Lemon Blackberry Blondies Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 16 servings and captures the perfect balance of tart blackberries and sweet, buttery blondie. Ingredient amounts can scale, but cooking times should remain unchanged.

Blondies

• 1 1/3 cups frozen blackberries
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice, or as needed
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream, or as needed

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides for easy removal.
2. Place frozen blackberries in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for about 2 minutes until thawed. Do not drain the juices.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, and salt with an electric mixer for 3 minutes until fluffy.
4. Add the thawed blackberries with their juices, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla. Beat for 3 more minutes until the blackberries are well incorporated; the mixture may appear slightly curdled.
5. Gradually mix in flour, cornstarch, and baking powder on low speed until fully combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bars are puffed and almost set but still soft in the center.
8. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes.
9. For the glaze, whisk together confectioners sugar, a pinch of salt, lemon juice, and heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the consistency with extra lemon juice or cream if needed.
10. Pour the glaze over the cooled bars and spread evenly. Let it set for 15 minutes.
11. Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 squares.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 172
• Total Fat: 7g (8%)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (20%)
• Cholesterol: 17mg (6%)
• Sodium: 92mg (4%)
• Total Carbohydrate: 28g (10%)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3%)
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 1g (2%)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (4%)
• Calcium: 17mg (1%)
• Iron: 1mg (3%)
• Potassium: 35mg (1%)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values may vary depending on individual calorie needs.

The Story Behind Lemon Blackberry Blondies

Lemon Blackberry Blondies, a modern twist on the traditional American blondie, combine the rich, buttery texture of classic blondies with the tart brightness of fresh lemons and the deep, juicy flavor of blackberries. Blondies themselves originated in the United States in the early 20th century, as a lighter alternative to chocolate brownies, often referred to as blonde brownies. The addition of fruit and citrus, like blackberries and lemon, became popular in the late 20th century as home bakers began experimenting with more vibrant flavors and visually appealing desserts.

Regional Variations and Influences

While the base recipe for lemon blackberry blondies is distinctly American, regional adaptations highlight local ingredients. In the Pacific Northwest, for example, fresh wild blackberries are often used instead of frozen, enhancing the natural sweetness and tartness. Coastal areas might incorporate lemon zest from local citrus orchards, giving the dessert a fresher, more aromatic profile. Some variations even include a drizzle of honey or a touch of lavender, reflecting regional culinary trends and the influence of artisanal baking.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

Although lemon blackberry blondies share similarities with brownies and bars, their flavor and texture set them apart. Unlike chocolate brownies, which are dense and fudgy, blondies are lighter and sweeter, relying on brown or white sugar for richness rather than cocoa. The inclusion of fresh fruit, particularly blackberries, creates pockets of moisture and a subtle tartness, complemented by a bright lemon glaze. This combination differentiates them from lemon bars, which typically have a shortbread crust and a lemon custard filling, rather than a chewy, buttery cake-like base.

Typical Serving Occasions

Lemon Blackberry Blondies are versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. They are often enjoyed as an afternoon tea treat, a summer picnic dessert, or a sweet ending to a casual dinner. Their vibrant color and appealing presentation make them a popular choice for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and brunch spreads. Many bakeries also feature them as a seasonal specialty, particularly when blackberries are at their peak.

Interesting Facts

• The desserts combination of lemon and berries not only provides a refreshing taste but also increases its vitamin C content.
• Blondies gained widespread popularity in the 1920s when boxed baking mixes became more common, allowing home bakers to experiment with flavors easily.
• Using frozen blackberries, as in this recipe, ensures that the fruit releases its juices evenly during baking, creating a natural, colorful marbling effect.
• The lemon glaze adds a decorative touch while balancing the sweetness, a technique borrowed from classic French ptisserie.
• Lemon Blackberry Blondies can be customized with nuts, white chocolate chips, or even a hint of ginger for added complexity.

FAQ about Lemon Blackberry Blondies Recipe