Name: Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies That Will Rock Your World
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted and browned); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Large); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Toasted for flavor); 1 cup Optional Chocolate Chips

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There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma of brown butter sizzling away on the stove. It transforms an ordinary kitchen into a haven of warmth and nostalgia, and that’s exactly where my journey with these Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies begins. Picture this: the rich, nutty scent filling the air, making it impossible to resist sneaking a spoonful of the golden batter before it even hits the oven.

Perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something a bit special or for casual gatherings with friends, these blondies deliver in both flavor and simplicity. In just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a batch of chewy, richly-textured delights that are as comforting as they are crowd-pleasing. With toasted pecans adding crunch and an optional splash of chocolate chips for indulgence, this recipe is sure to become your go-to sweet treat. Let’s dive into creating a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why are these Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies a must-try?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a delightful dessert in no time. Nutty goodness: The brown butter and toasted pecans create a rich, irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more. Optional chocolate chips offer versatility, satisfying both blondie and chocolate lovers alike. Perfectly chewy texture: Each bite boasts a perfectly balanced chewiness that’s hard to resist. Bonus – these blondies store well, making them ideal for meal prep or last-minute treats. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream, and you’re in for a treat!

Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondies
• Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich, creamy base to the blondies; you can use salted butter but reduce extra salt.
• Brown Sugar – Infuses the blondies with sweetness and depth, thanks to its molasses content.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the flavor by enhancing the overall sweetness.
• Large Eggs – Essential for binding and adding moisture to the batter.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile with aromatic sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the blondies; for gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Powder – Helps the blondies rise and achieve a nice texture.
• Baking Soda – Aids in browning and ensures tenderness.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness for a more complex flavor.
• Chopped Pecans – Adds a delicious crunch; toasting them enhances their nutty flavor.
• Optional – Chocolate Chips – For a rich, chocolatey twist that complements the blondie’s flavors.

These Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies are a delightful treat you won’t want to miss!

How to Make Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies

Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and stir occasionally until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes.
Mix the Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!
Fold in Add-Ins: Gently incorporate the chopped pecans into the batter, and if you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in now.
Prep for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
Cool and Cut: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies?

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these decadent blondies with complementary flavors and textures.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic creamy scoop balances the rich flavors of the blondies while melting slightly to create a luscious topping.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel adds a sweet, buttery richness that enhances the nutty notes in each bite.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness, brightening the overall flavor and adding a pop of color.
Coffee: A bold, aromatic coffee cuts through the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast and elevating your dessert experience.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts add an extra crunch, complementing the pecans while enhancing the nutty profile of the blondies.
Milk: A tall glass of milk is a timeless pairing, perfect for washing down the chewy, rich texture of these blondies.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds indulgent richness that beautifully complements the sweet blondie base.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, homemade whipped cream offers a lovely contrast to the dense texture of the blondies for a finishing touch.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the nutty flavors, making this a cozy pairing for a chilly evening.
Fruit Sorbet: A fruity sorbet provides a refreshing and lighter option that cleanses the palate after each sweet bite.

Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondie Variations

Feel free to customize your blondies and explore exciting twists that awaken your taste buds.

Nut Swap: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique crunch and aroma, creating delightful surprises.
Sweet Twist: Incorporate white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for added sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the nuttiness. The blend of flavors will elevate every bite!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to create delicious, gluten-free blondies without compromising texture. This ensures everyone can enjoy your treat!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with brown butter. This aromatic touch adds depth and warmth.
Fun Add-Ins: Fold in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a burst of flavor, texture, and a hint of tartness in every bite. They will surprise your palate with delightful freshness!
Extra Richness: Drizzle a caramel or chocolate sauce over the cooled blondies before serving for a decadent finish that’s simply irresistible. This will leave everyone wanting more!
Crunchy Top: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking to create a sweet, crispy crust that adds an enjoyable texture contrast. It’s the finishing touch your blondies deserve!
Chili Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy surprise that mingles beautifully with the sweetness. This adventurous twist is not for the faint of heart!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in the refrigerator. Just ensure the batter is tightly covered to maintain its freshness. Alternatively, you can bake the blondies, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week. When you’re ready to serve, simply cut them into squares, and for that extra indulgence, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You’ll enjoy the same delicious taste with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies

Room Temperature: Store the blondies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: They can be refrigerated for up to a week; just ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Expert Tips for Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies

Watch the Butter: Be careful not to overheat the butter; a deep golden color and nutty aroma are your signals to stop.
Egg Mixing: Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next—this will help achieve a uniform batter.
Pecan Freshness: Chop your pecans just before adding them to ensure maximum flavor and crunch in your blondies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain a chewy texture in your blondies.
Test for Doneness: Use the toothpick method; aim for moist crumbs for a soft, fudgy result that makes these blondies irresistible.

Irresistible Brown Butter Pecan Blondies Recipe FAQs

What kind of butter should I use for the blondies?
I always recommend using unsalted butter for a more controlled flavor balance, but if you only have salted butter, you can absolutely use that! Just remember to reduce the added salt in the recipe to keep the sweetness intact.

How do I know when my pecans are fresh enough?
Look for pecans that are firm and not shriveled. If you see them turning light or dark brown, or if they have a rancid smell, it’s best to toss them. Freshly chopped pecans will give you the best crunch and flavor. I often toast mine lightly in a skillet to enhance their nuttiness before adding them to the batter.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze the blondies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your blondies, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

What do I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If your blondies are dry, they may have been overbaked. Make sure to check them a few minutes before the suggested bake time. You want a toothpick that comes out with moist crumbs, not dry ones! Another tip is to ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, as that can also dry them out.

Are these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, they can be made gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using blends that contain xanthan gum for the best texture and rise. Enjoy your delicious treat without worry!