Introduction
Indulge in the delightful world of baking with this delicious recipe for blondies featuring white chocolate and walnuts. These treats combine a rich, buttery flavor with a nutty crunch and creamy chocolate, making them an irresistible dessert or snack. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these blondies promise to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 125g (8 tablespoons or 1 US stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar (light brown sugar is acceptable, but not dark brown)
– 1 large egg (approximately 50g or 2 oz)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt or kosher salt (use half the amount if using table salt)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 squares or 9 larger squares
Enjoy making these delightful blondies that are sure to bring joy to any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for a fan-forced oven. Grease a 20 cm (8-inch) square pan with unsalted butter, then line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Toast the walnuts
Spread the chopped walnuts evenly on a tray and toast them in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool.
Step 3: Brown the butter
In a light-colored saucepan, place the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally for 3 to 4 minutes until the butter gives off a nutty aroma and small golden specks appear. Transfer the browned butter along with the golden bits into a mixing bowl immediately.
Step 4: Combine butter and sugar
Add the brown sugar to the hot browned butter, mixing well with a wooden spoon. Allow the mixture to cool for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate egg and vanilla
Once the butter-sugar mixture has cooled slightly, add the egg and vanilla extract. Stir well until fully combined.
Step 6: Add flour and salt
Sift in the all-purpose flour along with the kosher salt (or half the amount if using table salt). Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The batter will be thick, similar to cookie dough.
Step 7: Mix in chocolate and walnuts
Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and the toasted walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Prepare for baking
Transfer the batter into the prepared square pan, spreading and smoothing the top with a spatula or your hands to create an even surface.
Step 9: Bake the blondies
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the surface has formed a thin, crackly layer.
Step 10: Cool the blondies
Once baked, let the blondies rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a cutting board to cool for at least another 10 minutes. Optionally, sprinkle the top with sea salt flakes.
Step 11: Cut and enjoy
Cut the cooled blondies into 16 smaller squares or 9 larger squares as desired, and enjoy your delicious treat!
Notes
Note 1: Brown sugar
Using light brown sugar is recommended for a milder flavor, while dark brown sugar can result in a richer taste.
Note 2: Egg size
Ensure that the large egg used is approximately 50g (2 oz) for accurate measurements.
Note 3: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Note 4: Customization
Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts, or omit them completely if preferred. Additional mix-ins like dried fruit or coconut can also be used.
Cook techniques
Browning Butter
Browning butter involves melting it and allowing it to cook until it turns a golden color and has a nutty aroma. This process enhances the flavor of the butter and adds depth to baked goods.
Toasting Nuts
Toasting walnuts in the oven helps to intensify their flavor and crunchiness. Spread them evenly on a tray and bake for a few minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
When mixing wet ingredients like melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla with dry ingredients such as flour and salt, it’s important to do this gently to minimize gluten development and maintain a tender texture.
Folding in Ingredients
Gently folding in chocolate chips and walnuts into the batter ensures they are evenly distributed without overmixing, which can lead to a tough texture.
Proper Cooling
Allowing the blondies to cool in the pan and then on a cutting board helps to set their structure and enhances flavor. The resting time also allows for easier cutting.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe.
What can I substitute for white chocolate chips?
You can use dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips as alternatives.
How should I store leftover blondies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
Can I freeze blondies?
Yes, you can freeze blondies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even leave out the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
Conclusion
These blondies offer a delightful combination of rich, buttery flavors enhanced by the sweetness of brown sugar and the creamy texture of white chocolate. The toasted walnuts add a lovely crunch, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget the optional sprinkle of sea salt for an extra layer of flavor.
White Chocolate and Raspberry Blondies
Substitute half of the white chocolate chips with fresh raspberries for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Chip Blondies
Use semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a classic flavor combination.
Coconut Blondies
Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair.
Peanut Butter Swirled Blondies
Add dollops of peanut butter into the batter before baking for a rich, nutty addition.
Maple Pecan Blondies
Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup and add chopped pecans for a unique taste.
Mint White Chocolate Blondies
Add mint extract to the batter and use mint-flavored white chocolate for a refreshing dessert.
Espresso Blondies
Incorporate espresso powder to give a coffee-flavored kick to the blonde base.
Brown Butter and Sea Salt Blondies
For a richer taste, enhance the browning of the butter, and finish with an extra sprinkle of sea salt.
