Save Chewy, buttery blondie bars swirled with maraschino cherries and a hint of cola, topped with a sweet cherry glaze. A playful twist on classic blondies that's perfect for parties or a fun dessert.
I first made these blondie bars for a summer picnic, and they quickly became the star attraction. Everyone loved the chewy texture and unexpected burst of cherry flavor combined with a subtle cola aroma.
Ingredients
- Blondie Base: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted, 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed, 1 large egg, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) cola (regular, not diet), 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt
- Cherries: 3/4 cup (120 g) maraschino cherries, drained, chopped, 2 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (reserved from jar)
- Cherry Glaze: 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, 2 tbsp maraschino cherry juice, 1:2 tsp cola (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Prep Equipment:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make Blondie Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg, vanilla, and cola. Whisk until fully combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Add Cherries:
- Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and 2 tbsp cherry juice.
- Bake:
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 28:32 minutes, until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool:
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, cherry juice, and enough cola to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
- Finish:
- Drizzle glaze over cooled blondies. Allow glaze to set before cutting into bars.
Save These bars are always requested for our family movie nights, and kids love helping drizzle the cherry glaze on top for a sweet finish.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, parchment paper, wire rack, small bowl (for glaze), spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories: 195, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 2 g per serving
Serving Suggestions
Serve with vanilla ice cream or pair with a sparkling rosé for a festive dessert experience.
Save Let the glazed bars set before slicing for cleaner edges. Enjoy these chewy treats fresh or store in an airtight container for up to three days.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use dried cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, dried cherries offer a less sweet option and add a chewy texture. Simply chop and substitute in equal measure.
- → What type of cola works best?
Regular cola provides the best flavor. Avoid diet versions as they may affect taste and texture.
- → How do I tell when the bars are baked?
The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- → Can I add white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and creamy bites.
- → Is there a substitute for cherry juice in the glaze?
Use cranberry juice or a mix of extra cola to achieve a similar tang and color in the glaze.
- → Are these bars vegetarian?
Yes, Cherry Cola Blondie Bars are vegetarian. Always check individual ingredient labels for additives.