Salted Caramel Blondies

Salted Caramel Blondies are a rich, buttery dessert bar that combines the chewy texture of a classic blondie with swirls of sweet, gooey caramel and a touch of sea salt. These decadent treats offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors and are an excellent choice for parties, bake sales, or indulgent evenings at home. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Buttery: The base blondie has a deep caramelized flavor.
• Sweet and Salty Perfection: Salted caramel adds contrast and complexity.
• Easy to Make: One bowl, no mixer needed, and minimal prep time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.
• Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins if desired.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, melted
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Flaky sea salt (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter.
7. Add the remaining batter and spread gently to cover the caramel layer.
8. Drizzle remaining caramel on top and use a knife or skewer to swirl.
9. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
11. Cool completely before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 squares
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Blondies: Stir in white, milk, or dark chocolate chips.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Espresso Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a coffee-infused flavor.
• Brown Butter Base: Brown the butter before mixing for a deeper, nutty taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: Warm briefly in the microwave for a soft, gooey texture. Serve with ice cream for an extra treat.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel works well, but ensure it’s thick enough to swirl into the batter.

How do I make homemade caramel?

You can make caramel with sugar, butter, and cream. Let it cool slightly before adding to the blondie batter.

What type of salt should I use for topping?

Use flaky sea salt like Maldon for the best texture and taste contrast.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. Adjust baking time to 35–40 minutes.

Why are my blondies dry?

Overbaking is the most common cause. Check for doneness with a toothpick—look for moist crumbs, not a clean stick.

Can I freeze these blondies?

Yes, wrap individually and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Are these blondies overly sweet?

The salt balances the sweetness, but you can reduce the sugar slightly if preferred.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit all work well in this recipe.

How do I cut them cleanly?

Cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat edges.

Are these safe to transport?

Yes, they travel well and stay firm, making them perfect for potlucks and gifting.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Blondies are an irresistible combination of rich, chewy blondie and luscious salted caramel. Easy to bake and universally loved, they’re the perfect choice when you need a sweet treat with a gourmet twist. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy one with a cup of coffee, these blondies are sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.

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