If you are searching for a warm, sweet, and utterly inviting treat, look no further than this Classic Blondies Recipe. These golden, buttery bars are packed with rich brown sugar flavor and a tender yet chewy texture that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer them plain or studded with chocolate chips and nuts, this recipe always delivers that nostalgic comfort that feels like a hug in dessert form. It’s simple, quick to prepare, and leaves your kitchen smelling heavenly. Once you try this Classic Blondies Recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for this recipe are a handful of everyday pantry staples that come together to create those luscious, moist blondies. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the buttery richness to the subtle crunch and sweetness, making this recipe reliably delicious every time.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds a rich, creamy base essential for that tender crumb and buttery flavor.
- 2 cups light brown sugar (packed): Provides deep caramel notes and a slight chewiness that blondies are famous for.
- 2 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together while giving the blondies structure and moisture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the flavors.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the blondies their body; not too cakey, not too dense.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the blondies rise just enough to stay soft and fluffy.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional): Offers melty, sweet pockets of chocolate that complement the buttery base perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast if you love texture in your blondies.
How to Make Classic Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to make removing the blondies a breeze after baking. This initial prep sets you up for perfectly shaped bars every time.
Step 2: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and packed light brown sugar until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture. This step infuses your base with rich flavor and is the secret behind the signature moist texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix everything until combined; the batter should look glossy and slightly thick. This is the moment when your blondies start coming together.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your leavening is evenly distributed, helping your blondies rise beautifully and develop the ideal crumb.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make your bars tough, so keep it gentle and minimal for tender results.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts (Optional)
This is the fun part! Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts if you are using them. These additions transform the blondies into something extra special—oozing pockets of chocolate and delightful crunches with every bite.
Step 7: Bake Your Blondies
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns a gorgeous golden color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. For chewier blondies, try taking them out a minute or two earlier.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let your blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. Cooling lets the bars set properly, making it easier to cut neat, clean pieces that hold their shape perfectly.
How to Serve Classic Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch. For an indulgent twist, drizzle some melted caramel or a handful of extra chocolate chips on top while the bars are still warm for a melty, irresistible finish.
Side Dishes
Classic blondies shine as a dessert served alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of ice cream balances the rich, buttery sweetness beautifully, making every bite an experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut blondies into bite-sized squares and thread them onto skewers alongside marshmallows and strawberries for an eye-catching dessert platter. Alternatively, use them as the base for mini ice cream sandwiches—just sandwich a scoop between two blondie squares for a fun, handheld treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This keeps them moist and fresh, ready for quick snacking any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Freezing
If you want to save blondies for even longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To enjoy warm blondies after storage or freezing, microwave them for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes. This brings back that freshly-baked softness and melty goodness just like right out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I make blondies without nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! This Classic Blondies Recipe is delicious plain, showcasing rich buttery and brown sugar flavors. Omitting mix-ins lets you enjoy the simple, classic treat in its purest form.
How do I achieve chewier blondies?
For chewier blondies, bake them for slightly less time, removing them when a toothpick still has a few moist crumbs. Allow them to cool completely to set for that perfect chewy texture.
Can I use white chocolate or butterscotch chips instead?
Yes, swapping chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips adds a delightful variation. These alternative chips pair beautifully with the sweet, buttery batter for a unique twist on the Classic Blondies Recipe.
What’s the best pan size to use?
A 9×13-inch pan is ideal as it results in blondies that are thick and gooey in the center with a nice golden crust. Using a smaller pan will make them thicker, while a larger pan will make them thinner.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
With a suitable gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, you can adapt this recipe. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the blondies’ chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Blondies Recipe is a true kitchen keeper—easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone who loves a rich, buttery bar with a hint of caramel sweetness. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes your go-to dessert for any occasion.
Print
Classic Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 blondies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Blondies are rich, chewy dessert bars featuring a buttery, brown sugar base with optional chocolate chips and nuts for added texture and flavor. These easy-to-make bars bake to a golden perfection and offer a sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure the blondies don’t stick and come out easily once baked.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and packed light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the rich, buttery base of the blondies.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the two large eggs and two teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth, which will help create a tender texture in the finished blondies.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning throughout the batter.
- Incorporate Dry Into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the blondies tough.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in semisweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts if desired, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for added sweetness and crunch.
- Spread Batter and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the baking pan on a wire rack before cutting into 16 squares to serve, ensuring they set properly for a chewy texture.
Notes
- For chewier blondies, slightly underbake them and let them set as they cool in the pan.
- You can swap semisweet chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
- Omit chocolate chips and nuts to enjoy a classic plain blondie.
