Get ready to indulge in something truly special! In this post, I will take you through my favorite recipe for Caramel Pecan Blondies. These sweet treats blend rich caramel with crunchy pecans, creating a dessert that’s hard to resist. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious batch ready to share or enjoy solo. Let’s dive in and make your new favorite dessert together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Caramel Pecan Blondies
To make these delicious caramel pecan blondies, you need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 ½ cups light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sea salt flakes for topping
These ingredients create a rich flavor and chewy texture. The butter and brown sugar form the base. The eggs give moisture and help with binding. The flour, baking powder, and baking soda create the perfect rise. Pecans add crunch, while caramel gives sweetness.
Essential Tools Needed
To make caramel pecan blondies, you will need a few key tools:
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Rubber spatula
– 9×13-inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
– Toothpick for testing
These tools help you mix ingredients smoothly and bake evenly. The parchment paper makes it easy to remove the blondies later.
Common Ingredient Substitutions
If you lack some ingredients, here are some substitutes you can use:
– Unsalted butter: Use salted butter, but reduce salt in the recipe.
– Light brown sugar: Dark brown sugar works well for a richer flavor.
– Eggs: Replace with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
– Chopped pecans: Walnuts or almonds can be used for different flavors.
– Caramel sauce: Maple syrup can give a sweet twist if you have no caramel.
These substitutions keep the blondies tasty and allow you to use what you have at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps you lift the blondies out later. Greasing the pan is not needed since the parchment will prevent sticking.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a big bowl, whisk together 1 cup of melted butter and 1 ½ cups of light brown sugar. Mix until it looks smooth. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Stir well after each egg. Then, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until combined. In another bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined to keep the blondies soft.
Layering the Batter and Caramel
Pour half of the blondie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Next, drizzle ½ cup of caramel sauce over the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the caramel into the batter. Then, spoon the rest of the blondie batter on top and smooth it out. Drizzle the remaining caramel on top and swirl it again with the knife. Finish by sprinkling sea salt flakes over the top to balance the sweetness.
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Tender Blondies
To keep your blondies soft and chewy, mix your batter gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Combine your wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. You want to see some flour bits. This method traps moisture, giving you that tender bite. Using room temperature eggs also helps with the texture.
Best Practices for Swirling Caramel
When swirling caramel, use a light touch. Pour half the batter into your pan, then drizzle half of the caramel. Use a knife to swirl gently. Too much mixing will blend everything together. You want to see pretty swirls. Repeat this with the second half of the batter and caramel for a beautiful finish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These blondies shine on their own, but you can elevate them. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm blondie. For a twist, add fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A cup of coffee or tea pairs well too, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Caramel Pecan Blondies
You can easily add chocolate chips to the batter for a rich twist. Just mix in one cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips when you fold in the pecans. The chocolate pairs perfectly with caramel and adds a fun texture. You can also use dark chocolate for a deeper flavor. This blend makes each bite a sweet delight.
Nut-Free Alternative Ideas
If you need a nut-free version, skip the pecans. Instead, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They add crunch without the nuts. You can also replace the nuts with more chocolate chips. This keeps the blondies rich and delicious. They will still taste great and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Seasonal Flavors to Try
Change up the flavors based on the season. In fall, add pumpkin spice to the batter. Replace some of the vanilla extract with pure pumpkin puree for a cozy flavor. In winter, mix in peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes. This gives a festive twist. In summer, add fresh berries for a fruity flavor. Each season brings a new way to enjoy these blondies.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Blondies
To keep your blondies fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely before storing. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for another week.
Freezing Instructions for Blondies
Freezing is a great way to save your caramel pecan blondies. First, cut them into squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature.
Shelf Life of Caramel Pecan Blondies
The shelf life of caramel pecan blondies depends on storage. At room temperature, they last about three days. In the fridge, they can last about a week. If frozen, they last three months without losing flavor or texture. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. It will add more salt to your blondies. If you do, skip the added salt in the recipe. The blondies will still taste great. However, unsalted butter gives you more control over the salt level.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
You can check if the blondies are done by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Blondies bake for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them near the end.
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
You can make these blondies ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
You learned how to make delicious caramel pecan blondies. We covered key ingredients, tools, and smart substitutions. I gave you easy steps for mixing, layering, and baking. You now have tips to make soft blondies and swirl caramel like a pro. Plus, I shared fun variations and storage tips.
In the end, these blondies are great for sharing or enjoying alone. Try them out, and you won’t regret it! Happy baking!
