The moment the heavenly aroma of fresh espresso wafts through my kitchen, it’s as if I’ve been transported to my favorite coffee shop, but in the comfort of my own home. If you’re like me and find yourself craving a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of a brownie with the sweetness of blondies, then let me introduce you to my Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies. These little treats are not just delectable; they are a game changer for any get-together or cozy evening at home.
Baked to perfection, each bite offers a satisfying chew that’s complemented by chunks of dark chocolate, all elevated by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. They’re quick to whip up, making them the perfect answer to a sudden sweet tooth or an impromptu gathering. So, put away the fast food and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dessert bursting with flavor and warmth. Trust me, these blondies will quickly become a favorite addition to your baking repertoire!
Why are Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies irresistible?
Fudgy Delight: The unique blend of fudgy texture and chewy bits makes each bite simply divine.
Coffee Kick: Enhanced with rich espresso powder, they bring a delightful coffee flavor to your dessert table.
Quick Prep: You’ll love how easy and fast these blondies are to whip up, perfect for busy days.
Crowd Pleaser: They appeal to both coffee lovers and sweet enthusiasts, making them ideal for any gathering.
Versatile Treat: Whether enjoyed plain or topped with ice cream, these blondies adapt seamlessly to any occasion.
Flaky Finish: A sprinkle of sea salt elevates the flavor, creating a perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondie Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Provides fat for moisture and richness; make sure to melt it beforehand for a smooth mix.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and deep caramel flavor; substituting with light brown sugar alters the taste slightly.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for high-quality extracts for the best results.
- Large Eggs – Contributes to the structure and moisture of the blondies; always use room temperature eggs for even mixing.
- Espresso Powder – Infuses a bold coffee flavor; omit it if you’re looking for a more traditional blondie experience.
- Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the other flavors beautifully.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, creating the tender crumb texture we all adore.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the blondies; be sure to measure accurately for the ideal consistency.
- Dark Chocolate – Offers rich chocolate flavor; select high-quality chocolate and consider reserving some for topping your blondies.
These Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies are not just any dessert; they are an experience bursting with flavors and textures that will leave you craving more!
How to Make Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang, which will help you lift the blondies out easily later.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, eggs, espresso powder, and salt. Mix until the mixture is smooth and glossy – this should only take a few moments!
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Gently mix in the baking soda, then fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the blondies! Add the dark chocolate chunks, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Prepare the Pan: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. If you’d like, add some extra dark chocolate chunks on top for that melty finish!
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Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden brown and slightly puffed, with edges that are deeper brown. They’ll deflate a little as they cool; that’s normal!
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Finish with Salt: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt to bring out all those wonderful flavors. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but will remain delicious for this short period.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, store the blondies in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. Just remember that refrigeration might slightly alter their fudgy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors at a later date.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheating for a few seconds in the microwave or oven will bring back that gooey texture. Just be careful not to overheat; you want them warm, not hot!
Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Variations
Feel free to personalize these blondies and make them uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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No Coffee: Omit the espresso powder for a classic blondie flavor, allowing the brown sugar to shine.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunchy contrast to the chewy blondies. They bring a lovely texture and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
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Milk Chocolate Magic: Switch dark chocolate chunks for creamy milk chocolate for a sweeter, more indulgent treat. The milky flavor will deepen the overall sweetness and create a wonderfully gooey center.
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White Chocolate Bliss: Incorporate white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter, brighter flavor. It creates a delightful contrast with the depth of the espresso!
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising kick that brings out the coffee flavor. It’s a bold twist that truly awakens the taste buds!
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Coconut Surprise: Stir in toasted shredded coconut for a tropical flair. The coconut pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and gives the blondies a touch of chewiness.
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Easily Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use flax eggs for a plant-based option, making these blondies accessible without sacrificing flavor.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra layer of indulgence. The sweet, gooey caramel perfectly enhances the blondies’ rich profile.
What to Serve with Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies?
Indulging in these adorable blondies is only part of the journey; let’s create a memorable meal that truly delights the senses.
- Fresh Berries: Sweet strawberries or tart raspberries add a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the blondies beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm blondies, creating a luscious combination—pure bliss in every bite!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream provides a light, airy contrast to the dense blondies, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them.
- Coffee or Espresso: Pair your blondies with a strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso, amplifying the delightful coffee tones while keeping that caffeinated buzz alive.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling over the blondies adds a sweet and salty element that makes each bite feel indulgently luxurious. The rich, buttery flavors meld perfectly with the blondies’ texture.
- Chocolate Ganache: For the chocolate lovers, a rich ganache poured on top amplifies the chocolate notes in the blondies, turning them into an elegant dessert worthy of any celebration.
- Roasted Nuts: Add a crunch factor with roasted nuts like almonds or pecans, which contrast the soft texture and enhance the flavor profile with a hint of saltiness.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea can provide a warm finish, allowing the deeper flavors of the blondies to shine through without distraction.
- Mocha Smoothie: Blend up a delightful smoothie with coffee, banana, and a splash of chocolate for a fun, dessert-like drink that complements the blondies perfectly.
Expert Tips for Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies
- Cool Completely: Allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan for clean slicing. Chilling them helps achieve perfect edges without crumbling.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps the batter come together smoothly for fudgy results.
- Hang Your Parchment: Leave an overhang of parchment paper in the pan to easily lift out the blondies once they’re cool, avoiding a sticky situation!
- Avoid Overmixing: Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour; this can lead to tough blondies instead of the desired chewy texture.
- Extra Chocolate Delight: Reserve a few chocolate chunks for topping before baking. It enhances both the appearance and flavor of your Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies are ideal for busy cooks looking to streamline their dessert game! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can bake and cut them, then store the individual squares in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To maintain their chewy texture, avoid layering them directly on top of each other, or place parchment paper between layers. When ready to enjoy, simply warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds, and they’ll be just as delicious as the day they were made!
Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right espresso powder?
Absolutely! When choosing espresso powder, look for a finely ground product that is labeled as “espresso” or “coffee powder,” which indicates a rich flavor. A quality brand will have a strong aroma, and you should avoid those with artificial additives. For the best results, buy from reputable suppliers or specialty coffee shops.
How long can I store these blondies?
You can store your Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but if you can’t finish them right away, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just remember, refrigeration might alter their fudgy texture slightly, making them a tad denser.
Can I freeze the blondies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your blondies for future enjoyment! First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air is trapped, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven until warmed through.
What if my blondies are too dry?
Don’t worry; if your blondies turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or using too much flour. For next time, be sure to measure your flour accurately and use an oven thermometer to check the exact baking temperature. If you encounter a dry batch, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to help moisten each bite!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! Since this recipe includes eggs and dairy, it’s important to consider allergies when serving. For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Omit the espresso powder for individuals sensitive to caffeine, and ensure to check that the dark chocolate is dairy-free if serving to strict vegans.
Irresistible Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, eggs, espresso powder, and salt until smooth.
- Gently mix in the baking soda and fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Add the dark chocolate chunks and distribute evenly.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and optionally add extra dark chocolate chunks on top.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and slightly puffed. Let cool before slicing.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt after baking and allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.