Are you craving a decadent, yet surprisingly easy dessert that will impress everyone? Look no further! This Ina Garten blondies recipe delivers the ultimate chewy, gooey texture and irresistible buttery flavor. Forget boxed mixes; homemade blondies are surprisingly simple to make, and the taste is unmatched. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, offering a delicious and satisfying treat for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy the best blondies you've ever had!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or more, if you're feeling decadent!)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your blondies will slide right out once they're baked.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Add Mix-ins
Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using). The mixture will be thick, but that's perfect for achieving that chewy texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Don't overbake! Overbaked blondies will be dry.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Tips for the Best Blondies:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough blondies. Mix until just combined.
- Use good quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the blondies will taste.
- Let them cool completely: This prevents them from crumbling when you cut them.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Try adding butterscotch chips, dried cranberries, or even pretzels for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Salted Caramel Blondies: Add a swirl of salted caramel sauce to the batter before baking.
- Peanut Butter Blondies: Stir in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter with the wet ingredients.
- White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Blondies: Substitute white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts for the semi-sweet chocolate chips and pecans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator online and input your specific ingredients and serving size. Generally speaking, expect a treat that is high in calories, fat, and sugar.
This Ina Garten blondies recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the easy process and the delicious results! They're perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. Let us know in the comments how your blondies turned out!