Name: Decadent Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 99 min
Ingredients: 1 stick Unsalted Butter (Browned to enhance nuttiness.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Firmly packed for accurate measurement.); 1/4 cup Bourbon (Can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure for the best results.); 1 large Eggs (Use room temperature for better mixing.); 1 large Egg Yolk (Binds ingredients and adds moisture.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Consider gluten-free for an alternative.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Can be omitted if desired.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Flaky sea salt on top enhances taste.); 1 cup Toasted Pecans (Optional: can substitute walnuts or omit.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Can be substituted with dark or milk chocolate.)

As I was spoiling myself with a peaceful afternoon of baking, the warm scent of brown butter wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy gatherings and joyous laughter. That’s the magic behind these Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies—a delightful twist on a classic dessert that’s not only easy to whip up but also perfect for bringing people together during the holiday season. With their rich, chewy texture and unexpected hint of bourbon, these blondies add a boozy flair to your traditional baking repertoire. Plus, they keep incredibly well, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for your next festive party. Are you ready to bring your dessert game to the next level? Scroll down to find out how!

What makes these blondies irresistible?

Decadent flavors come alive in every bite, thanks to the nutty brown butter and rich chocolate chunks. Crowd-Pleaser appeal ensures these blondies are a hit at gatherings or cozy nights in—who can resist that gooey goodness? Quick and Easy to prepare, even novice bakers will shine with this simple recipe. Versatile enough for various occasions, swap pecans for walnuts, or go nut-free entirely! Plus, they stay fresh for a week, making them perfect for make-ahead holiday treats. Dive into this fantastic recipe, and you’ll never look at blondies the same way again!

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

For the Blondie Batter

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; brown to enhance nuttiness. Note: For a different flavor, try using salted butter but reduce added salt.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; ensure it is firmly packed for accurate measurement.
Bourbon – Adds a subtle kick; can be omitted for non-alcoholic version, or substitute with vanilla extract for a milder flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla for best results.
Eggs (1 large + 1 yolk) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; using room temperature eggs helps in better mixing.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the blondies; for a gluten-free option, consider a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and depth of flavor; can be omitted if desired.
Salt – Balances sweetness; the addition of flaky sea salt on top enhances taste.
Toasted Pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness; can substitute with walnuts or omit for nut-free version.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Adds sweetness and richness; dark chocolate or milk chocolate can be used as a substitute.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray to ensure the blondies release effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Brown the Butter
Next, place your unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally until it turns a deep golden brown, which should take about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell a nutty aroma, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once browned, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, bourbon, and vanilla extract with the cooled brown butter. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, about 1-2 minutes. The warmth from the butter will help dissolve the sugar, creating a glossy base for your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Add in one large egg and one egg yolk to your mixture. Using your whisk, mix just until the eggs are fully combined and the batter is uniform. This will help to bind everything together and add moisture to your blondies. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to denser blondies.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix only until the flour is just incorporated; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing at this stage could toughen your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies, so be careful.

Step 6: Add Nuts and Chocolate
Now, it’s time to fold in the toasted pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chunks. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter, which should now look thick and luscious. These add delightful texture and rich flavor, making your blondies truly indulgent.

Step 7: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 24 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown, and the center still looks slightly wobbly. This ensures a chewy texture in your blondies.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. This will help them set properly and makes cutting easier. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving, enhancing the sweet and salty flavors of your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies.

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and add your own twist to these delightful blondies!

Nut-Free: Omit the toasted pecans entirely for a nut-free version that still delights with rich flavors.
Walnuts Instead: Replace pecans with chopped walnuts for a different nutty texture that enhances the richness.
Maple Bourbon: Swap bourbon with pure maple syrup for a sweeter, less intoxicating flavor that kids will love.
Holiday Spice: Incorporate festive spices like nutmeg or cloves to give your blondies a cozy seasonal twist.
Chocolate Mix: Use a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate for added richness and a more intense chocolate experience.
White Chocolate Bliss: For a sweet contrast, substitute semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate chunks, creating a creamy, dreamy treat.
Layered Dessert: Transform these blondies by serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of Lemon Garlic Butter for a vibrant flavor combo!
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce through the batter before baking for extra gooeyness and a caramel twist in every bite!

Try one or mix a few of these suggestions to create your perfect batch of blondies! Consider serving with a slice of Texas Roadhouse Butter for an extra comforting treat!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Room Temperature: Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last up to 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze the blondies for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: To enjoy your blondies warm, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Brown Butter Care: Ensure the butter is browned but not burnt; watch closely as it changes from golden to dark quickly for the best flavor.
Cooling Tip: Cool the blondies completely in the pan for at least one hour. This helps to ensure clean cuts and retains their chewy texture.
Mix with Care: After adding the flour, fold gently to avoid overmixing. This keeps your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies soft and tender.
Use Room Temperature Eggs: For a smoother batter, make sure to use room temperature eggs when mixing. This promotes better incorporation of ingredients.
Storage Suggestions: Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies are a dream for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply make the batter and transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent any browning. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan and bake as directed for that warm, gooey goodness. Additionally, the finished blondies can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 week in an airtight container, ensuring they remain just as delicious as the day you made them. This thoughtful prep allows busy home cooks to enjoy their baking creations whenever they want!

What to Serve with Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Warm and inviting, these blondies beckon for delightful pairings that elevate your dessert experience to glorious heights.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla provides a luscious contrast, melting perfectly into the warm blondies.
Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee enhance the bourbon undertones, creating a cozy, café-style dessert moment.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzled on top, this adds a sweet and salty depth that complements the pecans and chocolate beautifully.
Whipped Cream with Cinnamon: Light and airy, this topping adds a touch of spice, making each bite delightfully festive.
Pecan Pie Milkshake: Blend your favorite ice cream with pecan pie flavors for a fun, boozy twist that mirrors the blondies’ flavors.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chai or peppermint tea offers a refreshing contrast and lightens the richness of the blondies.
Dark Chocolate Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce intensifies the dessert’s decadence and appeal.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: As a seasonal treat, this beverage provides a spiced sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with your blondies.

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies Recipe FAQs

What type of bourbon should I use for the blondies?
You can opt for your favorite bourbon, but I recommend using a smooth and balanced variety for the best flavor. Look for something not too overpowering; a mid-range bourbon works beautifully, adding just the right amount of warmth to your blondies.

How can I tell when the pecans are toasted?
Toasted pecans should have a golden brown color and a fragrant, nutty aroma. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly!

How do I store my blondies after baking?
Store your Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying—they’re so much better warm!

Can I freeze the blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze your blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just transfer them to the fridge overnight or warm them directly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

What should I do if my blondies turn out too dense?
If your blondies end up denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour. For future batches, be sure to gently fold in the ingredients instead of vigorous mixing. This helps keep the texture light and chewy, so don’t worry too much—there’s always next time!

Are these blondies safe for pets or allergies?
These blondies contain ingredients like sugars and chocolate, which are not suitable for pets. Always ensure your furry friends don’t sneak any! Additionally, if you have nut allergies, you can easily modify this recipe by omitting the pecans or substituting them with seeds like sunflower seeds for safe snacking.