If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s warm, chewy, and utterly delicious, you’re in the right place! Brown Butter Salted Caramel Blondies are my go-to dessert. They combine rich brown butter with sweet caramel and a hint of flaky sea salt. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step, share tips, and explore fun variations. Get ready to bake something irresistible that will impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
To make the best Brown Butter Salted Caramel Blondies, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Flaky sea salt for topping
These ingredients come together to create a rich, gooey treat. The unsalted butter is essential for browning, giving depth to the flavor. The brown sugar adds moisture and a lovely caramel note, while granulated sugar helps the blondies rise. Eggs serve as a binder, providing structure.
Vanilla extract brightens the taste, and all-purpose flour gives the blondies their soft texture. Baking powder helps them rise, while salt balances the sweetness. The salted caramel sauce adds a luscious layer of flavor. Finally, the flaky sea salt on top enhances every bite, making these blondies truly irresistible.
Each ingredient plays a vital role. By choosing quality ingredients, you elevate the dish. Enjoy the magic these simple items create when combined!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the blondies bake evenly. Next, prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper. Let some of the paper hang over the edges. This makes lifting the blondies out easy later.
Brown the Butter
Now, let’s brown the butter. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir it often. Watch for it to turn golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes. It will smell nutty and delicious. Once it reaches this point, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter with 1 cup packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Mix them well until they blend smoothly. Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Beat well after each egg. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring everything is mixed evenly.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if the batter has a few small lumps. Do not overmix.
Add the Caramel
Now, it’s time to add the caramel. Carefully fold in 1 cup of salted caramel sauce into the batter. Remember to save a few tablespoons for later. This creates a rich flavor without overmixing.
Bake and Cool
Transfer the blondie batter into your prepared pan. Smooth it out evenly. Spoon the reserved caramel sauce on top, then swirl it through the batter with a knife or skewer. Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the right texture in your blondies, do not overmix the batter. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just blended. A few small lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies. You want them soft and chewy, not dense.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the flavor of your blondies, consider adding some extras. Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, give a nice crunch. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. For a fun twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices can warm up the flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When browning butter, watch it closely. It can go from brown to burnt very fast. Stir it often and take it off the heat when it smells nutty and turns golden brown. Also, for even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated. Always use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Variations
Nutty Blondies
You can add a delightful crunch to your blondies. Just toss in chopped walnuts or pecans. These nuts give a great texture and flavor. They pair nicely with the sweet caramel.
Chocolate Chip Blondies
For a sweet twist, fold in some chocolate chips. Dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips work well. They melt and create pockets of gooey goodness in each bite.
Seasonal Variations
Change things up with seasonal spices. In fall, add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. These spices enhance the caramel and add a cozy flavor. Think of the holidays as you enjoy these treats.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can also place a slice of bread in the container. The bread adds moisture and keeps the blondies soft. If you want to keep them even longer, consider wrapping them in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing blondies is easy. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. To thaw, take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Shelf Life
When stored correctly, blondies last about one week at room temperature. If you refrigerate them, they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. In the freezer, they can last up to three months. Just make sure to check for any signs of freezer burn before enjoying them.
FAQs
Can I make these blondies without brown sugar?
Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners. White sugar works well, but the taste will change. You might also try coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor. Just remember, these options can change the texture a bit. Adjust the amounts based on sweetness levels.
What’s the best way to cut blondies?
To cut blondies neatly, use a sharp knife. Spray or coat it with cooking spray for a smooth cut. Start by marking where you want to cut. Cut straight down without sawing. This helps keep the edges clean. If they stick, warm the knife slightly or wipe it clean between cuts.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for a golden brown top and edges. The center should look slightly set but not dry. A toothpick test is best. Insert it into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it’s wet with batter, give it more time. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
You’ve learned how to make delicious blondies with simple steps and key tips. We covered essential ingredients like butter, sugars, and salted caramel for rich flavor. I shared methods to achieve the perfect texture and avoid common mistakes. Feel free to try variations, whether adding nuts or chocolate chips. Store your blondies well to keep them fresh. With these skills, you can wow friends and family with your baking. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your work!
