Introduction to Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Creating a sweet treat that is easy, versatile, and utterly delicious is a dream for many young professionals, and that’s where Smitten Kitchen's Blondies come into play. Imagine a delightful cross between butterscotch and brownie, these blondies are characterized by a thin, crackly surface, crispy edges, and a wonderfully chewy center. With a mere 15 minutes of prep time and a baking duration of just 25 minutes, these delectable morsels can seamlessly fit into your busy schedule.
Why are blondies the perfect choice for young professionals?
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Simplicity and Speed: In the whirlwind of work, social commitments, and personal projects, whipping up a batch of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies is a breeze. The uncomplicated ingredients are often kitchen staples, making this a grab-and-go recipe when you’re short on time.
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Versatile Ingredients: Whether you have a sweet tooth for white chocolate and walnuts or prefer a mix with dark chocolate and fruit nuts, the adaptable nature of these blondies allows you to experiment. Adding your favorite goodies not only enhances flavors but also means you can tweak the recipe to match your taste buds!
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Makes You Look Like a Star: Hosting friends? Bringing a dessert to share? Or just indulging in a sweet treat after a long day? These blondies will impress without the stress. Their rich flavor and beautiful presentation can make you look like an expert baker, even if this is your first attempt.
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Perfect for Meal Prep: These blondies can easily be made over the weekend and stored for the week ahead, providing a sweet treat that’s ready when you are. Pack a piece in your lunch or enjoy a square with your afternoon coffee.
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Real Food for Real People: Forget the overly complicated recipes that take hours to prepare. With Smitten Kitchen's Blondies, you’ll find a recipe backed by a trusted source that prioritizes real ingredients and authentic methods.
As you can see, blondies aren't just a dessert—they're a solution for a busy lifestyle. Who wouldn’t want a deliciously sweet addition to their week that requires minimal effort? Ready to get started? Head over to the full recipe and embrace your inner baker!
Ingredients for Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Essential Ingredients for the Base Recipe
To whip up a batch of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients that form the delectable base. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 125g (1 stick) unsalted butter – The secret to that rich flavor is browning it!
- 1 cup brown sugar – Light brown works perfectly for that chewy texture.
- 1 large egg – This binds it all together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a touch of sweetness and warmth.
- 1 cup plain flour (all-purpose) – The foundation of any great bake.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Just a pinch to enhance those flavors.
Optional Add-ins for Customization
The beauty of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies lies in its versatility. Feel free to customize your creation with up to 1.5 cups of add-ins. Here are a few delightful suggestions:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips – Because who doesn’t love more chocolate?
- ½ cup walnuts – Perfectly toasted for extra crunch.
- Macadamia nuts, dried fruit, or even toffee bits – Go wild and let your imagination run free!
With these ingredients and add-ins, you’re well on your way to baking the perfect blondies. For more inspiration, check out Baking 101. Happy baking!
Step-by-step preparation of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
If you’re ready to indulge in the ultimate sweet treat, Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies are the way to go! With their rich butterscotch flavor and cookie-like consistency, these decadent squares are incredibly easy to whip up. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be on your way to baking success in no time!
Gather all your ingredients
To kick things off, you’ll need to ensure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 125g (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (light brown works well too)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Use up to 1.5 cups of your favorite mix-ins, such as:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
Plus, consider a sprinkle of sea salt flakes on top for that gourmet touch. Once you have everything in one place, the fun can truly begin!
Preheat your oven and prepare the baking pan
Next, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it's heating up, grab a 20 cm (8”) square pan. Grease it with butter and line it with parchment paper. This will make those blondies easy to lift out once they’re baked, and who doesn’t want an effortless cleanup?
Brown the butter for enhanced flavor
Now, let’s dive into a crucial step that elevates the flavor profile of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies. In a silver saucepan (not black), melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s melted, lower the heat slightly—the goal is to let it simmer gently for about 3 to 4 minutes.
Keep an eye on it! As it cooks, it will foam up and develop a nutty aroma. Look for the little golden specks that form as it browns. When you reach that glorious, nutty smell, transfer the butter and those golden bits into a bowl. This step is non-negotiable; trust me, it makes all the difference!
Mix the sugar and butter, and add in your wet ingredients
While the browned butter is still warm, add your brown sugar to the bowl and mix well with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture cool for about three minutes, which will help prevent the egg from scrambling when added. Once cooled, add the egg and vanilla extract—stir until combined. Easy peasy!
Combine the dry ingredients and create the batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Slowly fold this dry mix into your wet ingredients. Be cautious! You don't want over-mixing, but be sure that everything is just combined. The batter will be thick, resembling cookie dough, which is exactly what you want to see!
Fold in your choice of add-ins
Now comes the fun part—fold in your selected add-ins. Whether you opt for white chocolate chips and walnuts or something else entirely, mix them into the batter gracefully. Feel free to explore other options, like milk chocolate or even dried fruits!
Bake and achieve that perfect crackly top
Scrape the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes. Stay close to the oven—you want the edges to be lightly golden, while the center should maintain that slightly underbaked texture that makes them chewy. Look for that signature crackly top, and you're golden!
Cool and cut for serving
Once baked, let your blondies sit in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cutting board, allowing them to cool for at least another 10 minutes. After cooling, cut them into squares and indulge in your delicious Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies!
Enjoy this delightful treat with a cup of your favorite coffee or a chilled glass of milk. Happy baking!
Variations on Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Creating a batch of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies opens the door to a world of delicious variations! Whether you’re looking to tweak the recipe for a personal touch or simply want to experiment with flavors, here are some fun and tasty ideas to inspire your baking adventure.
Nutty Variations: Walnuts or Macadamia Nuts
For those who love a crunch, adding walnuts or macadamia nuts can elevate your blondies. Toasting these nuts enhances their flavor, bringing out a rich nuttiness that perfectly complements the sweet butterscotch notes of the blondies. Simply fold in about ½ cup of chopped nuts into your batter for that extra bite. You could also mix and match: try walnuts with white chocolate or macadamias paired with dark chocolate for a delightful twist!
Chocolatey Variations: Dark or Milk Chocolate Chips
No dessert is complete without a touch of chocolate! Introduce dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar. Alternatively, if you prefer something sweeter, fold in milk chocolate chips. Using a combination of both can create an indulgent layer of chocolate goodness that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Fruity Twists: Dried Fruits like Cranberries or Apricots
Take your Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies to a fruity realm by incorporating dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots. The tartness of cranberries gives a refreshing contrast to the rich blondie base, while apricots lend a chewy texture and subtle sweetness. Just toss in about ¾ cup of your favorite dried fruit alongside your chocolate chips for a vibrant pop of flavor.
Experimenting with these variations not only makes your blondies unique, but also offers a chance to cater to different tastes in your circle. So gather your friends, whip up a batch, and enjoy a delightful blondie experience!
Baking Tips and Notes for Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Importance of Using Browned Butter
Don’t skip the browned butter—it’s a game changer for Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies! Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your blondies to a whole new level. When you heat the butter, you’re not just melting it; you’re creating delightful little caramel notes that mingle beautifully with the brown sugar. For a deeper dive into the science of browning butter, check out this helpful guide.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
For that perfect chewy texture, be mindful of a few key tips:
- Mix just until combined: Overmixing can lead to tough blondies, so once you add your flour, stir gently.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the batter to rest in the pan for a few minutes before cutting will help them set properly, avoiding a gummy center.
- Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different, so start checking around the 20-minute mark. You want the edges to be slightly golden and the center to have that desired crackly surface.
Happy baking! Enjoy your delicious blondies, knowing they’re a beautiful blend of flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions for Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Pairing Blondies with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
There’s something truly magical about pairing Smitten Kitchen’s blondies with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Whether you opt for classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or even a fruity sorbet, the contrast between the warm blondie and the cold creaminess creates an unforgettable experience. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle a few chopped nuts to enhance those glorious butterscotch flavors.
Creative Ways to Serve Blondies at Gatherings
Elevate your blondie experience at your next gathering with these creative serving ideas:
- Blondie Sundaes: Layer chunks of blondies with scoops of ice cream, hot fudge, and whipped cream for a delightful sundae.
- Dessert Platter: Cut your blondies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter alongside fresh fruit, cookies, and other desserts to tempt your guests.
- Coffee Companion: Serve warm blondies with coffee or a spicy chai latte for a cozy afternoon treat.
These suggestions will take your blondies to the next level, ensuring they’re a hit at any occasion! For even more pairing tips, check out Food & Wine.
Time Breakdown for Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Preparation Time
Getting started on these delicious blondies is easy and quick! You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients and get everything in place. This includes browning the butter – a crucial step that adds fantastic flavor.
Baking Time
Once your buttery batter is ready, pop it in the oven! Allow it to bake for 25 minutes, until the edges are golden. You'll notice that iconic crackly top forming as it bakes.
Total Time
For the entire process from prep to cutting, you're looking at approximately 50 minutes. This includes cooling time, so you can savor your blondies at their best texture. Perfect for a sweet treat after dinner or an afternoon snack! Enjoy these Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies that are not just easy, but also versatile enough to create your unique combinations!
Nutritional Facts for Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Calories per serving
Each serving of Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies contains approximately 150-180 calories. This makes them a delightful treat that won’t completely derail your day.
Sugar content
These blondies boast a sugar content of around 12-15 grams per serving. While indulging in something sweet, this balance keeps it enjoyable without feeling overly sugary.
Key nutrients
Packed with a mix of essential nutrients, each serving typically includes:
- Fat: 7-10 grams (largely from the buttery goodness)
- Protein: 1-2 grams (thanks to the egg)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams (mostly from the flour and sugar)
With a touch of white chocolate and nuts, these blondies not only satisfy sweet cravings but also provide some nutritional value. Perfect for a sweet lift during your busy day, you can enjoy these while balancing indulgence with nutrition! For more detailed nutritional insights, check out the USDA food database.
FAQs about Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies are quite versatile. Here are a few substitutions you might consider:
- Butter: If you're dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter or coconut oil.
- Eggs: For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding!
- Flour: For gluten-free blondies, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize the add-ins based on your preferences or dietary needs. Think dark chocolate chips, dried berries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a flavor twist!
How should I store leftover blondies?
To keep your Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies fresh, it’s best to store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious at room temperature for about five days. If it’s particularly hot, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture. Just remember to allow them to come back to room temperature before diving in!
What’s the best way to reheat blondies?
Warm them up slightly for a gooey treat! You can pop a blondie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Or, if you prefer, use an oven set to low heat (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will revive that scrumptious texture, making them just as delightful as when they first came out of the oven.
For more cooking tips, check out resources like the Food Network for additional insights and ideas!
Conclusion on Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies
Recap on the Joy of Baking and Enjoying Homemade Blondies
Baking is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s a delightful ritual that brings joy and warmth to our kitchens. Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies encapsulate this perfectly. With their butterscotch flavor, crispy edges, and chewy centers, they offer a comforting treat that’s simple yet satisfying. The process is incredibly easy, inviting bakers of all levels to get involved.
As you indulge in these blondies—perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee—you’re not just enjoying a dessert; you’re creating memories. So gather your ingredients, and let’s keep the joy of baking alive! For more inspiration, check out Smitten Kitchen's blog for additional delightful recipes.
Smitten Kitchen’s Blondies: The Best Indulgent Treat to Bake at Home
Equipment
- oven
- square baking pan
- mixing bowl
- saucepan
- wooden spoon
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 125 g unsalted butter 1 US stick
- 1 cup brown sugar light brown sugar also ok
- 1 large egg ~50g/2 oz
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour plain/all-purpose
- ¼ teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt halve for table salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup walnuts roughly chopped
Optional Topping
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan-forced). Grease a 20 cm/8' square pan with butter and line with baking paper (parchment paper).
- Spread the walnuts on a tray and roast for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool.
- Place the butter in a silver saucepan over medium high heat. Once melted, reduce to medium heat and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it smells nutty and has little golden specks.
- Add the sugar into the hot butter and mix using a wooden spoon. Let cool for 3 minutes, then add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Add the chocolate chips and walnuts, mixing through.
- Scrape into the prepared pan, smooth the surface, and bake for 25 minutes until edges are golden and surface is crackly.
- Rest in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting onto a cutting board. Cool for at least another 10 minutes, sprinkle with salt flakes if using.
- Cut into 16 squares or 9 giant squares, then enjoy!
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