These maple pecan blondies are a delightful treat! Imagine sweet, chewy bars loaded with crunchy pecans and a hint of maple syrup. Yum!
They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee. I love how easy they are to whip up—just mix, bake, and enjoy the yummy smell that fills your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of your blondies. If you need a dairy-free option, you could use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar works best here for that deep flavor. You can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tbsp per cup) if needed.
Pure Maple Syrup: The star ingredient! It gives that wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use agave syrup or honey, but the taste will vary.
Pecans: I love chopped pecans for their crunch. You can swap them for walnuts or even chocolate chips for a different twist!
All-Purpose Flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.
How Do I Ensure My Blondies Are Chewy and Not Cake-Like?
The key to achieving that perfect chewy texture is in the mixing and baking. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Don’t overmix the batter! Just blend until the dry ingredients are moistened. This helps prevent tough blondies.
- Watch your baking time closely. Over-baking can make your blondies dry. Check around the 25-minute mark—remove them when a toothpick has a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling completely before adding the glaze helps it set nicely and gives you that lovely shiny finish.
By following these tips, your blondies will be perfectly chewy and absolutely delicious! Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
How to Make Maple Pecan Blondies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
- For the maple glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp pure maple syrup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake, plus some time to cool before glazing. In total, you should plan for about an hour before you can enjoy your delicious blondies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper or give it a light grease with butter or cooking spray. This will make it easy to lift out the blondies later!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and pure maple syrup. Use a whisk to stir these ingredients together until they are nice and smooth. This is where the delicious flavor starts!
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s fully incorporated. Your mixture should look glossy and well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly blended so your blondies rise just right.
5. Fold the Mixtures Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—be careful not to overmix. You want the blondies to stay soft and chewy!
6. Add the Pecans:
Fold the chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly. This will add a lovely crunch to every bite!
7. Bake the Blondies:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Prepare the Maple Glaze:
While the blondies cool, it’s time to make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with maple syrup. Adjust the syrup amount until it’s smooth but pourable.
9. Glaze and Garnish:
Once the blondies are completely cooled, pour the maple glaze over the top. Spread it evenly with a spatula. For a finishing touch, scatter some whole or halved pecan halves on top of the glaze.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the glaze set for a bit before cutting into squares. Enjoy your beautifully chewy and tasty maple pecan blondies with family and friends!
These blondies are perfect for any occasion and a sure crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chopped walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. For a chocolatey twist, you could also mix in some chocolate chips instead.
How Should I Store Leftover Blondies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I Freeze These Blondies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the blondies to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
What’s the Best Way to Cut Blondies?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and run it under hot water before slicing. Wipe it clean between cuts to achieve nice, even squares.
