Butter Pecan Blondies: A Sweet Treat with a Buttery Twist
Butter Pecan Blondies are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich, buttery taste of pecans combined with the chewy, caramel-like texture of blondies. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering, preparing a dessert to share, or simply treating yourself, these blondies are sure to become a favorite. In fact, they bring together the warmth of toasted pecans and the sweetness of brown sugar in a way that feels both indulgent and comforting.
So, what makes these blondies stand out? First of all, the combination of melted butter and brown sugar creates a deep, caramelized flavor that is truly irresistible. Next, there’s the maple glaze, which elevates them to another level. Drizzled on top, it adds just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the nutty richness. Furthermore, a sprinkle of chopped pecans on the glaze not only adds texture but also makes them look bakery-worthy.
If you’re thinking these sound complicated, don’t worry! This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. For instance, melting the butter takes only a few minutes, and toasting the pecans is a quick and easy step that makes a big difference in flavor. Additionally, the ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t need to make a special trip to the store.
Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with ice cream, or with a drizzle of caramel sauce, these blondies are versatile enough for any occasion. Moreover, they’re perfect for sharing during the holidays or keeping as a treat for yourself on a quiet weekend.
So, grab your apron and let’s bake! These Butter Pecan Blondies are the sweet, nutty dessert you didn’t know you needed—but once you try them, you’ll be hooked. With their timeless flavor and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
INGREDIENTS
2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
Maple Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1–2 tsp water (optional, adjust for desired consistency)
¼ cup pecans, finely chopped (for topping)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.
2. Melt butter: In a saucepan or microwave, melt the butter until fully liquified, then let it cool slightly.
3. Mix sugars and butter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is glossy.
5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
6. Toast pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This step enhances their flavor.
7. Fold in pecans: Gently fold the toasted pecans into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
8. Transfer and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared 8×8-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool completely: Let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out onto a wire rack.
10. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and 1–2 tsp water (optional, adjust for desired consistency) until smooth and pourable. The glaze should be thick enough to cling slightly but spread smoothly.
11. Glaze and garnish: Drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled blondies, spreading gently if needed. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the finely chopped pecans evenly over the top.
12. Set, cut, and serve: Allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Toast the pecans for extra flavor: Toasting the pecans in a dry skillet enhances their nutty aroma and brings out a rich, buttery flavor. Stir frequently to avoid burning, as toasted pecans provide a delightful crunch in every bite of your blondies.
- Let the blondies cool completely before glazing: Ensure the blondies are fully cooled before applying the maple glaze. This step prevents the glaze from melting and allows it to set beautifully, making slicing into neat, attractive squares much easier.
- Experiment with additional toppings: While chopped pecans are a classic choice, try drizzling caramel sauce over the maple glaze for added richness. You can also sprinkle flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty twist or serve warm blondies with vanilla ice cream for a crowd-pleasing dessert.