White Chocolate Blondies are a delicious and indulgent twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie bar. These soft and chewy bars are filled with creamy white chocolate chunks, offering a rich and sweet flavor profile that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as an afternoon treat, white chocolate blondies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Their golden hue and decadent texture make them stand out as a favorite dessert for those who love white chocolate, as well as anyone seeking a sweet alternative to traditional brownies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, white chocolate blondies are a guaranteed hit with anyone who tries them.
The history of blondies can be traced back to the 19th century, and they are considered the “light” counterpart to traditional brownies. While the exact origin of the blondie is debated, it’s believed that the first blondie recipes appeared in the U.S. during the early 1900s. These bars were originally made with brown sugar, butter, and vanilla, giving them a sweet, butterscotch-like flavor. White chocolate blondies, specifically, are a more recent variation, with the creamy, sweet nature of white chocolate replacing traditional dark or milk chocolate. As white chocolate gained popularity in the late 20th century, bakers began incorporating it into many desserts, including the blondie. Today, white chocolate blondies are enjoyed worldwide and have become a popular alternative to their chocolate-filled counterparts.
The ingredients breakdown for white chocolate blondies includes several simple ingredients that combine to create a rich, flavorful treat. The base consists of all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and eggs, which provide the structure, sweetness, and moisture that make blondies so soft and chewy. White chocolate chunks or chips are the star of this recipe, adding both sweetness and creamy texture to each bite. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, while a pinch of salt balances out the sweetness. Some recipes may also include baking soda to help the bars rise, but the main focus is on creating a smooth, indulgent texture. The balance of these ingredients is key to achieving the perfect white chocolate blondie.
Step-by-Step Recipe for White Chocolate Blondies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, setting it aside.
- In a separate, larger bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Gently stir in the white chocolate chunks or chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Tips for the Perfect White Chocolate Blondies:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy texture when mixing it with the sugars.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added to prevent the blondies from becoming tough.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the white chocolate chunks in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the batter to bring out their richness.
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting into them; this will ensure they hold their shape and have a chewy texture.
- If you want to add some variety, try incorporating other ingredients like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of caramel for an extra touch of indulgence.
Variations and Customizations:
White chocolate blondies are highly customizable to suit different tastes. You can switch up the type of chocolate by using milk or dark chocolate chunks instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a nutty flavor, adding a handful of macadamia nuts, walnuts, or pecans can elevate the blondies with a bit of crunch and richness. For those who enjoy a fruity twist, dried cranberries or cherries can be mixed in for a pop of tartness that pairs well with the sweetness of the white chocolate. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut to complement the white chocolate flavor. Additionally, for those with dietary restrictions, there are options to make gluten-free blondies by using gluten-free flour or vegan blondies by substituting eggs and butter with plant-based alternatives. The versatility of white chocolate blondies allows for endless creative possibilities.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
While white chocolate blondies are undeniably delicious, they are also indulgent and high in sugar, butter, and calories. A typical serving of blondies can contain around 200-300 calories, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used. They are also rich in fats, particularly saturated fats from the butter and white chocolate, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. However, the recipe does offer some nutritional benefits, such as providing small amounts of protein from the eggs and some vitamins and minerals from the butter. If you are looking to make a healthier version of white chocolate blondies, you can experiment with reducing the sugar content or swapping out the butter for healthier fat alternatives like coconut oil. Additionally, using dark chocolate instead of white chocolate can offer a slightly lower sugar content and a boost of antioxidants. Ultimately, white chocolate blondies are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than an everyday indulgence.
FAQ:
- Can I freeze white chocolate blondies? Yes, you can freeze the blondies. After they have cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- How do I store white chocolate blondies? Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge.
- Can I use white chocolate chips instead of chunks? Yes, white chocolate chips work perfectly fine in this recipe and are a great substitute for white chocolate chunks.
- Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
White Chocolate Blondies
Ingredients
- ▢ 10 tablespoons 141 g unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ▢ 6 oz 170 g premium white chocolate bar, such as Ghirardelli or Lindt, chopped
- ▢ 1 ¼ cups 250 g granulated sugar
- ▢ 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk
- ▢ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ▢ 1 ¾ cups 220 g all-purpose flour
- ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
- ▢ ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ▢ 1 cup 170 g white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chopped white chocolate pieces. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring between each, until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk until the mixture turns pale yellow (about 30 seconds). You can also use an electric mixer on high speed for about 15 seconds.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet chocolate mixture until completely combined.
- Use a spatula to fold in the white chocolate chips, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Transfer the pan to the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
- Allow the blondies to cool before slicing and serving. If you prefer a gooey center, you can slice them right away, but if you want firmer bars, wait for them to cool completely.
Notes
If needed, you can substitute white chocolate chips (1 cup) for the chopped chocolate, but I’ve found that using a high-quality chocolate bar yields the best results. For the extra white chocolate at the end, you can also replace the white chocolate chips with another 6 oz of chopped chocolate if preferred. Baking Notes
I recommend using a metal pan for baking, as a glass pan can result in longer baking times (sometimes significantly longer). Storing
Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Has This Recipe Changed?
Yes, in 2016 I published the original recipe, which received mixed reviews. Some people had success, while others did not. I strive to share recipes that people can consistently make with great results, so I’ve tweaked and perfected the recipe and now recommend the version published here. However, if you’re interested, here is my original white chocolate brownie recipe. Please note that I am no longer accepting comments on that recipe.