Fireworks Blondies
Fireworks Blondies are the ultimate cookie bar that bring joy to any celebration! These easy-to-make blondies are soft, chewy, and perfect for sharing at parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. With colorful M&Ms and sprinkles, they not only taste fantastic but also look festive and fun. This dessert is especially great for the 4th of July or any occasion where you want to add a splash of color and sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have these delicious blondies in the oven in no time.
- Endless Customization: Feel free to swap out M&Ms or add nuts for a personal touch. The base recipe is versatile!
- Perfectly Chewy Texture: These blondies offer a delightful soft and chewy bite that everyone loves.
- Great for Sharing: With 24 bars per batch, they’re ideal for gatherings or as gifts to friends and family.
- Festive Appearance: The vibrant colors from the M&Ms and sprinkles make them a standout treat on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Fireworks Blondies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for creating thick, chewy bars that cut well.
- Cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of blondies from the pan without sticking.
Ingredients
For the Blondies
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (400g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups red white, and blue M&Ms
- ½ cup patriotic sprinkles
How to Make Fireworks Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with foil, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and packed brown sugar. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed until crumbly. Add in the large eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Stir in the salt, baking powder, then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour. Finally, fold in the colorful M&Ms and patriotic sprinkles until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Spread in Pan
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Since the batter is wet, it’s helpful to spray your hands with cooking spray before smoothing it down evenly. You can also add extra M&Ms on top if you wish for a more decorated look.
Step 4: Bake
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should start turning golden around the edges but remain soft in the center. It’s better to err on underbaking slightly since they will continue to cook as they cool.
Enjoy your delicious Fireworks Blondies!
How to Serve Fireworks Blondies
Fireworks Blondies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the rich flavor of blondies.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream: Adds a fun twist with extra sweetness and texture.
As a Party Snack
- Cut into Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to create festive shapes for parties and celebrations.
- Serve on Colorful Platters: Arrange the blondies on vibrant platters to make them visually appealing at gatherings.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries: The tartness of strawberries balances the sweetness of blondies.
- Mixed Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries add freshness and color.
Dressed Up with Toppings
- Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle takes these blondies to another level of indulgence.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture.
How to Perfect Fireworks Blondies
To achieve the best-ever Fireworks Blondies, consider these helpful tips that ensure a delightful outcome.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and butter are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your blondies soft and chewy.
- Check for Doneness Early: Start checking around 22 minutes; they should be slightly underbaked for a gooey texture.
- Cool Completely Before Cutting: Let them cool fully in the pan for cleaner cuts and better shape.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Best Side Dishes for Fireworks Blondies
Fireworks Blondies can be paired with delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert spread. Here are some tasty options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of blondies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds sophistication and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of blondie into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Mini Cupcakes: Offer a variety of mini cupcakes to complement the flavors of your blondies.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light, creamy side dish.
- Nutty Trail Mix: Provide a crunchy alternative that pairs well with the soft texture of blondies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Fireworks Blondies, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a perfect batch. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your blondies tough. Stir just until combined for a softer texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into warm blondies may result in a gooey mess. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for neat bars.
- Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking powder or stale M&Ms can affect the taste. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before baking.
- Baking Too Long: Overbaking can lead to dry blondies. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are slightly underbaked.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Fireworks Blondies in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Fireworks Blondies
- Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap for best results.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Fireworks Blondies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat with a lid; heat for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Fireworks Blondies:
Can I customize my Fireworks Blondies?
Absolutely! You can add different mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to suit your taste.
How do I ensure my Fireworks Blondies are chewy?
Make sure not to overbake them; they should be slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.
What is the best way to cut Fireworks Blondies?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for clean edges.
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
What occasions are suitable for serving Fireworks Blondies?
These colorful treats are perfect for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or any festive gathering!
Final Thoughts
Fireworks Blondies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins and toppings, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Independence Day or just looking for a fun dessert, these chewy bars will delight everyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness!
Fireworks Blondies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant, chewy delight of Fireworks Blondies—your go-to dessert for any festive occasion! These colorful cookie bars combine the rich flavor of buttery blondies with the playful burst of red, white, and blue M&Ms and festive sprinkles. Perfect for summer picnics, birthday parties, or the Fourth of July, these easy-to-make treats will impress both kids and adults alike. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and yielding 24 generous squares, Fireworks Blondies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every celebration.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (400g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups red white, and blue M&Ms
- ½ cup patriotic sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil. Spray with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and brown sugar until crumbly. Add eggs and vanilla; mix until smooth.
- Stir in salt and baking powder before gradually adding flour. Fold in M&Ms and sprinkles until combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 22-25 minutes until golden around edges but still soft in the center.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
