Maple Pecan Blondies are sweet, chewy treats packed with tasty pecans and a rich maple flavor. They are the perfect dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!
Honestly, I can’t resist those crunchy pecans, especially when they’re mixed with that yummy maple goodness! 😋 Plus, they’re super easy to bake and share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for a rich flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, you can replace it with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, which will still give you that moist texture.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. You could use dark brown sugar for a deeper taste, or if you’re out, granulated sugar works in a pinch but will change the flavor slightly.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives these blondies their signature flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the flavor profile will be different. I personally think the maple syrup is the key to success here!
Pecans: These provide crunch and a lovely nutty flavor. If you have nut allergies, feel free to use chocolate chips or sunflower seeds as a delicious alternative!
How Do I Ensure My Blondies Are Chewy and Not Dry?
The secret to perfect blondies lies in the mixing and baking process. Here are some tips to keep them chewy:
- Mix your wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dry blondies.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Don’t bake too long or they will dry out.
- Let them cool in the pan before cutting to retain moisture.
Following these tips will help you achieve those perfect, chewy blondies that are hard to resist! Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Delicious Maple Pecan Blondies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blondies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, plus extra for topping
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll spend around 10 minutes letting the glaze set before slicing, bringing the total time to about 1 hour for a delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, and maple syrup. Use a whisk to mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl and whisk again until everything is fully incorporated and looks creamy.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to aerate the flour, ensuring your blondies come out light and fluffy.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Remember, mix just until you can’t see any flour; overmixing can lead to tougher blondies.
6. Add Pecan Goodness:
Fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Prepare to Bake:
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. If you like, sprinkle extra pecans on top for an appealing crunch.
8. Bake the Blondies:
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
9. Make the Maple Glaze:
While the blondies cool, prepare the glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of milk or cream. Adjust the thickness with more milk if needed for a drizzle consistency.
10. Top the Blondies:
Once the blondies have cooled for a bit, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, spreading it out with a spatula if needed.
11. Let It Set:
Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before cutting your blondies into squares.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your rich, buttery, maple-sweet blondies warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your cozy treat with friends, family, or just yourself!
This recipe yields chewy, moist blondies that will surely become a favorite for any occasion! Happy baking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?
Absolutely! While pecans add a wonderful flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips if you prefer. Just be mindful of any nut allergies if you’re sharing!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I Freeze Maple Pecan Blondies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Once completely cooled, wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Is There a Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still add sweetness to your blondies.