If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! Brown Butter Maple Pecan Blondies are a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors and a chewy texture. I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you create these decadent blondies perfectly every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple recipe that brings cozy vibes to any occasion!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Brown butter is the star here. It adds a nutty flavor that makes these blondies shine. Start with one cup of unsalted butter. Melt it in a saucepan until it turns golden brown. This process takes about five to seven minutes.
You’ll also need both brown and granulated sugar. Use one and a half cups of brown sugar for richness. Add half a cup of granulated sugar to balance the sweetness.
Maple syrup gives these blondies a lovely depth. A quarter cup of pure maple syrup is perfect. It adds a hint of sweetness and flavor that pairs well with the nuts.
Two large eggs will make the blondies moist and rich. Don’t forget two teaspoons of pure vanilla extract for that warm, sweet aroma.
For the base, use two cups of all-purpose flour, along with one teaspoon of baking soda. This helps the blondies rise. A half teaspoon of salt brings all the flavors together.
Finally, coarsely chop one cup of pecans. They add a crunchy texture. You can mix in half a cup of chocolate chips if you want to boost the sweetness.
Gather all these ingredients before you start. Each one plays a vital role in making your blondies delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Pan and Preheating
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly. You can also line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later.
Making the Brown Butter
– In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of unsalted butter.
– Melt the butter over medium heat.
– Stir it often, watching it change to a golden brown color.
– This will take about 5-7 minutes.
– Remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
Mixing the Ingredients
– In a large bowl, pour in the brown butter.
– Add 1 1/2 cups of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup.
– Whisk these together until smooth and well blended.
– Crack in 2 large eggs, whisking well after each egg.
– Stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to boost the taste.
– In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
– Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Adding Pecans and Chocolate Chips
– Take a spatula and fold in 1 cup of coarsely chopped pecans.
– If you like, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Make sure they mix well.
Baking the Blondies
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use the spatula to spread it evenly.
– Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
– The blondies are ready when the edges look golden brown.
– A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, with a few moist crumbs being okay.
Cooling and Serving
– After baking, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
– Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
– Cut into 16 squares.
– For serving, warm them up a bit and drizzle with extra maple syrup.
– A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a nice touch.
– For a treat, serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Blondies
To get great blondies, avoid overmixing. Mix just until the wet and dry parts blend. This helps keep your blondies soft and chewy. If you mix too much, they may turn out tough.
Baking time is also key. Keep an eye on them as they bake. At 25 minutes, check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are ready. A few moist crumbs are okay.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ingredients based on allergies or taste. For nut allergies, use seeds instead of pecans. Sunflower seeds work well and add a nice crunch.
If you want a different flavor, try using almond extract instead of vanilla. This gives a new twist to the taste. You can also use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
For more depth, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a pinch can change the flavor. You could also add a splash of bourbon for a fun kick.
Experiment with different extracts too. A bit of maple extract can boost the maple flavor. This will make your blondies even more delightful.

Variations
Flavor Twist Options
You can change up the flavors in your brown butter maple pecan blondies. One easy way is to add other nuts. Try walnuts or hazelnuts for a fun twist. They add a nice crunch and flavor. Seasonal flavors are great too. In fall, add pumpkin spice or cinnamon. In spring, use lemon zest for a fresh taste. Each variation brings a new layer of delight.
Vegan or Gluten-Free Alternatives
You can make these blondies vegan. Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. Replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Both options keep the texture and taste yummy.
Serving Suggestions
Serving these blondies can be fun. Pair them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of maple syrup makes them even better. You can also sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top. For a creative touch, cut the blondies into fun shapes or serve them in cupcake liners. These ideas make your treat look fancy and taste amazing.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
Store your Brown Butter Maple Pecan Blondies in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their soft texture and rich flavor. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them. This will keep them fresh for up to a week. Just remember, the cold may change their texture a bit. For the best taste, eat them at room temperature.
Use a glass or plastic container with a tight lid. This prevents air from drying them out. You can also layer parchment paper between the blondies if you stack them. This keeps them from sticking together.
Freezing Blondies
Freezing blondies is a great way to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps avoid freezer burn and keeps them tasting fresh.
To thaw, take out the blondies you want. Leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This brings back their gooey goodness. Enjoy them as a sweet treat anytime!
FAQs
What makes blondies different from brownies?
Blondies have a sweet, buttery flavor. They use brown sugar and no cocoa. Brownies are chocolatey and rich because they include cocoa powder. Blondies are dense and chewy, while brownies can be fudgy or cakey. Blondies often have a caramel-like taste from the brown sugar.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these blondies gluten-free! Just swap regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps the blondies hold together.
How do I know when blondies are done baking?
Check if the edges turn golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done. If the toothpick has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. Each nut adds its own flavor and crunch. Just chop them coarsely before folding them into the batter.
How long do these blondies last?
These blondies last about five days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. They can stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
This blog post covered the key elements to make delicious blondies. We talked about the important ingredients, like brown butter and maple syrup, and how to mix them perfectly. I shared tips to avoid overmixing and included fun variations for your taste. Don’t forget to store them well to enjoy later.
Now, you’re ready to bake your own batch of sweet, chewy blondies. Happy baking!
