These Maple Pecan Blondies are sweet and chewy, packed with the rich taste of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. They make a perfect treat for any occasion!
Honestly, they disappear quickly at my house! I love serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top for an extra treat. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for flavor. If you’re out of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter; just reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives these blondies a rich taste. If you don’t have it, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses can work as a substitute for a similar flavor.
Pure Maple Syrup: Real maple syrup is best for that unique flavor. For a budget-friendly option, you can use maple-flavored syrup, but the taste will be different.
Pecans: Chopped pecans provide crunch and flavor. You can swap them with walnuts or even chocolate chips if you prefer a different texture!
All-Purpose Flour: This is needed for structure. In a pinch, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.
How Do I Ensure My Blondies are Perfectly Chewy?
The key to achieving that perfect chewy texture lies in the mixing and baking. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough blondies.
- Watch the baking time! Start checking at 25 minutes. They’re ready when the edges are lightly golden, and the center is slightly underbaked (it will continue cooking as they cool).
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting. This helps to set their structure, ensuring they won’t crumble apart.
How to Make Maple Pecan Blondies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blondies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking. After baking, it’s best to let the blondies cool completely, which may take another 30 minutes. So, plan for around an hour and a half total to make these delicious treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your melted butter, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of maple syrup. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed before combining with the wet ones.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—it’s okay if there are a few small lumps. Now, fold in the chopped pecans for that satisfying crunch!
5. Spread the Batter:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. If you like, sprinkle some extra pecans on top for added texture and a nice presentation.
6. Bake:
Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Don’t overbake; we want to keep that chewy texture!
7. Cool Down:
Once baked, take the pan out of the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This will help set the blondies, making them easier to cut.
8. Prepare the Glaze:
While your blondies are cooling, mix your glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and just enough milk or cream until you get a nice drizzle-able consistency.
9. Drizzle and Cut:
Once cool, drizzle the glaze over the top of the blondies. Then, cut them into squares to share (or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here!).
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These maple pecan blondies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days. Enjoy their chewy goodness, the nutty pecans, and that sweet maple flavor!
Can I Use a Different Nut in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a delightful crunch and flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips if you’re looking for a sweeter twist.
How Do I Store Leftover Blondies?
Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before indulging!
Can I Make These Blondies Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture, or add a bit on your own if it doesn’t.
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
If maple syrup is unavailable, you can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor, but the blondies will still be delicious!
