Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

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Cook Time: 35 minutes

These warm and cozy maple pecan blondies have a delightful brownie-like texture with fudgy centers and crunchy edges, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Heres how to make them from scratch.

Maple Pecan Blondies Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped, divided

How to Make Maple Pecan Blondies

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious maple pecan blondies:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring it extends over the sides for easy removal later.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set the mixture aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Heat over medium, stirring constantly for about 6 minutes, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Pour the cooled butter mixture into the flour mixture, and stir until just combined. Fold in 1 1/4 cups of the toasted, chopped pecans.
6. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of pecans over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the internal temperature reaches 200F (93C).
8. Remove from the oven and let the blondies cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack. Then, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper and cool completely on the wire rack.
9. Once fully cooled, cut the blondies into bars and serve. Enjoy!

Test Kitchen Tips

• If you prefer a more cakey texture, bake the blondies a bit longer until a toothpick comes out clean, about 40 minutes.
• For a delicious twist, serve these warm blondies with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature; the blondies should reach at least 180F (82C) for food safety, but our testers found the ideal center temperature to be 200F (93C).

How to Store Maple Pecan Blondies

Store these blondies in an airtight at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them for longer, freeze them for up to three months. Simply thaw them before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 284
• Total Fat: 15g (20% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (28% DV)
• Cholesterol: 44mg (15% DV)
• Sodium: 198mg (9% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g (12% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% DV)
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 3g (7% DV)
• Calcium: 54mg (4% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (7% DV)
• Potassium: 109mg (2% DV)

Maple Pecan Blondies are a decadent twist on the classic blondie, infused with the rich sweetness of maple syrup and the crunchiness of toasted pecans. These treats offer a chewy, brownie-like texture that is complemented by crispy edges, making them an irresistible snack or dessert.

History and Origins

The blondie, often referred to as a "blonde brownie," is a cousin to the traditional brownie, made without cocoa powder, thus giving it a golden color. While blondies have become a beloved dessert in North America, their exact origin is debated. Some believe they were invented in the United States in the late 19th century as a variation of brownies, while others claim they are a European creation. The inclusion of maple syrup and pecans in the Maple Pecan Blondie recipe is a nod to the distinctive flavors of North America, particularly the northeastern United States and parts of Canada, where maple syrup is a staple ingredient.

Regional Variations

Maple syrup is a key ingredient in this version of blondies, and it gives the dessert a distinctly regional flair. In the United States, maple syrup is most commonly associated with Vermont, where it is produced in large quantities. In Canada, particularly in Quebec, maple syrup is a national treasure. The pairing of maple syrup with pecans further enhances the regional character of the dish, as pecans are often found in southern parts of the U.S. The warm, rich flavors of maple and the nutty crunch of pecans are perfect for cold weather, making these blondies a popular choice for autumn and winter gatherings.

How Maple Pecan Blondies Stand Out

While blondies are often made with butterscotch or chocolate chips, the Maple Pecan Blondies take a different approach. The key difference lies in the use of maple syrup instead of brown sugar as the primary sweetener. This gives the blondies a distinctive caramelized flavor with a deep, syrupy richness that regular blondies lack. The addition of toasted pecans provides a satisfying crunch and a slightly earthy taste that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.

Where Are Maple Pecan Blondies Typically Served?

Maple Pecan Blondies are a versatile dessert, perfect for a variety of occasions. They are commonly served at holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, where their warm, comforting flavors pair well with the seasonal atmosphere. These blondies also make a great addition to afternoon tea, coffee breaks, or as a simple sweet treat after dinner. In some regions, they are even enjoyed as a breakfast or brunch item, especially when served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Fun Facts

• The name "blondie" is thought to be a playful reference to the light color of the dessert, as opposed to "brownie," which is made with chocolate.
• Maple syrup, a central ingredient in this recipe, is produced from the sap of sugar maple trees, a process that takes place during the early spring in North America.
• Pecans, the nut featured in this dessert, are native to North America and are a common ingredient in Southern U.S. cuisine, often found in pies and pralines.
• In the 18th century, the first recorded mention of maple syrup appeared in a Canadian manuscript, marking its historical significance in the region.

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