Introduction
Indulge in a delightful treat with this recipe for decadent white chocolate walnut blondies. These sweet bars, with their rich flavor and chewy texture, are perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, they will quickly become a favorite among family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 125g (8 tablespoons or 1 US stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar (light brown sugar also acceptable, but not dark brown)
– 1 large egg (~50g/2 oz)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup plain/all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt (halve 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
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 squares or 9 giant squares
Enjoy the process of making these delightful blondies! With a simple method and tasty ingredients, you’ll have a scrumptious dessert that is sure to please everyone.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced). Grease a 20 cm/8″ square pan with butter and line it with baking paper (parchment paper).
Step 2: Roast the Walnuts
Spread the walnuts on a tray and roast for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
Place the butter in a silver saucepan (not black) over medium-high heat. Once melted, lower the heat to medium so it simmers gently. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally (it will become foamy), until it smells nutty and you see little golden specks in the butter. Immediately pour the butter and all the golden bits into a bowl.
Step 4: Combine Butter and Sugar
Add the sugar into the hot butter and mix to combine using a wooden spoon. Leave to cool for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Step 6: Mix in Flour and Salt
Add the flour and salt, and mix to combine. The mixture will be very thick, almost like rollable cookie dough.
Step 7: Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Add the chocolate chips and walnuts, mixing through.
Step 8: Transfer to Pan
Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan, spread, and smooth the surface (using hands if necessary).
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are lightly tinged with gold and the surface has a paper-thin “crackly” layer.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Rest in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting onto a cutting board. Cool for at least another 10 minutes (to prevent it from being too soft and smeary), sprinkle with salt flakes (if using).
Step 11: Cut and Enjoy
Cut into 16 squares or 9 giant squares, then enjoy!
Notes
Note 1: Type of Sugar
Use light brown sugar for a milder flavor; avoid dark brown sugar.
Note 2: Walnuts
Ensure walnuts are roughly chopped for even dispersion in the batter.
Note 3: Salt Types
If using table salt, reduce the amount to 1/8 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish.
Note 4: Cooling Time
Allow enough cooling time to ensure the squares hold their shape when cut.
Note 5: Sea Salt Flakes
Optional sprinkling of sea salt flakes enhances the flavor contrast with sweet ingredients.
Cook techniques
Butter Browning
Browning butter brings out its nutty flavor. Melt unsalted butter over medium-high heat, then lower to medium and simmer until it foams and develops a golden color.
Roasting Nuts
Roasting walnuts enhances their flavor. Spread them on a tray and bake at 180°C/350°F for 5 minutes. This brings out their natural oils and makes them crisp.
Mixing Techniques
When combining ingredients, use a wooden spoon for the best results. This ensures thorough incorporation without overmixing, especially when introducing flour.
Texture Check
The mixture should be thick and almost dough-like after adding flour. This consistency is key for achieving the right texture in the final product.
Baking Time
Bake until the edges are lightly golden and the surface has a paper-thin crackly layer. This indicates that the base is set while keeping a moist center.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While you can use salted butter, it may alter the flavor balance of the recipe. It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the salt levels.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
You can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts entirely if preferred.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
The blondies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the center has a slight jiggle yet feels set when touched.
How should I store leftover blondies?
Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the blondies?
Yes, you can freeze blondies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
These delicious white chocolate and walnut squares are a perfect treat for any occasion. Their buttery texture, combined with the sweetness of the chocolate chips and the rich, nutty flavor of the roasted walnuts, creates a delightful dessert that is sure to please. Easy to prepare and share, they are perfect for gatherings or as a special snack at home.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Substitute the white chocolate chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips for classic chocolate chip cookies. Add some pecans for a rich, nutty twist.
Brownies with Butterscotch Chips
Replace white chocolate chips with butterscotch chips and add a dash of cinnamon for a cozy flavor profile.
Oatmeal Walnut Cookies
Incorporate a cup of rolled oats and keep the walnuts. This combination adds texture and heartiness to each bite.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
Mix in half a cup of creamy peanut butter with the melted butter for a delightful peanut butter and chocolate combo.
Dried Fruit and Nut Squares
Replace walnuts with a mix of dried cranberries and almonds for a fruity alternative that adds a burst of flavor.
Coconut Macadamia Nut Bars
Substitute walnuts with chopped macadamia nuts and sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for a tropical twist.
