Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering, then you absolutely must try these Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies! They are a cozy treat that combines the rich nuttiness of brown butter with the delightful crunch of pecans and gooey chocolate chunks. Each bite is like a little hug, perfect for family gatherings or just a comforting sweet at the end of a busy day.

What makes these blondies truly special is how simple they are to whip up. Whether it’s a weeknight craving or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, the subtle hint of bourbon adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates these blondies to something unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious blondies ready to bake in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will adore the chewy texture and chocolatey goodness—perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for sharing: These blondies are great for potlucks, parties, or simply enjoying with friends over coffee.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a sweet treat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of brown butter, pecans, and chocolate creates a taste sensation that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delightful dessert!

For the Blondies

• 4 ounces unsalted butter, melted until browned
• 1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 2 and 1/2 tablespoons bourbon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg plus one egg yolk, at room temperature
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped into chunks
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try using walnuts or almonds instead for a different crunch.
• Add spices: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of nutmeg or even some espresso powder for an extra flavor kick!
• Mix in dried fruit: Toss in some chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity twist that complements the sweetness perfectly.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.

How to Make Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and give it a light spray with non-stick spray. This will ensure your blondies come out easily once baked—no one likes a stuck dessert!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter until it becomes browned. This step is crucial as browning the butter enhances its flavor, giving your blondies that deliciously nutty taste. Keep an eye on it as it can go from perfectly browned to burnt quite quickly!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your browned butter has cooled slightly, pour it into a large heatproof mixing bowl. Whisk in the light brown sugar until everything is well mixed. Then stir in the bourbon (don’t worry; most of the alcohol cooks off) and vanilla extract. Next, add in your egg and egg yolk, beating until fully combined.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the all-purpose flour along with ground cinnamon and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely chewy blondies! Finally, fold in the chopped toasted pecans and chocolate chunks.

Step 5: Bake!

Spread your batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for about 24 minutes or until you see golden edges and the center feels slightly wobbly when you shake it gently. Don’t overbake—the gooeyness is part of their charm!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let them cool in the pan for at least an hour before cutting them into squares. If you’re feeling fancy (or just love salt), sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top right before serving! Enjoy these delightful treats warm or at room temperature—you really can’t go wrong!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you craft the perfect blondies that everyone will adore!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality chocolate make a significant difference in flavor and texture. They ensure your blondies are rich and delightful!
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your blondies chewy rather than cake-like. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to a fluffy texture instead of the desired density.
• Cool before cutting: Allow your blondies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set properly, resulting in cleaner cuts and gooier centers.
• Experiment with mix-ins: While pecans and chocolate chunks are delicious, feel free to swap in other nuts or even dried fruits like cranberries for a fun twist!
• Store correctly: To maintain freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer storage.

How to Serve Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies

Serving these blondies is just as important as making them! They’re perfect for sharing, so let’s elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle on top enhances the flavors and adds a sophisticated touch.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free alternative, serve with whipped coconut cream for extra creaminess.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an eye-catching finish that also amps up the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm blondies perfectly, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side that balances out the sweetness of the blondies. Choose seasonal fruits for maximum flavor!
• Coffee or espresso: Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The bitterness pairs beautifully with the sweet, buttery flavors of the blondies.
• Caramel sauce: For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each serving for an indulgent treat!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies will not only taste amazing but also look irresistible on any dessert table! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and have delicious treats ready for any occasion. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your blondies for maximum enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge, where they will last up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the blondies into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date so you know when they were made.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen blondies, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
• Warm them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warm.
• For a crispy edge, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies experience!

Can I make these Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies without bourbon?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of vanilla extract or even almond extract for a delightful twist.

How do I know when my Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies are done baking?

The edges should be firm and golden brown while the center remains slightly wobbly. This ensures a chewy texture once cooled!

What’s the best way to serve Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies?

These blondies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them warm with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream!

Can I add other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! Feel free to use walnuts or even chocolate chips if you’re looking to change things up. Just remember to keep it nut-free if allergies are a concern.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these scrumptious Brown Butter Bourbon Butter Pecan Blondies as much as I do! Their chewy texture combined with the rich flavor of brown butter and toasted pecans makes them incredibly special. Perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself! Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!