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Irresistibly Chewy Pecan Bourbon Blondies: A Southern-Inspired Delight

Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary dessert experience with these Pecan Bourbon Blondies. Imagine a square of golden perfection, boasting a delightfully chewy and buttery texture, infused with the distinct, sweet, and subtly smoky warmth of bourbon, complemented by the nutty crunch of pecans. These aren’t just blondies; they’re a celebration of classic Southern flavors, elevated to an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

There’s something inherently comforting and deeply satisfying about a well-made blondie. Often overshadowed by their chocolaty cousins, the brownies, blondies hold a unique charm, offering a symphony of butterscotch and vanilla notes. But these aren’t just any blondies. We’re taking things up a notch, infusing them with the rich, complex character of bourbon and the earthy sweetness of toasted pecans. It’s a combination that speaks to the soul, particularly for anyone with a fondness for the culinary traditions of the American South.

Why Pecan Bourbon Blondies Will Become Your New Favorite

My culinary journey often leads me down paths paved with Southern charm, and I confess a deep affection for its rich, soulful cuisine. From the vibrant tang of fried green tomatoes to the hearty comfort of shrimp and grits, and the decadent layers of hummingbird cake, I find myself drawn to its distinctive flavors. And when it comes to classic pairings, pecans and bourbon are truly a match made in heaven. This recipe captures that timeless Southern spirit in every single bite.

While my love for chocolate is undeniable, I find myself reaching for a blondie over a brownie almost every time. There’s a particular magic in their golden hue and the pure, unadulterated flavor of brown sugar and butter. These particular blondies are a masterclass in texture: soft and incredibly buttery on the inside, yet with a delicate crispness around the edges that adds an exquisite contrast. They are generously studded with pecans, which I make sure to toast beforehand. This crucial step intensifies their natural nuttiness, adding depth and a delightful aroma that permeates the entire dessert. And then, there’s the bourbon – its sweet, warm, and slightly smoky profile introduces an exciting kick that truly sets these blondies apart. It’s a sophisticated twist on a beloved classic, making each bite an absolute treat!

The Art of Simplicity: Quick and Easy Baking

One of the many joys of these Pecan Bourbon Blondies is their straightforward preparation. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to achieve perfect results. With just about 15 minutes of active preparation time and a mere 25-30 minutes in the oven, you can whip up a batch of these glorious bars in under an hour. Requiring fewer than ten common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for impromptu baking sessions or when you need a show-stopping dessert without the fuss. And the best part? They store beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days, maintaining their delightful chewiness and flavor. This makes them ideal for meal prepping desserts, enjoying as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or even as a decadent little breakfast indulgence alongside your morning coffee or tea. This fall, treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these unforgettable blondies. They truly are a taste of bliss!

Secrets to Perfect Pecan Bourbon Blondies: Expert Tips

Achieving bakery-quality blondies at home is simpler than you think, especially with a few insider tips. These expert notes will guide you to ensure your Pecan Bourbon Blondies turn out absolutely perfect every time, delivering that coveted chewy texture and rich flavor.

Toasting Your Pecans is Key: Don’t skip this step! Spreading your chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toasting them in the oven for 7-8 minutes before adding them to the batter makes a world of difference. Toasting enhances their natural oils and brings out a deeper, more intense nutty flavor, adding an incredible aromatic depth to your blondies. It’s a small effort for a significant flavor boost.
The Perfect Doneness Test: Knowing when your blondies are perfectly baked is crucial for that ideal chewy texture. Bake them until a wooden pick (like a toothpick) inserted into the center of the pan comes out with a few moist crumbs still clinging to it. This indicates they are just set but not overbaked, which is key to keeping them soft and moist rather than dry and crumbly. Overbaking is the enemy of a chewy blondie!
Cooling for Optimal Texture: Patience is a virtue when it comes to baking, especially with blondies. Allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. This cooling time allows the blondies to set properly, firming up to that perfect chewy consistency and making them much easier to slice cleanly.
Serving Suggestions for an Elevated Experience: While these Pecan Bourbon Blondies are absolutely divine on their own, consider elevating them further. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to their richness. For a truly decadent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the ice cream to gently melt into the warm blondie, creating an unforgettable dessert experience. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt could also add an extra layer of gourmet appeal.
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate more evenly into the batter, leading to a smoother, more uniform texture in the final product. If you forget to take them out ahead of time, simply place them in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix until just combined. Overmixing the flour can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tougher blondies. A gentle hand will yield a tender, chewy crumb.

A Deeper Dive into Flavor: The Magic of Bourbon and Pecans

The star ingredients in these blondies, pecans and bourbon, bring more than just flavor; they bring character and a story. Bourbon, with its origins rooted deep in American history and tradition, offers a unique profile of vanilla, caramel, and oak, often with hints of spice or smoke. When baked into these blondies, the alcohol largely evaporates, leaving behind a concentrated essence of its rich, warming notes that perfectly complement the sweet brown sugar. It adds a sophisticated layer that distinguishes these blondies from any other. Pecans, a native North American nut, contribute a distinct buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch. Their natural sweetness is amplified when toasted, creating a harmonious balance with the bourbon’s boldness.

This dessert is more than just a sweet treat; it’s an invitation to savor the moments, whether it’s a quiet evening at home, a festive gathering with friends, or a cozy autumn afternoon. The aroma alone as these blondies bake will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation, promising a delicious reward.

Pecan Bourbon Blondies

Author: MaryAnn Dwyer

Servings: 12 bars

These Pecan Bourbon Blondies are chewy and buttery with a deliciously sweet and smokey bourbon kick!

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 45 mins

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Ingredients

1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
2 cups light brown sugar, firmly packed
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1/4 cup bourbon
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spread the chopped pecans on a large baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 7-8 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
Line a large 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the melted butter, mixing until just combined. Stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract. Follow by adding the eggs, one at a time, ensuring you mix well after each addition until fully incorporated. Gently stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in one cup of the toasted pecans.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining toasted pecans over the top of the batter.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Do not overbake, as this will lead to dry blondies.
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, use the excess parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Cut into 12 squares or bars. Blondies will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Nutrition

Keyword: blondies, dessert, bourbon, pecans

Cuisine: Southern

Course: Dessert

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This recipe has been lovingly adapted from an inspiring creation found in Bake From Scratch Magazine – The Tropical Issue, May/June 2019, bringing a timeless classic with a spirited twist to your kitchen.