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Craving a Sweet Treat That’s Easy and Impressive?
Let’s be honest, sometimes you need a dessert that’s not only incredibly delicious but also super simple to make. Enter these decadent blondies – the perfect balance of chewy, buttery, and utterly irresistible. Get ready to bake up a batch that everyone will rave about!
Why You’ll Love It
- These blondies have a perfectly chewy texture with a slightly crisp edge, making each bite satisfying.
- The rich, buttery flavor is enhanced with brown sugar and a hint of vanilla, creating a deeply comforting taste.
- They come together in just one bowl, which means less mess and easier cleanup.
- They’re customizable! Add your favorite chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit for a personalized treat.
- Blondies are perfect for any occasion – potlucks, picnics, or just a cozy night in.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What sets these blondies apart is the specific ratio of butter to brown sugar, which is essential for creating that signature chewy texture. Unlike some recipes that rely on leavening agents for lift, these are denser and richer, focusing on pure, unadulterated flavor. The use of melted butter also adds to the moistness and contributes to the irresistible buttery taste that sets them apart from other blondies recipes.
Ingredient List
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to help remove the blondies easily.
- In a large bowl, pour the melted butter and add the brown sugar. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the mixture, and whisk until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the salt and then gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.
Optional Toppings/Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle melted caramel over the batter before baking and swirl it in with a knife.
- Sea Salt Flakes: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top of the blondies immediately after taking them out of the oven. This will give a nice contrast of sweet and salty.
- Different Chocolate: Try using white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips instead of milk chocolate.
Expert Tips
- Use melted butter that is still warm, this helps with the dissolving of the sugar, and will give a more chewy final texture.
- Don’t overbake your blondies! They are ready when the edges are set, and the middle is still slightly soft to the touch. Overbaking will result in dry blondies.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour has been added as it can develop gluten, which will lead to tough blondies.
- Use good quality chocolate chips – it makes a big difference to the flavor.
- Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into them, so that they set properly and don’t fall apart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar?
While it is possible, using granulated sugar will significantly alter the texture and flavor of the blondies. We recommend using light brown sugar for that signature chewy texture.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These blondies can be baked a day ahead, stored in an airtight container at room temperature, and will taste just as great the next day.
- How should I store leftover blondies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Can I freeze these blondies?
Absolutely! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow them to defrost at room temperature before serving.
- Can I add nuts to the batter?
Yes, feel free to add up to 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the batter along with the chocolate chips. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them will intensify their flavor.
Variations and Customization Options
These blondies are a fantastic base recipe for many variations! Here are a few to get you started:
- Peanut Butter Blondies: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the batter for a delicious nutty twist. Swirl some extra peanut butter on top before baking for a gorgeous visual effect.
- Salted Caramel Pecan Blondies: Use toffee bits, pecans, and a drizzle of homemade caramel to transform them into a decadent delight.
- Lemon Raspberry Blondies: Add lemon zest and a few dollops of raspberry jam for a fruity and tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
These blondies are delicious on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or alongside a cup of warm coffee or tea. They’re also great for packing in lunchboxes or bringing to potlucks. For an extra touch, you can lightly warm them in the microwave before serving to make them extra gooey.
Conclusion
These blondies are not only delicious and easy to make, but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. The chewy texture and rich flavor make them irresistible. Try this recipe for yourself and share your creations with us! Don’t forget to tag us in your pictures. Happy baking!
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