These maple pecan blondies are a sweet treat with a chewy texture and a hint of maple flavor. Loaded with crunchy pecans, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying with coffee!
I can’t resist a good blondie! When I make these, I often sprinkle a little sea salt on top for some extra flavor. Trust me, it just makes them even better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, you can switch to coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Just melt it like you would traditional butter!
Brown Sugar: I love using dark brown sugar for its deeper flavor, but light brown sugar works too. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, coconut sugar is a nice option.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is essential for that sweet, maple flavor. If you’re out, honey can be a decent substitute, but it’ll change the taste slightly.
Pecans: These give the blondies a nice crunch. If you’re nut-free, you can use chocolate chips or sunflower seeds instead. Both options are delicious!
Powdered Sugar: For the glaze, you can use a sugar substitute for a healthier version. Just keep in mind it might alter the texture a bit.
How Do I Ensure My Blondies Are Chewy and Not Cake-like?
The key to achieving a chewy texture in your blondies lies in the mixing method and baking time. Here’s how to get that perfect chewiness:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined; overmixing can lead to a cake-like texture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; take them out when a toothpick shows moist crumbs. If you wait too long, they’ll overbake.
- Let them cool completely in the pan before glazing. This helps them set properly and enhances the chewiness.
These simple tips will help you whip up blondies that are perfectly chewy every time! Enjoy making these delightful treats! 🍂
How to Make Maple Pecan Blondies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blondies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 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 for prep time and 25-30 minutes for baking. After baking, it’s best to let the blondies cool for about 20 minutes before glazing. Total time is around 1 hour including cooling, but it’s worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, letting some paper hang over the sides. This helps with easy removal later!
2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This is the base that gives the blondies their sweet, rich flavor.
3. Adding the Eggs and Flavors:
Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the 1/4 cup of maple syrup and the vanilla extract to add that lovely flavor.
4. Combining the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.
5. Mix It All Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Then, fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch.
6. Baking Time:
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Don’t forget to sprinkle any extra pecan halves on top and gently press them into the batter. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
7. Make the Maple Glaze:
While the blondies are cooling in the pan, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and just enough milk or cream to achieve a smooth, thick consistency.
8. Glaze and Cool:
Once the blondies are cool, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing into squares. This makes for the perfect tasty treat!
Enjoy your delicious Maple Pecan Blondies with a comforting cup of coffee or your favorite fall beverage. Happy baking! 🍂
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for the unsalted butter in this recipe. Just make sure it’s a baking margarine for similar results in texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Blondies?
Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container!
Can I Make These Blondies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will maintain the texture while keeping them gluten-free. Just make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
What Variations Can I Try?
You can get creative with these blondies! Try adding chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even dried fruit. You could also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a twist!