Introduction
If you’re a fan of sweet, gooey desserts and love the idea of combining your favorite candy bars into a delightful treat, then look no further. Candy Bar Blondies are the perfect fusion of rich blondie batter and decadent candy chunks, creating a heavenly dessert that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a bake sale, or simply craving something sweet, these blondies are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delicious treats, provide you with useful tips, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s dive into the world of indulgent desserts with our Candy Bar Blondies recipe!
Ingredients
Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering blondies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup mixed candy bars, chopped (consider using favorites like Snickers and Milky Way)
Instructions
Creating these delightful blondies is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can tackle with ease. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the blondies don’t stick.
- Combine Sugars and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack the eggs into the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until just blended, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Candy Bars: Gently fold the chopped candy bars into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The blondies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will help them set and make slicing easier.
Nutrition Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of your treats is essential for making informed choices. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving (serving size: 1 square):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
How to Serve Candy Bar Blondies
Candy Bar Blondies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to elevate your dessert experience in multiple ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, there are several creative serving options to consider. Here’s a comprehensive guide to serving Candy Bar Blondies that will enhance their flavors and presentation:
Classic Cut
For those who appreciate simplicity, serving Candy Bar Blondies in their classic form is a great option. Cut the blondies into uniform squares or rectangles, allowing guests to easily pick them up and enjoy. This no-fuss approach highlights the rich, buttery flavor of the blondies and showcases the delightful chunks of candy within. Consider using a sharp knife to achieve clean edges, and arrange the squares on a decorative platter or cake stand for an appealing presentation. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
A la Mode
Taking your Candy Bar Blondies to the next level is as simple as adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, chewy blondies, creating a delightful combination of textures. For an extra touch, consider using flavored ice creams, such as salted caramel, chocolate, or even a rich coffee flavor, to complement the sweetness of the blondies. Serve the blondie warm, topped with the ice cream, and drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce to create a decadent dessert experience that is sure to impress.
Drizzled
Elevate the visual appeal and flavor profile of your Candy Bar Blondies by drizzling them with sauces. A warm caramel drizzle adds a luscious sweetness, while a rich chocolate sauce can enhance the chocolate notes of the candies embedded in the blondies. To create a beautiful presentation, use a squeeze bottle or a spoon to create artistic patterns over the top of the blondies. For an added layer of flavor, consider infusing the sauces with sea salt or espresso for a sophisticated twist. This not only enhances the taste but also makes for a stunning visual that will leave guests wanting more.
Topped with Whipped Cream
For a more refined presentation, elevate your Candy Bar Blondies by topping them with freshly whipped cream. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a lightness that cuts through the richness of the blondies. To add visual flair and texture, sprinkle chopped nuts—such as pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts—over the whipped cream. Not only does this add a crunchy element, but it also enhances the flavor profile by introducing nutty notes that pair beautifully with the blondies. For an additional touch, consider adding a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth and complexity.
Accompaniments
To further enhance your serving experience, consider offering a selection of accompaniments alongside your Candy Bar Blondies. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas, can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, dense blondies. A side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping allows guests to customize their dessert experience. Additionally, pairing the blondies with a cup of coffee, tea, or a dessert wine can create a well-rounded dessert experience that caters to a variety of tastes.
Presentation and Garnishing
Lastly, how you present your Candy Bar Blondies can make a significant difference in the overall experience. Using colorful plates or decorative trays can elevate the appearance of your dessert table. Consider garnishing the blondies with mint leaves or edible flowers for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. You could also serve them on individual dessert plates for a more formal gathering, allowing guests to enjoy their own slice of indulgence.
By exploring these diverse serving options, you can transform your Candy Bar Blondies into an unforgettable dessert experience that delights both the palate and the eye. Whether you choose to keep it simple or go all out with toppings and accompaniments, these blondies are sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Additional Tips for Perfect Candy Bar Blondies
To ensure your Candy Bar Blondies turn out perfectly every time, consider incorporating the following detailed tips into your baking process:
Chill the Candy Bars
Before you begin chopping your candy bars, it’s highly beneficial to place them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. Chilling the bars helps to firm them up, which makes them significantly easier to cut into neat pieces. When candy bars are at room temperature, they can be soft and sticky, leading to uneven chunks that melt into the batter. By chilling them, you not only maintain their shape during the chopping process but also minimize the risk of them losing their structure while baking, resulting in a more appealing texture and presentation in your blondies.
Experiment with Candy
One of the best aspects of making Candy Bar Blondies is the freedom to customize them with your favorite confections. Don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with a variety of candy bars! For instance, using Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups can add a deliciously rich peanut butter flavor, while Snickers bars introduce a delightful mix of chocolate, caramel, and nuts. Twix bars can offer a satisfying crunch with their biscuit base and creamy caramel. You could also try adding M&M’s for a colorful twist or even seasonal candies like Halloween-themed Reese’s or peppermint bark around the holidays. The combinations are nearly endless; feel free to mix and match to find your perfect blend. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors and textures to ensure a harmonious final product.
Line Your Pan
To make the baking and cleanup process as smooth as possible, always line your baking pan with parchment paper. This simple step not only prevents the blondies from sticking but also allows for easy removal once they’ve cooled. When lining your pan, leave a bit of overhang on the sides of the parchment paper, which acts as a convenient “handle” for lifting the entire batch out of the pan. This technique minimizes the risk of breaking the blondies when you attempt to cut them and makes it easier to transfer them to a cutting board for slicing. Additionally, this method helps with cleaning, as you won’t need to scrub the pan afterward.
Precise Measuring and Mixing
For the best results, ensure that you measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small deviations can affect the texture and flavor of your blondies. Use a kitchen scale for precision if possible, especially for the flour and sugar. When mixing, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies due to the development of gluten. Instead, mix until just combined, allowing for a few streaks of flour to remain. This will help keep your blondies soft and chewy.
Storage
Proper storage is key to keeping your Candy Bar Blondies fresh and delicious. After they have completely cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This will help maintain their moistness and flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a blondie, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it briefly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
By following these additional tips, you can ensure that your Candy Bar Blondies are consistently delicious, with the perfect texture and flavor. Happy baking!
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter. Just be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Q: Can I substitute the flour for a gluten-free alternative?
A: Absolutely! A 1:1 gluten-free baking flour should work well as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
Q: How do I know when my blondies are done?
A: The blondies are done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean. A few crumbs sticking to the toothpick is okay, as they will continue to set as they cool.
Q: Can I add nuts to the recipe?
A: Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be a great addition for some extra crunch.
Conclusion
Candy Bar Blondies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the rich buttery flavor of blondies with the irresistible allure of your favorite candy bars. The result is a chewy, decadent dessert that’s full of texture and flavor, with every bite offering a delightful surprise from the candy chunks. Whether you’re using classic candy bars like Snickers, Kit Kat, or Reese’s, or mixing in a variety of options, these blondies will surely satisfy any sweet tooth.
They’re perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, birthday celebration, or just a cozy treat at home. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time. The best part? They’re a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike, making them a go-to dessert when you want something everyone will love.
By following this simple recipe, you can create a batch of blondies that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The chewy, golden base pairs perfectly with the gooey candy pieces, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these scrumptious blondies today! They’re bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
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Candy Bar Blondies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup mixed candy bars, chopped (consider using favorites like Snickers and Milky Way)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the blondies don’t stick.
- Combine Sugars and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack the eggs into the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until just blended, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Candy Bars: Gently fold the chopped candy bars into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Pour and Spread: Pour the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The blondies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will help them set and make slicing easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 2g