Get ready for a sweet treat that combines classic flavors with a twist! My Brown Sugar Pecan Pie Blondies will steal the show at any gathering. With rich brown sugar and crunchy pecans, these blondies are sure to satisfy your cravings. Follow my simple recipe and you’ll whip up a dessert everyone will love. Let’s dive in and make these irresistible blondies!
Ingredients
To make Brown Sugar Pecan Pie Blondies, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the list:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, but recommended)
These ingredients create a rich and tasty treat. The melted butter gives the blondies a soft texture. Brown sugar adds a deep, sweet flavor. The pecans provide a nice crunch. If you like chocolate, add the chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Each bite offers a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This step helps prevent sticking.
Mix Wet Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar.
– Mix until smooth.
– Add two large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
– Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Combine Dry Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt.
– This step ensures the baking powder mixes well.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
– Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
– Fold gently until just combined.
– A few lumps are okay.
– Carefully fold in 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans.
– You can also add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips if desired.
Bake the Blondies
– Pour the batter into your greased pan.
– Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes.
– They are done when golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut
– Let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes.
– This cooling time makes cutting easier.
– To serve, cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Blondies
To make the best blondies, avoid overmixing. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no flour. Some lumps are okay. This keeps your blondies soft and chewy. If you mix too much, your blondies turn tough. Aim for a smooth blend but still keep that lovely texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, dust your blondies with powdered sugar. It adds a nice touch and makes them look fancy. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts a bit on the warm blondies. It creates a delicious mix of flavors. Whipped cream is another great option to add creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is overbaking. If you leave blondies in the oven too long, they can dry out. Watch for a golden brown top and use a toothpick to check. If it comes out clean, they’re done. Another mistake is using the wrong pan size. A 9×13 inch pan is best for even baking. If your pan is too small, they will spill over. If it’s too big, they may bake too fast. Stick to the right size for perfect results.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can change the nuts in your blondies. Try walnuts or almonds for a new taste. You can also add different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate or white chocolate can bring fun flavors. If you want to reduce sugar, use coconut sugar. It gives a rich taste like brown sugar.
Flavor Additions
For a twist, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor. You might also try adding zest from oranges or lemons. This will give your blondies a fresh and fruity touch.
Healthier Options
If you want a healthier treat, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. It adds fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the sugar content. Try cutting the granulated sugar in half. This way, you still enjoy sweetness without all the sugar.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your brown sugar pecan pie blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. Line the bottom with parchment paper for extra protection. Avoid stacking the blondies directly on top of each other to prevent squishing. If you want to keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container. The bread helps keep the blondies moist.
Freezing Blondies
If you want to freeze your blondies, first let them cool completely. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You can warm them in the oven for a few minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these blondies can last about 3-5 days when stored properly. If you put them in the fridge, they stay good for up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration can dry them out a bit. To combat this, always store them in an airtight container. Enjoy your blondies while they are soft and tasty!
FAQs
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these blondies gluten-free. To do this, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. These blends often replace regular flour with a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. This swap keeps the texture light and chewy. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
Can I substitute the pecans?
Absolutely! If you want to swap pecans, you have many options. Walnuts or almonds work great. They add a nice crunch and flavor. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These options still give you that satisfying texture without the nuts.
How can I tell when blondies are done baking?
To check if your blondies are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the blondies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, bake them a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake.
What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If your blondies turn out dry, you can fix them. Try adding a drizzle of melted butter or a splash of milk. This can help bring moisture back. To prevent dry blondies next time, avoid overmixing the batter. Also, check your oven temperature. An oven that’s too hot can lead to dry treats.
You now have a complete guide to making delicious blondies from scratch. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips. Remember to mix carefully and avoid overbaking for the best texture. You can also try variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Store your blondies well, and they will last longer. Enjoy your baking journey and delight in every bite of your homemade treats!
