Fireworks Blondies

Fireworks Blondies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any celebration! These rich and chewy cookie bars are perfect for the 4th of July or any festive occasion. With their vibrant red, white, and blue M&Ms, they not only taste amazing but also make a stunning addition to your dessert table. This easy blondie recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, combining soft texture with a burst of flavor from the candies and sprinkles.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Blondies
• How to Make Fireworks Blondies
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
• Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Spread in Pan
• Step 5: Bake
• How to Serve Fireworks Blondies
• With Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Sauce
• Topped with Fresh Fruit
• Garnished with Whipped Cream
• As Part of a Dessert Platter
• How to Perfect Fireworks Blondies
• Best Side Dishes for Fireworks Blondies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Fireworks Blondies
• Reheating Fireworks Blondies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of M&Ms?
• How do I know when my blondies are done?
• Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
• How should I store leftover Fireworks Blondies?
• Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these blondies in no time.
• Versatile Additions: Customize your Fireworks Blondies with different mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Celebrations: The festive colors make these cookie bars ideal for holidays, parties, or family gatherings.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a deliciously soft and chewy experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Great for Sharing: Cut them into bars and share with friends or take them to potlucks; they’re always a hit!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Fireworks Blondies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Stand or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or foil
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand or hand mixer: This tool makes mixing the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a smooth batter.
• 9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for creating thick, chewy blondies that bake evenly.
• Cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking, making it easier to remove the blondies from the pan.

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 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). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper. Don’t forget to spray it well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Use your stand or hand mixer on medium speed until it’s crumbly. Next, 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. Finally, fold in the colorful M&Ms and patriotic sprinkles, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Spread in Pan

Spread the blondie mixture into your prepared pan. Since the batter is wet, it’s helpful to spray your hands with cooking spray before smoothing it down for an even layer. Feel free to sprinkle extra M&Ms on top for decoration.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 22-25 minutes until they start turning golden around the edges. Remember, it’s better to slightly underbake them; they’ll continue cooking as they cool down. Enjoy your delicious Fireworks Blondies!

How to Serve Fireworks Blondies

Fireworks Blondies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether at a party or a cozy family gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the chewy blondies perfectly.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this combo adds richness and depth to each bite.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce drizzled over the top adds sweetness and an indulgent touch.
• Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce creates a decadent finish that enhances the flavors of the blondies.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Banana Slices: Ripe banana slices provide natural sweetness and pair wonderfully with the blondie’s flavors.

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings lightness and pairs beautifully with the dense blondies.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Add a hint of vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Board: Serve alongside cookies, brownies, and other treats for a stunning dessert layout that invites everyone to indulge.

How to Perfect Fireworks Blondies

To achieve the best results when making Fireworks Blondies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your blondies turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep blondies soft and chewy; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Check for Doneness Early: Since they continue cooking after you take them out of the oven, check them at the lower end of the baking time.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Let them cool fully before slicing; this helps maintain their shape and makes cutting easier.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to retain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Fireworks Blondies

Fireworks Blondies make an exciting dessert on their own, but they can also be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some delicious options you can serve alongside them.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of blondies wonderfully.
2. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.
3. Nutty Trail Mix: This crunchy mix offers texture and flavor balance when paired with soft blondies.
4. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or tea complements dessert nicely while inviting guests to linger.
5. Popsicles: Cool popsicles offer a fun contrast in temperature and can add variety to your dessert spread.
6. Mini Cupcakes: These bite-sized treats provide additional flavors while keeping portions manageable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Fireworks Blondies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dessert shines. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F. If the temperature is off, your blondies may bake unevenly or become dry.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough blondies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Skipping parchment paper can result in sticky blondies that stick to the pan. Use foil and spray with cooking spray for easy removal.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your blondies as they bake. They should be golden but slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Check your baking powder and flour dates to ensure optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Containers: Place in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Fireworks Blondies

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or airtight container.

Reheating Fireworks Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place blondies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Feel free to explore these answers about making Fireworks Blondies!

Can I use different types of M&Ms?

Yes! You can customize your blondies by using any color or type of M&Ms you prefer, including peanut or crispy varieties.

How do I know when my blondies are done?

Look for a golden top and edges pulling away from the sides of the pan. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in nuts or chocolate chips along with the M&Ms for added texture and flavor.

How should I store leftover Fireworks Blondies?

Keep your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum for best results.

Final Thoughts

These Fireworks Blondies are not only soft and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or seasonal sprinkles. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe at home; it’s perfect for any celebration!