Description
These decadent, chewy blondies are a sophisticated twist on the classic dessert square. By browning the butter until it develops a fragrant, nutty aroma and pairing it with a high ratio of dark brown sugar, this recipe yields a dense, caramel-infused treat with a perfect texture. Perfectly suited for family gatherings or busy weeknights, these alcohol-free bars are a reliable crowd-pleaser that elevates simple ingredients into a gourmet dessert through the chemistry of the Maillard reaction.
Ingredients
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 heaping tsp kosher salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
4 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups dark brown sugar
1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips (60 percent cacao)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease or line a baking pan.
In a light-colored saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and continue cooking, swirling constantly, until it turns golden-brown and smells nutty.
Immediately remove the butter from the heat and transfer to a mixing bowl to cool slightly.
Whisk the dark brown sugar into the warm butter until well combined.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture, whisking until the batter is smooth.
Fold in the flour and kosher salt until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
Stir in the bittersweet chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
Use a light-colored pan for browning the butter so you can accurately monitor the color change. Ensure the butter does not burn. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Use European-style butter for an even richer depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg