Chewy Brown Butter Blondies
Chewy Brown Butter Blondies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a rich, buttery dessert. These blondies boast a deep, nutty flavor thanks to the brown butter, complemented by the sweetness of brown and granulated sugars. With a chewy texture and delightful mix-ins of walnuts and toffee bits, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in all by yourself. The recipe is straightforward and yields a batch that is sure to impress even the pickiest of dessert lovers.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes these Chewy Brown Butter Blondies truly special is the use of brown butter. This simple technique of browning butter transforms the flavor profile, lending a depth that elevates these blondies from ordinary to extraordinary. The combination of both brown and granulated sugars provides a perfect balance of sweetness, while the addition of a single egg and an extra yolk ensures a rich, chewy texture. Add in the crunch from walnuts and the sweet surprise of toffee bits, and you have a dessert that is simply irresistible.
What to Buy
To make these delectable Chewy Brown Butter Blondies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup for browning.
- Brown sugar: 1 cup packed for sweetness and depth.
- Granulated sugar: 1/3 cup for a hint of extra sweetness.
- Large egg: 1 at room temperature, for binding.
- Egg yolk: 1 at room temperature, to enhance chewiness.
- Vanilla extract: 1 1/2 teaspoons for flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/4 cups for structure.
- Salt: 3/4 teaspoon to balance sweetness.
- Chopped walnuts: 1/3 cup for crunchiness.
- Toffee bits: 1/2 cup for a sweet, chewy surprise.
Cook’s Kit
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following tools and equipment:
- Mixing bowls: For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix the sugars and eggs smoothly.
- Spatula: For folding in the flour and mix-ins.
- 9×9-inch baking pan: Perfect size for blondies.
- Parchment paper: For easy removal of the blondies from the pan.
- Oven mitts: Safety first when handling the hot pan.
Chewy Brown Butter Blondies: How It’s Done
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by placing the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt, then continue cooking while stirring frequently. Watch closely as it foams and begins to turn golden brown, giving off a nutty aroma. Once it reaches a deep amber color, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour in the warm brown butter, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
To the sugar mixture, add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and toffee bits, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares. Enjoy your Chewy Brown Butter Blondies with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk!
In-Season Flavor Ideas
To add a seasonal twist to your Chewy Brown Butter Blondies, consider these flavor variations:
- Fall: Add chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Winter: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
- Spring: Mix in dried cranberries and a hint of orange zest.
- Summer: Swap in fresh berries for a juicy burst of flavor.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues while making your Chewy Brown Butter Blondies, here are some helpful tips:
- If your blondies are too dry, try reducing the baking time slightly next time.
- For fudgier blondies, you can increase the brown sugar slightly.
- If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil.
- Make sure your butter isn’t too hot when adding the eggs to prevent scrambling.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your Chewy Brown Butter Blondies fresh and delicious:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the blondies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen blondies at room temperature before enjoying.
Ask & Learn
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, light brown sugar can be used, but dark brown sugar adds a deeper flavor due to its higher molasses content.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut or leave them out?
Absolutely! You can use pecans, macadamia nuts, or any nut of your choice. You can also omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
What can I use instead of toffee bits?
If you can’t find toffee bits, chocolate chips or butterscotch chips are great alternatives that will still offer a sweet, chewy element.
Why are my blondies cakey instead of chewy?
Cakey blondies may result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour accurately and mix just until combined.
What to Make After This
Once you’ve mastered Chewy Brown Butter Blondies, you might want to try your hand at these delightful recipes:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
- Salted Caramel Brownies
- Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
The Takeaway
Chewy Brown Butter Blondies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of brown butter with the sweetness of sugars and the crunch of walnuts. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack, dessert after dinner, or sharing with friends, these blondies are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy steps, they are perfect for bakers of any skill level. So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed!
Chewy Brown Butter Blondies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Brown the Butter - Start by placing the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt, then continue cooking while stirring frequently. Watch closely as it foams and begins to turn golden brown, giving off a nutty aroma. Once it reaches a deep amber color, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 2: Mix the Sugars - In a large mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar. Pour in the warm brown butter, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla - To the sugar mixture, add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins - Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and toffee bits, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Step 6: Bake - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 7: Cool and Enjoy - Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares. Enjoy your Chewy Brown Butter Blondies with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk!
Notes
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze blondies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen blondies at room temperature before enjoying.
