Some desserts just have that “wow” factor, and these Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies are one of them. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy blondie with deep caramel notes, crunchy toasted pecans, and just the right hint of warm bourbon. The magic of browned butter gives these blondies an irresistible richness, making them dangerously delicious. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a gathering, these blondies are a guaranteed hit.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies
Rich and Buttery: The browned butter adds a nutty, toasty depth that takes these blondies to another level.
Bourbon-Infused Goodness: Just a splash of bourbon brings out warm caramel flavors without overpowering the blondies.
Crunchy Pecans: The perfect balance of chewy and crunchy, thanks to toasted pecans folded into the batter.
Easy to Make: No mixer required—just a few simple ingredients and a whisk.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These blondies make a great dessert for holidays, parties, or a sweet treat just because.
Ingredients in Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies
Let’s break down the key ingredients that make these blondies so irresistible:
Butter: Browning the butter gives these blondies an extra layer of rich, nutty flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and keeps the blondies chewy.
Eggs: Help bind everything together and create a soft, rich texture.
Bourbon: A touch of bourbon enhances the flavors without being overpowering.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
Flour: The base that gives the blondies their structure while keeping them tender.
Baking Powder: Adds just the right amount of lift for a perfect chewy texture.
Salt: A little salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and a delicious nuttiness.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Brown the Butter: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, bourbon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
Stir Everything Together: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.
Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Cool and Slice: Let the blondies cool completely before slicing into squares.
Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee!
How to Serve Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies
These blondies are amazing on their own, but here are a few ways to take them up a notch:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream makes them even more indulgent.
- Drizzled with Caramel: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
- Topped with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon? Yes, please!
- Paired with Coffee or Bourbon: A cup of coffee or a glass of bourbon pairs beautifully with these blondies.
Additional Tips
- Make Them Nut-Free: Skip the pecans if you prefer a smooth texture.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Instructions: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Double the Recipe: These blondies disappear fast—make a double batch if you’re serving a crowd!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these without bourbon?
A1: Yes! You can leave it out or replace it with vanilla extract for a similar depth of flavor.
Q2: Can I use a different type of nut?
A2: Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work well, too.
Q3: How do I know when they’re done baking?
A3: The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Q4: Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
A4: Brown sugar is key for the chewy texture, but you can do a half-and-half mix if needed.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A5: Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.
Q6: Can I add chocolate chips?
A6: Yes! A handful of dark or white chocolate chips would be a delicious addition.
Q7: Can I use store-bought toasted pecans?
A7: Yes, but toasting them yourself enhances their flavor even more.
Q8: Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
A8: No chilling is required—just mix, pour, and bake!
Q9: Can I make these gluten-free?
A9: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for the best results.
Q10: Can I use this batter for cookies instead?
A10: While the texture is best suited for blondies, you could try scooping and baking as cookies!
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies are everything you want in a dessert—chewy, buttery, nutty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they disappear in record time!
Print
Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 pan (8×8)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Blondies are rich, chewy, and packed with gooey chocolate chunks and toasted pecans. The brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor, while the bourbon gives a subtle warmth without overpowering the dessert. Perfect for holiday parties, indulgent desserts, and easy baking recipes, this blondie recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
-
4 ounces unsalted butter, melted until browned
-
1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
-
2 1/2 tablespoons bourbon
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1/4 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
-
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped into chunks
-
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick spray. Set aside.
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until browned, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
-
Transfer the browned butter to a large heatproof mixing bowl. Whisk in the brown sugar until well combined.
-
Stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract. Add the egg and egg yolk, whisking until fully incorporated.
-
Using a rubber spatula, fold in the flour, cinnamon, and salt until just combined. Then, gently fold in the toasted pecans and chocolate chunks.
-
Scrape the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
-
Bake for 24 minutes, or until the edges are golden and firm while the center remains slightly soft.
-
Let the blondies cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving, if desired.
Notes
-
Browning the butter enhances the flavor—watch closely to prevent burning.
-
The bourbon flavor is subtle but can be omitted if preferred.
-
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg