Chocolate Chip Blondies: The Perfect Dessert for Every Occasion

Becky December 13, 2024


When it comes to classic baked treats, brownies often steal the spotlight. But if you haven’t tried chocolate chip blondies, you’re missing out on a rich, chewy, and buttery delight. Unlike their cocoa-filled cousin, blondies have a vanilla-based batter that creates a golden, sweet, and slightly butterscotch-like flavor. Add in gooey chocolate chips, and you’ve got a dessert that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert or a crowd-pleasing party treat, chocolate chip blondies are the perfect choice. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about blondies — from their history to a foolproof recipe.

What Are Chocolate Chip Blondies?

Blondies are a type of dessert bar that shares similarities with brownies but swaps out cocoa powder for vanilla. The result is a dense, chewy treat that tastes like a cross between a soft cookie and a rich brownie. The addition of chocolate chips adds sweetness and texture, making every bite a burst of flavor.

The key to blondies lies in their simplicity. With a base of butter, brown sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla, they come together quickly with minimal effort. Unlike cookies, blondies are baked as a single slab in a pan and cut into squares, making them an easy option for large gatherings.

The History of Blondies

The origins of blondies trace back to the early 20th century, long before chocolate brownies became a sensation. Early versions of blondies, sometimes called "vanilla brownies," were flavored with molasses or brown sugar, which gave them their signature caramel-like taste.

As chocolate became a more prominent baking ingredient, traditional brownies (made with cocoa) gained popularity. But blondies held their ground, appealing to those who preferred a more subtle, buttery sweetness. Over time, chocolate chips, nuts, and even white chocolate chunks were added to blondie recipes, giving them a modern twist.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chip Blondies

  1. Quick and Easy to Make – No need to chill dough or form individual cookies. Just mix, pour, and bake!
  2. Chewy and Fudgy Texture – Thanks to the combination of brown sugar and melted butter, blondies stay moist and chewy.
  3. Customizable Flavors – Swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate, butterscotch, or even nuts.
  4. Perfect for Any Occasion – From bake sales to holiday parties, blondies are always a hit.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Blondies (Step-by-Step Recipe)

Here’s a classic, foolproof recipe for rich, chewy chocolate chip blondies. This version is simple but can be customized with nuts, different types of chocolate, or even a swirl of peanut butter.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
  3. Combine the dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
  4. Fold in the chocolate chips – Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  5. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
  6. Cool and cut – Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Blondies

  • Use Brown Sugar – Brown sugar (rather than white) is essential for that rich, caramel-like flavor and chewy texture.
  • Don’t Overbake – Blondies should be removed from the oven when the center is still slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
  • Experiment with Add-Ins – Get creative by adding chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or dried fruit.
  • Use High-Quality Vanilla – Since blondies rely on vanilla for flavor, use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.

Variations on the Classic Chocolate Chip Blondie

  1. Peanut Butter Swirl Blondies – Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter before baking, then swirl it with a knife.
  2. Salted Caramel Blondies – Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the batter before baking and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty flavor.
  3. Cookies & Cream Blondies – Add crushed chocolate sandwich cookies to the batter.
  4. Espresso Blondies – Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a subtle coffee kick.
  5. Nutty Blondies – Fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a crunchy twist.

How to Store Chocolate Chip Blondies

Blondies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen. Wrap each blondie in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a quick, sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9x13-inch pan. The baking time may increase by a few minutes, so keep an eye on them.

2. How do I make gluten-free blondies?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for the all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still taste delicious.

3. Can I make vegan blondies?
Yes, you can use vegan butter, flaxseed as an egg substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg), and vegan chocolate chips.

4. How do I make them extra gooey?
For extra gooey blondies, slightly underbake them. Pull them out of the oven when the center is still soft but not liquid.

Conclusion

Chocolate chip blondies are a classic dessert with a buttery, caramelized flavor that rivals even the most decadent brownie. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a go-to option for last-minute treats or party desserts. With endless customization possibilities, you can create a new version every time.

So, next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the brownies and bake a batch of blondies instead. You just might find your new favorite dessert!

If you give this recipe a try, let us know how it turned out. Happy baking! 🍪🎉

Becky

Posted by Becky

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