Fireworks Blondies

Fireworks Blondies are the ultimate dessert bar that you can whip up for any occasion! With their chewy texture and vibrant colors, these blondies are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for summer celebrations, birthday parties, or a simple family gathering, they are sure to impress. The addition of festive M&Ms and sprinkles makes them stand out, while the ease of preparation means you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute treats.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite candies or nuts to make these blondies your own!
• Soft and Chewy: These blondies come out perfectly soft and chewy every time, a textural delight with each bite.
• Festively Fun: The bright red, white, and blue M&Ms and sprinkles make these treats ideal for holiday celebrations like the 4th of July.
• Makes a Crowd Pleaser: With 24 bars per batch, they’re great for sharing at events or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth sailing in the kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• 9×13” baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes blending ingredients quick and effortless for a smooth batter.
• Baking pan: A 9×13” pan is perfect for achieving that ideal blondie thickness.
• Aluminum foil: Lining the pan with foil helps with easy removal and cleanup.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring your blondies come out perfectly without any hassle.

Ingredients

Fireworks Blondies – this EASY blondie recipe is the BEST EVER COOKIE BAR! It’s so soft and perfect with any additions, but especially with 4th of July M&Ms and sprinkles!

For the Base

• 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

For the Festive Touch

• 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). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it generously with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Use a stand or hand mixer to blend until crumbly. Then add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Incorporate the salt, baking powder, and then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour. Stir gently until just combined.

Step 4: Add Festive Ingredients

Fold in the M&Ms and patriotic sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Spread in Pan

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared pan. Since it’s wet, it helps to spray your hands with cooking spray to flatten it down smoothly. If desired, top with extra M&Ms for visual appeal.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for about 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them slightly underbaked so they remain soft as they cool.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Fireworks Blondies! Serve them warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat.

How to Serve Fireworks Blondies

Serving Fireworks Blondies can be a fun and festive experience, especially during celebrations like the 4th of July. These chewy bars are colorful and delightful, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of blondies. Serve warm blondies topped with a scoop for a delicious dessert.

Dressed Up with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and fluffy texture, making each bite even more enjoyable. Consider adding a sprinkle of extra M&Ms on top for color!

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A rich drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch. It complements the flavors while enhancing the visual appeal of your dessert table.

Served at Room Temperature

• Fireworks Blondies are delightful when served at room temperature. This allows their flavors to shine without being too gooey or too firm.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of blondies. Their tartness balances the dessert nicely.

For Parties and Potlucks

• Cut into smaller squares for easy serving at gatherings. They are portable, making them an excellent treat to bring along to any event.

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How to Perfect Fireworks Blondies

To achieve the best results when making Fireworks Blondies, follow these simple tips that ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Stale ingredients can result in dense blondies.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the texture chewy and soft. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures they are perfectly baked.
• Cool completely before cutting: Let blondies cool in the pan before slicing for cleaner cuts. This prevents them from crumbling apart.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness, or freeze them for longer storage.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to try different mix-ins like nuts or white chocolate chips for varied flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Fireworks Blondies

Complement your Fireworks Blondies with some delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of blondies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda paired with crackers for a savory contrast.
3. Sliced Watermelon: Refreshing watermelon slices offer hydration and a light palate cleanser alongside sweet treats.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent bites add elegance and enhance the dessert theme beautifully.
5. Mini Cupcakes: Provide additional sweet options that allow guests to indulge even further.
6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up toppings like sprinkles, nuts, and syrups so guests can customize their ice cream experience alongside blondies.
7. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix adds texture and is easy to grab while enjoying desserts at casual gatherings.
8. Coffee or Tea Service: A warm beverage helps balance out the sweetness while providing a comforting end to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fireworks Blondies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are a few common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep your blondies chewy and soft.
• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and butter for a better texture.
• Not lining the pan properly: Use foil and cooking spray to ensure easy removal and clean edges.
• Baking too long: Keep an eye on the time; underbaked blondies are gooey and delicious.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements: Precision matters; always measure ingredients properly for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Fireworks Blondies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Fireworks Blondies

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Fireworks Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place blondies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds on medium power for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Fireworks Blondies.

Can I use different types of M&Ms in Fireworks Blondies?

Yes! Feel free to use any color or type of M&M you prefer. They all add great flavor!

Are Fireworks Blondies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These blondies freeze well, making them perfect for make-ahead treats.

How do I know when my Fireworks Blondies are done baking?

Look for a golden top and slight puffiness. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

What can I add to customize my Fireworks Blondies?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for extra texture and flavor!

Do I need special equipment to make Fireworks Blondies?

No special equipment is needed! A mixing bowl and a pan will do the job perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Fireworks Blondies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins to suit any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July or just want a fun dessert, these blondie bars will impress everyone. Give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!