If you’re craving a sweet treat that combines gooey chocolate chips with rich, buttery caramel, you’ve come to the right place. My Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies are not only easy to make but are also packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, these blondies will surely impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and create this delightful dessert together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed tightly
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sea salt flakes for topping
Recommended Ingredient Brands
I love using high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. For butter, I recommend Kerrygold for its rich taste. Use Domino for sugars; it always gives a great texture. For chocolate, Ghirardelli or Guittard are my go-to brands. They melt perfectly and add depth. If you want a good caramel sauce, look for Smucker’s or make your own for freshness.
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
If you’re out of butter, coconut oil works well. For eggs, try unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. You can swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free option. If you want less sugar, use coconut sugar instead. Just remember, it might change the flavor a bit.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This will help the blondies come out easily once baked.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of melted unsalted butter with 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. Next, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Make sure to whisk well after each one. Lastly, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. This mix adds structure to your blondies. Gradually blend these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your blondies soft.
Layering the Blondie Batter
Now, pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Carefully drizzle 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce over this layer. Spread it gently, avoiding the blondie batter below. Then, spoon the rest of the batter on top, smoothing it out evenly.
Baking Guidelines
Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the top for an extra touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the blondies cool in the pan for 20 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delightful treat!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Right Blondie Texture
To get the best blondie texture, mix the batter gently. Overmixing can make them tough. You want a soft, chewy treat with a slight crust. The batter should be thick but smooth. When you add the dry ingredients, fold them in carefully. This keeps the blondies light and tender.
Best Practices for Melting Butter
Melt your butter slowly, either on the stove or in the microwave. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between bursts to avoid overheating. You want it just melted, not bubbling or hot. Cool the butter slightly before mixing with sugar. This helps everything blend together nicely.
How to Achieve a Perfect Salted Caramel Drizzle
For a perfect salted caramel drizzle, warm your sauce slightly before using it. This makes it easier to spread. Drizzle it over the first layer of batter with a spoon. Be careful not to mix it in too much. You want the caramel to create a sweet layer between the blondies. Finally, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on top for that extra touch.
Variations
Gluten-Free Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Blondies
You can make these blondies gluten-free. Just swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for blends that work well in baking. These blends usually have rice flour and starch. The texture stays great, and you still get that chewy bite!
Vegan-Friendly Modifications
Want a vegan version? Use plant-based butter and replace eggs with flaxseed. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes. This mix acts like an egg. Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a vegan caramel sauce. You’ll create a tasty treat everyone can enjoy!
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your blondies easily. Here are a few fun ideas:
– Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
– Different Chips: Try white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a twist.
– Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
– Fruit: Mix in dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity touch.
These variations keep your blondies exciting and fun for everyone!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Blondies
To keep your blondies fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can stack them with parchment paper between layers. This keeps them from sticking together. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just note that cold blondies can become a bit dense.
Freezing Instructions for Long-term Storage
If you want to save your blondies for later, freezing works well. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they stay fresh for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips for Best Taste
Reheating blondies can bring back their warm, soft texture. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Check to see if they are warm enough. If you want a crispy top, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy your blondies warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make these blondies without eggs?
Yes, you can make these blondies without eggs. Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana for each egg. These options help keep the blondies moist and tasty. You may also consider using 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water as an egg replacement. This adds fiber and binds the ingredients well.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
To check if the blondies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The edges should look golden brown. If they still look wet or sticky, bake a few more minutes. Remember, they will firm up as they cool.
What should I serve with salted caramel chocolate chip blondies?
These blondies are rich and sweet, making them great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also serve them warm with extra salted caramel drizzled on top. Pairing them with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, adds a nice contrast too. For a cozy touch, serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
How to make homemade salted caramel sauce?
To make homemade salted caramel sauce, follow these steps:
1. In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until it melts into a golden liquid.
2. Once melted, add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir until fully combined.
3. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Be careful; it will bubble up.
4. Remove from heat and add 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix well.
5. Let it cool before using. Store any leftovers in a jar in the fridge for later use.
This blog post covered every step to make salted caramel chocolate chip blondies. You learned about key ingredients, tips for the best texture, and easy variations. I shared how to store and reheat these treats so they stay yummy.
In the end, baking is fun and rewarding. With a few simple tricks, you can enjoy delicious blondies anytime. Happy baking!
