There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the smell of freshly baked treats wafting from the kitchen. That’s exactly what makes these Classic Blondies so special! Rich and buttery, these delightful vanilla brownies are studded with sweet white chocolate chips, creating a heavenly combination that satisfies any sweet tooth. Perfect for when you’re craving comfort food but want something quick and easy, these blondies come together in a flash using ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Imagine serving these chewy squares at your next gathering, where friends and family will be raving about their irresistible flavor. Whether it’s for a bake sale, a potluck, or simply an afternoon indulgence, these blondies are versatile enough to be a hit on any occasion. Why settle for the ordinary when you can whip up this classic dessert that's sure to become a go-to favorite? Grab your mixing bowl and let’s bring some warmth to your home with these classic, crowd-pleasing blondies!
Why are Classic Blondies a Must-Bake?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of rich, buttery vanilla and sweet white chocolate chips delivers a taste that everyone loves.
Quick and easy: These blondies come together in just minutes, making them perfect for those spontaneous baking moments.
Versatile treat: Tailor the recipe to your liking by substituting chocolate or adding nuts for extra crunch.
Crowd-pleaser: Great for parties or family gatherings, these bars are sure to please guests of all ages.
Nostalgic comfort: Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, reminiscent of home-baked goodness.
For a delightful pairing, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience!
Classic Blondies Ingredients
• For the Batter
- All-purpose flour - Provides structure and bulk; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baking powder - Acts as a leavening agent to help the blondies rise perfectly.
- Salt - Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (melted) - Adds richness and moisture; let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Light or dark brown sugar - Offers sweetness and a subtle caramel flavor that enhances the richness.
- Granulated sugar - Adds extra sweetness and texture to the blondies.
- Large eggs (room temperature) - Binds the ingredients together; room temperature eggs mix better.
- Vanilla extract - Infuses the blondies with rich vanilla flavor; use high-quality extract for the best results.
- White chocolate chips - Contributes creaminess and sweetness; substitute with dark chocolate chips for a twist.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) - Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; can be omitted for nut-free blondies.
How to Make Classic Blondies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper with overhang; this will help with easy removal once baked.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined, ensuring your dry ingredients are well mixed for the best rise.
Combine melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl, mixing until smooth and well incorporated; aim for a glossy texture.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, gently stirring until just combined; remember, avoid overmixing to keep them chewy.
Fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and optional nuts-this adds extra flavor and texture to your blondies; mix until just dispersed.
Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread it evenly; sprinkle any remaining white chocolate chips on top for an enticing finish.
Bake for 23-27 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached-perfectly chewy!
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing; this ensures a clean cut and the best texture.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Classic Blondies
• Avoid Overbaking: Check your blondies a minute or two before the timer goes off. They should be lightly browned on top, with edges pulling away from the sides for perfect chewiness.
• Cool the Butter: Ensure melted butter has cooled slightly before mixing it with eggs to prevent cooking them and altering the batter’s texture.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: For improved incorporation, let your eggs reach room temperature before mixing them into the batter; this leads to a smoother blend overall.
• Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your classic blondies chewy and not cake-like.
• Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or flash freeze in bars for a quick sweet treat later!
Classic Blondies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with your blondies for a delightful twist on this classic treat!
Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips to create a rich, creamy texture.
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without allergens; still deliciously chewy!
Chocolate Chip Twist: Substitute white chocolate chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a more decadent flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile and bring a unique aromatic touch.
Candy-Inspired: Stir in chopped candies like Butterfinger or Reese’s Pieces for a playful bite that's sure to delight both kids and adults.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried fruit such as cranberries or cherries for a fruity contrast that adds a delightful chewiness and vibrant color.
Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter; it will balance the sweetness and add an unexpected zing.
Chewy Caramel Swirls: Drizzle caramel sauce into the batter before baking for decadent swirls that add a rich, buttery flavor and mouthwatering sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, store in the refrigerator for a firmer texture, but consume within 5 days for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, flash freeze the blondies on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds, or let them come to room temperature before serving.
What to Serve with Classic Blondies?
Indulging in these sweet, chewy squares can be even more delightful when paired with the right accompaniments.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold scoop beautifully balances the rich blondies, turning them into an indulgent dessert experience.
Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle creates a decadent contrast, enhancing the buttery flavors and adding a delightful sweetness.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries offers a refreshing counterpoint, cutting through the sweetness of the blondies.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup adds depth, with the rich coffee notes complementing the vanilla sweetness in the blondies, making for a perfect afternoon treat.
Milk: A classic pairing! The coolness of the milk enhances the richness of the blondies, perfect for a nostalgic dessert moment.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for additional crunch and flavor complexity, elevating every bite.
Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle adds a wonderful layer of richness to the already delicious blondies, creating a chocolate-vanilla dream.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a lovely finish and makes each bite feel like a special occasion.
Fruit Compote: A homemade or store-bought fruit compote brings a sweet and tangy note that complements the richness of the blondies wonderfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also measure out your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) and keep them in a sealed container for up to 3 days to save time on baking day. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix in the wet ingredients and fold in the chocolate chips before transferring the batter to the pan. This setup allows you to enjoy these delicious blondies, freshly baked with minimal effort, anytime you need a sweet treat!
Classic Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for Classic Blondies?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure to use high-quality vanilla extract and brown sugar. Opt for fresh eggs at room temperature to help with mixing. When using chocolate chips, choose a brand that you love since they greatly enhance the blondies’ taste. If you’re going for a nutty flavor, select fresh walnuts or pecans. Checking the flour for freshness before baking is also a good idea!
How should I store my Classic Blondies?
The more the merrier! Keep any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you prefer them to have a firmer texture, you can store them in the refrigerator for about 5 days. Just remember to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Classic Blondies, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your blondies! First, let them cool completely after baking. Then, cut them into individual bars and flash freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once solid, transfer the bars to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them defrost at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
What should I do if my blondies are too dry or crumbly?
Very! If your blondies turn out dry, it could be from overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. To fix this next time, always keep an eye on the baking time, checking for the right moist crumb texture. You could also add a little extra melted butter or even a tablespoon of milk to the batter to ensure a fudgier texture and prevent drying.
Can I make Classic Blondies nut-free?
Certainly! If you’re looking to skip the nuts for allergy reasons or preference, simply omit the chopped walnuts or pecans from the recipe. The blondies will still be deliciously chewy and rich. Always double-check your chocolate chips too, as some may contain traces of nuts. If you're baking for someone with allergies, choose brands certified nut-free.
How can I customize my Classic Blondies?
Oh, the possibilities! You can substitute white chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even add in some butterscotch chips for a delightful twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try folding in crushed candy bars like Heath or Reese’s for an exciting flavor kick. Adding a touch of almond extract instead of vanilla is another great way to switch things up!
Irresistibly Chewy Classic Blondies You'll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Combine melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and optional nuts.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 23-27 minutes until edges are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.
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