If you have ever dreamed of a sweet treat that perfectly balances chewy, buttery richness with a hint of caramel sweetness, this Irresistible Blondies Recipe is your new best friend. These blondies are everything you love about classic brownies but with a warm, golden twist that comes from brown sugar and vanilla magic. Every bite melts in your mouth with just the right amount of texture from your favorite mix-ins, whether chocolate chips, butterscotch, or crunchy nuts. Trust me, once you try this recipe, reaching for another piece will be inevitable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, classic ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect blondies. From the fluff of the flour to the richness of melted butter, every component adds a unique touch to the final texture and flavor.
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (210g): Provides the structure and chewiness that blondies are known for.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps give the blondies a gentle lift and tender crumb.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Balances acidity and improves texture for softness.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors, ensuring nothing tastes flat.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (220g): The heart of the blondies’ signature caramel-like flavor and moist texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (113g): Adds unbeatable richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 large egg, room temperature: Binds everything together and helps create a chewy bite.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Amplifies the sweetness and adds a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 cup mix-ins (180g): Whether white chocolate chips, semi-sweet, butterscotch, or nuts, these give your blondies personality and delightful texture.
How to Make Irresistible Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave an overhang on two opposite sides for easy removal later. This simple preparation helps your blondies bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt, which is key to achieving that light and tender texture throughout your blondies.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, in a large mixing bowl, take the melted butter and brown sugar and whisk them together until you have a smooth, glossy mixture. Adding the egg and vanilla next, whisk vigorously until the batter thickens and becomes well combined. This step is where the base flavor starts to come alive, with the brown sugar infusing deep caramel notes.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula just until everything is combined. Then fold in ¾ cup of your chosen mix-ins, spreading those bursts of flavor evenly throughout the batter without overmixing, preserving the tender texture that makes these blondies utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Press the remaining ¼ cup of mix-ins on top to create an eye-catching, textured surface that will look as wonderful as it tastes when baked.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 32 to 36 minutes, keeping an eye on the edges, which should turn golden brown and look set. Insert a toothpick into the center to confirm it comes out clean, signaling perfection. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan; this step is crucial to allow the flavors to mature and the bars to firm up just right for cutting.
How to Serve Irresistible Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
While these blondies shine perfectly on their own, sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on top just before serving brings out an exciting contrast that elevates every bite. A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel sauce makes the presentation luxurious and extra tempting.
Side Dishes
Pair your blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a classic indulgence. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, cut these blondies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a pretty platter with colorful napkins. You can also sandwich two blondie squares around ice cream for handheld blondie sandwiches that will steal the show at any party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing
These blondies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares or the entire slab tightly with plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their wonderful taste or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy thawed blondies warm, microwave them for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This helps revive their soft, chewy perfection and that irresistible aroma.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter in this recipe?
While salted butter will work, it’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt, ensuring your blondies have the perfect balance of sweetness without being overly salty.
What mix-ins work best for blondies?
Classic choices include white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and walnuts. You can customize with pecans, almonds, or even dried fruit. Just choose something that adds texture and complements the buttery sweetness.
Can I substitute the flour with gluten-free options?
Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend typically works well. Be sure to check the blend’s ingredients and baking instructions as some may alter the texture slightly, but your blondies will still be delicious.
How thick should I spread the batter in the pan?
The batter should be spread evenly but not too thin, about 1 to 1½ inches thick in the pan. This thickness helps achieve that delectably chewy center while allowing the edges to crisp up nicely.
What is the key to chewy blondies?
The combination of brown sugar and melted butter, plus careful mixing and baking, gives the perfect chewy texture. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Blondies Recipe is one of those crowd-pleasers you’ll want in your baking rotation again and again. From the simplicity of the ingredients to the lush, chewy texture and the customizable mix-ins, it truly feels like a special treat baked with love. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to wow yourself and everyone lucky enough to share these golden delights.
Print
Irresistible Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This irresistible blondies recipe offers a perfectly chewy, buttery treat loaded with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips and nuts. With simple pantry ingredients and a quick 45-minute bake time, these blondies are an easy and delicious dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (210g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (220g)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (113g)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Mix-ins
- 1 cup mix-in’s such as white, semi-sweet chocolate or butterscotch chips; chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds (180g)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. Make sure to leave a 2-inch overhang on at least two sides of the pan for easy blondie removal later.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the packed light brown sugar and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth. Then add the room temperature egg and vanilla extract, whisking vigorously until the batter thickens and is fully combined.
- Incorporate dry and wet mixtures: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir using a spatula just until almost combined. Gently fold in ¾ cup of your chosen mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, etc.) until evenly spread throughout the batter.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the blondie batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Press the remaining ¼ cup of mix-ins firmly into the top layer of the batter for a crunchy, decorative finish.
- Bake and cool: Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for 32 to 36 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is set. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out and slicing.
Notes
- Ensure the egg is at room temperature to help the batter mix more smoothly.
- Use parchment paper or foil with an overhang to easily remove the blondies from the pan without crumbling.
- Mix-ins are highly customizable; try different chocolates, nuts, or even dried fruits.
- Do not overmix once you add the flour; this keeps the blondies tender.
- Letting the blondies cool completely before cutting prevents them from falling apart.
