If you’re searching for a sweet treat that wraps you up in warm, cozy vibes, this Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe is exactly what you need. With its buttery base, toasted pecans, and that unmistakable rich maple flavor, these blondies offer the perfect balance of chewy texture and nutty crunch, making them a standout comfort dessert all year round. Whether you’re baking for a casual coffee break or a festive fall gathering, these blondies are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and bring smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s incredible about this recipe is how a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create such an unforgettable experience. Each component plays its part perfectly — butter for luscious moisture, brown sugar for caramel notes, and pecans adding just the right crunch with a toasty warmth.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup / 115 g): Melted to add rich, creamy flavor that keeps the blondies irresistibly moist.
- Brown sugar (1 cup / 200 g): Provides deep caramel sweetness and that chewy texture we love.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together while contributing to a tender crumb.
- Pure maple extract (2 tsp) or real maple syrup (1 tbsp): Infuses the blondies with authentic maple essence, the star flavor of this recipe.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup / 125 g): The structure that supports the chew and sets the body of these bars.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances all the sweet and nutty flavors, balancing them beautifully.
- Chopped pecans, toasted (½ cup): Adds a crunchy texture and nutty richness that perfectly complements the maple taste.
How to Make Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. This helps the blondies bake evenly and makes removing them a breeze once they’re ready.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
Whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step ensures your blondies will have that signature chewy, caramelized texture.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Maple Flavor
Beat in the egg along with the pure maple extract or real maple syrup. These ingredients infuse the batter with moisture and that warm, homemade maple goodness that makes this blondies recipe stand out.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Stir in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt just until combined. Overmixing here can make the blondies dense, so gentle folding is key.
Step 5: Fold in Toasted Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped, toasted pecans to distribute that nutty crunch evenly throughout the batter, elevating texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for golden edges and a slightly firm center—classic signs that your blondies are perfectly baked. Be sure to let them cool before slicing to keep the pieces intact and luscious.
How to Serve Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair and sweetness, consider drizzling a simple maple glaze over the cooled blondies. You can make this by whisking powdered sugar with just a bit of maple syrup. A sprinkle of chopped pecans on top offers a lovely finishing crunch and looks stunning too.
Side Dishes
These blondies are brilliant alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting the cool creaminess contrast the warm, chewy texture. A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea also pairs beautifully, making every bite a cozy moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these blondies as bite-sized squares on a dessert platter surrounded by fresh fruit or dollops of whipped cream for a party-ready display. They also make a fantastic homemade gift when packaged elegantly with a ribbon and a note about this scrumptious Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them moist and chewy, so each bite tastes fresh.
Freezing
Maple Pecan Blondies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. This makes it super convenient to enjoy your favorite treat anytime.
Reheating
To enjoy warmed blondies, simply microwave a piece for about 15 seconds or pop it under the broiler for a minute to revive that freshly baked warmth. Add a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I use real maple syrup instead of maple extract?
Yes! Both work well, but maple extract offers a more concentrated flavor without adding extra moisture. If using syrup, just a tablespoon adds a lovely natural sweetness and maple aroma.
How can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still shine.
Can I swap pecans for another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts make delicious alternatives. Just toast them lightly to bring out their flavor before folding into the batter.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350 °F (175 °C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, stirring once partway through, until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch carefully so they don’t burn.
Are Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe bars suitable for freezing baked or unbaked?
You can freeze the baked blondies for convenience and quick enjoyment later. Freezing unbaked batter is less common but possible; just thaw completely and bake as directed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comforting mix of maple and toasted pecans in this Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising loved ones, these blondies bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Don’t wait to whip up a batch — your future self will thank you for the cozy, delicious moments these bars create.
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Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 9 blondies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chewy, buttery blondies filled with toasted pecans and rich maple flavor, offering a perfect cozy fall treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or ice cream.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp pure maple extract (or 1 tbsp real maple syrup)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-ins
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the blondies later.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a rich, glossy base for the batter.
- Add Egg and Maple Flavor: Beat in the egg and maple extract (or maple syrup) to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring well to incorporate and enhance the maple flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until you have a uniform batter, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the toasted chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Spread Batter in Pan: Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before lifting out the parchment and cutting into 9 equal pieces for serving.
Notes
- Add white chocolate chips to the batter for extra sweetness and gooey texture.
- Drizzle the finished blondies with a maple glaze for an attractive and flavorful presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
