Get ready to fall in love with dessert all over again! My Brown Butter Caramel Pecan Blondies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. This delightful recipe combines rich brown butter, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans for a treat you’ll crave. Follow along as I guide you through easy steps to create these irresistible blondies that are perfect for any occasion. Let’s start baking!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you need for Brown Butter Caramel Pecan Blondies. Each item plays an important role in making these treats rich and flavorful.
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Gathering quality ingredients is key. The unsalted butter gives the blondies a rich flavor. Brown sugar adds a deep sweetness. Granulated sugar balances this sweetness. Using large eggs helps bind the mix. Fresh vanilla extract enhances the taste. All-purpose flour provides structure. Baking powder gives the blondies a nice rise. Salt brings out all the flavors. Chopped pecans add crunch and nutty taste. The caramel sauce creates a gooey, sweet layer.
Once you have these ingredients, you are ready to make some delicious blondies!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Brown the Butter
– Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan.
– Cook it until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5–7 minutes.
Combine Wet Ingredients
– In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
– Pour in the slightly cooled brown butter and mix well.
– Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Mix Dry Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Combine Ingredients
– Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
– Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans.
Assemble and Bake
– Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out.
– Drizzle half of the 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the batter.
– Add the remaining blondie batter on top, smoothing it out.
– Drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce and swirl it lightly into the batter.
– Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
– Let the blondies cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Brown Butter
To make brown butter, pay close attention to color and scent. Start with unsalted butter in a medium saucepan. Heat it over medium flame. Stir it often to avoid burning. Watch for a golden brown color. You’ll know it’s ready when you smell a nutty aroma. This step adds a rich flavor to your blondies.
Achieving the Right Texture
Don’t overmix your batter. After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the blondies tough. You want them to be soft and chewy. Gently fold in the pecans for a nice crunch. This keeps your blondies light and airy.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve the blondies on a pretty platter. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top. A sprinkle of sea salt adds a touch of flair. Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. This combination makes your blondies look and taste gourmet!
Variations
Nut Alternatives
You can switch pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Both nuts add a nice crunch and flavor. Walnuts provide a rich, earthy taste. Almonds give a light, sweet note to your blondies. Just chop them up the same way as pecans. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for, one cup.
Flavor Additions
Want to make your blondies pop? Try adding chocolate chips or spices. Chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets of joy. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on your taste. If you prefer spices, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Just mix in about half a cup of chocolate or a teaspoon of spice when you fold in the nuts.
Different Sauces
Instead of caramel sauce, you can use chocolate or butterscotch. Chocolate sauce adds a rich, deep flavor that pairs well with the blondies. Butterscotch provides a sweet, buttery taste that’s equally tasty. Drizzle your chosen sauce on top as you layer the batter. It creates a fun twist to your blondies!
Storage Info
Storing Blondies
To keep your blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps them stay soft and moist. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. Avoid leaving them uncovered, as they can dry out quickly.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze blondies for later enjoyment. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to three months. To thaw, take them out and leave them at room temperature for about an hour.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, blondies last for about 3 to 4 days. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. The cold helps preserve the flavor and texture. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, you can use salted butter. It will change the taste slightly. Salted butter adds a savory note to the sweet blondies. If you use it, skip any additional salt in the recipe. This small change creates a tasty balance of flavors.
What can I use as a caramel sauce alternative?
If you don’t have caramel sauce, try using dulce de leche. It has a similar flavor and texture. You can also use butterscotch sauce for a different twist. Another idea is to make a quick homemade caramel using sugar, butter, and cream.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Look for golden edges and a firm center. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted. The top should also look set, not wet. If it still seems gooey, give them a few extra minutes.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands work well for baking. Make sure it has the right mix of starches and fibers. This will help give the blondies a nice texture. Check the blend’s packaging for best results.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious blondies with simple ingredients and clear steps. We learned the importance of browning butter and got tips to perfect texture. You can also try fun variations with different nuts or sauces. Remember, storing them correctly helps keep them fresh. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats! These blondies are easy and fun for everyone. Get creative, and make them your own. Happy baking!
