Indulge in rich brown butter bourbon pecan chocolate chunk blondies bursting with gooey chocolate and nutty flavors everyone will love. This decadent treat combines the deep, nutty aroma of toasted brown butter with the warm, spirited hint of bourbon, crunchy toasted pecans, and generous chunks of melty chocolate, resulting in a dessert that’s both irresistible and comfortingly familiar. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or craving a luscious everyday fix, these blondies deliver a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Complex Flavor Profile: Brown butter and bourbon add rich, layered notes that elevate simple blondies to gourmet status.
Texture Delight: Crisp edges meet a chewy center, studded with crunchy pecans and smooth chocolate chunks for an addictive bite.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients combine in a straightforward process suitable for bakers of all levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holiday gifts, potlucks, or just a cozy night in with a treat that feels special.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with mix-ins or substitutions to suit your taste and pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and texture. From the nuttiness of toasted brown butter to the sweet richness of chocolate chunks, this list is simple yet essential.

Brown Butter: Provides a deep, nutty flavor that forms the recipe’s base.
Bourbon: Adds warmth and complexity, enhancing the blondie’s richness without overpowering.
All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure to the blondies ensuring a tender yet firm bite.
Light Brown Sugar: Creates moisture and subtle caramel undertones.
Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with crisp edges.
Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor and sweetness.
Chopped Pecans: Toasted for a crunchy, buttery texture that perfectly complements the chocolate.
Chocolate Chunks: Use good-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for gooey pockets of flavor.
Baking Powder: Provides a slight lift without making the blondies cakey.
Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies all flavors.

Variations for Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to tailor to your preferences or dietary needs with just a few swaps or additions.

Nut Substitutions: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to change the nutty flavor and texture.
Booze Alternatives: Use maple syrup or vanilla extract instead of bourbon if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with a vegan alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chunks.
Added Spices: Incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder for a unique spice kick.
Chocolate Variations: Mix white chocolate or peanut butter chips with or instead of regular chocolate chunks.

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies Recipe

How to Make Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, swirling often until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning, then stir in bourbon to infuse that lovely warm flavor.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

While the butter cools slightly, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping in the batter.

Step 3: Combine Sugars and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, beat together light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until thick and slightly fluffy. This step adds air for a tender blondie crumb.

Step 4: Add Brown Butter Bourbon Mixture

Slowly pour the cooled brown butter bourbon mixture into the egg and sugar mixture while stirring continuously to combine smoothly without scrambling the eggs.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Mix-Ins

Gradually add the dry ingredients, folding gently just until incorporated. Then fold in the toasted pecans and chocolate chunks, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool before cutting.

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Don’t Rush Brown Butter: Watch closely and stir often to avoid burning for that perfect nutty aroma.
Toast Nuts First: Enhances their flavor and adds crunch that shines in every bite.
Use Quality Chocolate: Bigger chunks help create gooey pockets, elevating the indulgence factor.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients combine to keep blondies tender and moist.
Rest Before Serving: Cooling completely allows flavors to meld and texture to set ideally.

How to Serve Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar makes these blondies look stunning and enhances their flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries to add creaminess or a refreshing bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into small squares and serve on a rustic wooden board alongside coffee or dessert wine for a cozy, inviting display perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness for about a week.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm blondies gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to revive that fresh-baked softness.

FAQs

Can I omit the bourbon in the recipe?

Absolutely! You can leave it out or replace it with vanilla extract or maple syrup for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chunks are ideal as they balance the sweetness of the blondies well, but feel free to experiment with white or milk chocolate.

How do I make these blondies gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best texture results.

Can I use nuts other than pecans?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts are great substitutes and add their own unique crunch and flavor.

What’s the best way to cut blondies for serving?

Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat squares, and wait until the blondies have completely cooled to avoid crumbling.

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to impress any crowd. With their rich, nutty flavor, sweet chocolate pockets, and a hint of warm bourbon, these blondies are as comforting as they are indulgent. Give this recipe a try, and prepare for plenty of compliments and requests to bake them again!