If you love the classic combination of sweet and salty, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these Salted Caramel Blondies! They’re soft, chewy, and packed with rich caramel flavor, with just the right touch of sea salt to make every bite absolutely irresistible. These blondies are easy to whip up and make the perfect treat for any occasion – from holiday gatherings to casual weeknight desserts.
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Why You’ll Love These Salted Caramel Blondies
- Rich Caramel Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and caramel sauce gives these blondies a deep, rich caramel taste that’s simply divine.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: With a perfect balance of gooey and chewy, these blondies practically melt in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need any fancy equipment – just a bowl, a spoon, and your favorite baking pan.
- Sweet and Salty Perfection: A sprinkle of sea salt on top takes these blondies to the next level, enhancing the sweetness and adding a delicious contrast.
What Do Salted Caramel Blondies Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a bar that’s rich, buttery, and packed with caramel flavor, with a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of sea salt. They have the texture of a fudgy brownie but with the sweet, molasses-y depth of a blondie, complemented by gooey pockets of caramel throughout. It’s the ultimate indulgence!
Health Benefits of Salted Caramel Blondies
- Mood-Boosting: The combination of sugar and fat in these blondies is known to trigger the release of serotonin, giving you that feel-good moment with every bite!
- Energy Boost: These blondies provide a quick source of energy, thanks to the carbs and sugars.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Blondies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Salted Caramel Topping
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (warmed)
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (like Maldon or fleur de sel)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Butter: Use margarine or dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
- Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: Make your own caramel sauce or use store-bought. You can also use dulce de leche for a thicker caramel layer.
- Additions: Mix in white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or toffee bits for extra texture and flavor.
How to Make Salted Caramel Blondies: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the blondies out later.
Step 2: Make the Blondie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Add the Caramel Sauce
- Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the batter, then swirl it gently with a knife or toothpick.
- Top with the remaining blondie batter, carefully spreading it over the caramel layer.
Step 4: Bake the Blondies
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter). The blondies will continue to set as they cool.
Step 5: Add the Salted Caramel Topping
- Remove the blondies from the oven and immediately drizzle the warmed caramel sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while the caramel is still warm. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Blondies
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of creaminess.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The perfect pairing to balance the sweetness of the blondies.
Tips for the Best Salted Caramel Blondies
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in tough blondies, so stir until just combined.
- Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Let Them Cool: Allow the blondies to cool completely before cutting – this helps them set and makes slicing easier.
Storing and Freezing
- Room Temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make these up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.
How do I make homemade caramel sauce?
To make caramel sauce from scratch, melt 1 cup of granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add 6 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and a pinch of salt, stirring until smooth.
Nutritional Information (Per Blondie)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 27g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 190mg
In Conclusion
These Salted Caramel Blondies are the ultimate indulgence, blending sweet caramel with a touch of sea salt for a treat that’s sure to satisfy any craving. They’re simple to make but taste like a gourmet dessert, making them perfect for special occasions or anytime you need a little sweetness in your life.
More Dessert Recipes You’ll Love:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Fudgy Brownies with Sea Salt
- Butterscotch Blondies
Don’t forget to leave a review and share your Salted Caramel Blondies on Pinterest – I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Happy baking! 🍬🍫
