Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, gooey blondie, especially when it’s studded with luscious chocolate chips and crunchy toffee bits. These Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing for a cozy night in, or simply indulging in a sweet craving. The combination of rich, buttery flavor with a hint of fleur de sel elevates these blondies from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple preparation method, you’ll find yourself making these delightful treats again and again.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of these Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies lies in their simple yet effective ingredient list. The melted butter creates a rich base that adds depth of flavor, while the light brown sugar contributes a touch of caramel sweetness. The addition of fleur de sel not only balances the sweetness but also enhances the overall taste experience. The combination of chocolate chips and toffee bits introduces layers of flavor, making every bite a delightful surprise. With the perfect blend of chewy and gooey textures, these blondies are bound to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
The Essentials
- Unsalted butter (113.5g): The foundation of flavor and moisture.
- Light brown sugar (165g): Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
- Egg: Provides structure and binds the ingredients.
- Vanilla extract (1.5 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor.
- Fleur de sel (0.25 teaspoon): A touch of saltiness that elevates the sweet notes.
- All-purpose flour (125g): The main dry ingredient that gives the blondies their structure.
- Baking powder (0.5 teaspoon): Helps the blondies rise slightly.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (180g): The star of the show, adding rich chocolate flavor.
- Toffee bits (6g): For that delightful crunch and buttery toffee flavor.
- Fleur de sel (for sprinkling): Adds a finishing touch of saltiness.
Equipment Breakdown
- Mixing bowl: For combining the wet ingredients and sugars.
- Whisk: To mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For folding in dry ingredients and chocolate chips.
- 9×9-inch baking pan: The perfect size for your blondies.
- Parchment paper: To line the baking pan for easy removal.
- Oven: For baking the blondies to perfection.
From Start to Finish: Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Whisk until fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fleur de sel. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and toffee bits, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Sprinkle with Fleur de Sel
Once removed from the oven, sprinkle a pinch of fleur de sel on top of the blondies while they’re still warm. This enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful finish.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift them out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
Holiday-Friendly Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.
- Holiday Spice: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Chocolate Swirl: Swirl in some melted chocolate before baking for a marbled effect.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in some dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a fruity surprise.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies lies in their versatility. The basic recipe serves as a canvas for creativity, allowing you to incorporate your favorite flavors or seasonal ingredients. The balance between sweet and salty is the key to making these blondies truly irresistible, making them perfect for both casual snacking and festive gatherings. Always remember, the quality of your ingredients matters. Using high-quality chocolate and fresh butter will result in a more flavorful and satisfying treat.
Prep Ahead & Store
These blondies can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for busy days. Simply bake them, allow them to cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the blondies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
What can I substitute for the toffee bits?
If you don’t have toffee bits, consider using crushed caramel candies or even chocolate-covered toffee for a similar sweet crunch.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1 in recipes.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown edge and a slightly puffed center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they are perfectly baked.
One Pan, More Ideas
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Peanut Butter Brownies
Before You Go
Now that you’ve experienced the joy of baking these Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these blondies are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to enjoy them warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Happy baking!
Salted Chocolate Chip and Toffee Blondies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fleur de sel, then gradually stir into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and toffee bits until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Sprinkle a pinch of fleur de sel on top while still warm.
- Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes, then lift from the pan and cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, tightly wrapped for best results.
- For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts.
