Try adding orange zest, cinnamon, chopped dried apricots, or white chocolate-covered pretzel pieces for interesting flavor combinations while maintaining the holiday theme.
Name: Yumi Hwag
Byline: Founder & Recipe Developer, Yumimeals
Bio : Yumi tests weeknight-friendly air fryer, slow cooker, and BBQ recipes in a small home kitchen. She focuses on simple steps, real-family testing, and clear food-safety guidance. Contact: [email protected]