If you’re craving a sweet treat, these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies are a must-try! They blend rich caramel, gooey chocolate, and a soft, chewy base. Not only are they simple to make, but they also impress at any gathering. Follow my easy steps and tips for perfect blondies every time. Ready to dive into this delicious dessert? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies
To make these blondies, you need a mix of simple, tasty ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
These ingredients come together to create a sweet and salty treat. The butter gives richness, while the sugars add sweetness.
Recommended Brands for Chocolate Chips and Caramel Sauce
I love using Ghirardelli or Nestlé for chocolate chips. They melt well and taste great. For caramel sauce, try Smucker’s or homemade. Homemade sauce is easy to make and super fresh.
Substitutions and Allergens to Consider
If you have allergies, here are some swaps:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– Replace eggs with flax eggs for a vegan choice.
– Almond flour can work instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-free needs.
Always check labels for allergens. These swaps let everyone enjoy these blondies without worry.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Preheating Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan. You can grease it well or line it with parchment paper. Lining helps with easy removal later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk them together until they blend well. Next, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients and Forming the Batter
In another bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the blondies tough.
Next, fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips. Ensure they are evenly spread throughout the batter. This way, every bite has that rich chocolatey goodness.
Layering Caramel and Baking
Pour half of the blondie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Then, drizzle 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce over this layer. Be gentle and don’t mix it too much. Spoon the remaining batter on top of the caramel, smoothing it out with a spatula. Sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top to enhance that sweet and salty flavor.
Tips for Checking Doneness
Bake your blondies in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs sticking to it. If it comes out wet with batter, bake a little longer. Once done, let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Blondie Texture
To get a soft and chewy blondie, mix the batter just enough. Over-mixing can make them tough. Use melted butter for a rich flavor. Make sure your oven is fully preheated. This helps them rise and set well. Try not to bake them too long. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not dry.
Storage Guidelines for Freshness
Store your blondies in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. Remember to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
To reheat, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them soft. Warm them for about 10 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Heat them for about 15-20 seconds. This makes them warm and gooey, just like fresh from the oven.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Dried Fruits
You can add nuts or dried fruits to your blondies for extra flavor. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work well. If you prefer dried fruits, try using chopped dried cherries or cranberries. Add about 1 cup of your chosen ingredient into the batter. This will add a nice crunch and chewiness. It gives your blondies a unique twist.
Alternative Flavor Combinations
To switch up the flavor, you can add espresso powder. This gives a rich coffee taste. Use about 1 tablespoon of espresso powder mixed into your dry ingredients. You can also try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. These flavors blend nicely with the chocolate and caramel. It makes each bite even more exciting.
Gluten-Free Adaptation Options
If you need gluten-free blondies, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it has a good mix of starches and flours. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor. Just check that your baking powder is gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Ideas for Parties and Gatherings
To wow your guests, serve the blondies warm. Cut them into neat squares. Drizzle melted salted caramel on top. Sprinkle sea salt flakes for that perfect touch. Place them on a beautiful platter. Add fresh berries or mint leaves for color. This simple decor makes the dessert look fancy.
Pairing with Ice Cream and Other Desserts
Blondies taste amazing with ice cream. Vanilla is a classic choice, but feel free to try salted caramel or chocolate flavors. Serve a warm blondie on a scoop of ice cream. Drizzle more salted caramel sauce on top. It’s a sweet treat that everyone will love.
You can also serve blondies with whipped cream or a berry coulis. This adds freshness and balance to the sweet flavors. The combination is perfect for any dessert table.
Creative Ways to Serve with Coffee or Tea
Blondies pair well with coffee or tea. Serve them alongside your favorite brew for a cozy treat. A rich dark roast coffee enhances the sweet flavors. For tea lovers, try a light herbal tea. It brings a refreshing contrast to the dessert.
You can cut the blondies into smaller bites for easy snacking. Arrange them on a small plate with your drink. This makes for a charming afternoon treat. Everyone will enjoy the warm, sweet flavors with their drinks.
FAQs
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar. Light brown sugar has less molasses than dark. This makes blondies a bit lighter in flavor. The texture will still be soft and chewy. You may lose some depth in taste, but they will still be tasty.
How can I make homemade salted caramel sauce?
To make salted caramel sauce, start with sugar. Heat it in a pan until it melts and turns golden. Slowly add butter and cream, stirring to blend. Add a pinch of sea salt. Let it cool before using. This sauce adds a rich flavor to your blondies.
What can I do if my blondies are undercooked?
If your blondies are undercooked, return them to the oven. Bake them for an extra 5 to 10 minutes. Check them often with a toothpick. It should come out mostly clean. Remember, a few moist crumbs are okay, but no wet batter.
How long do salted caramel chocolate chip blondies last?
These blondies can last for about 3 to 5 days. Store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. Just remember to let them warm up before serving.
Can I freeze blondies for later use?
Yes, you can freeze blondies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you want to eat them, thaw them at room temperature. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
You now know how to make delicious salted caramel chocolate chip blondies. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips for the best results. You can even explore variations and serving ideas to impress guests.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Enjoy creating your own blondie masterpiece! Your friends and family will love these sweet treats. Dive into baking and have fun experimenting.
