When you’re in need of a sweet treat that balances rich flavors with a chewy texture, Fosters Market Blondies are the answer. These delightful treats are a twist on the classic brownie, featuring buttery brown sugar and a medley of chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips. They have become a favorite among dessert lovers, perfect for any occasion—from a cozy afternoon snack to a festive gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to bring smiles all around!
Why It Works Every Time
Fosters Market Blondies are truly a marvel in baking. The key to their success lies in the combination of ingredients and the method of preparation. The use of brown sugar gives these blondies their signature fudgy texture and depth of flavor, while the combination of chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips provides a delightful burst of sweetness in every bite. The addition of pecans adds a lovely crunch, creating a balance of textures that makes these blondies irresistible. The careful mixing and baking ensure that they come out perfectly chewy and rich every single time.
What You’ll Gather
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
Recommended Tools
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing your ingredients together.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the dry ingredients and incorporating air into the batter.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in the chips and nuts without overmixing.
- Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch pan works best for this recipe.
- Parchment Paper: To line your baking pan for easy removal of the blondies.
The Method for Fosters Market Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help lift the blondies out later.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher blondies.
Step 7: Fold in Chips and Nuts
Gently fold in your choice of chips (chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter) and the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Bake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Seasonal Flavor Boosts
- Fall: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Winter: Mix in some peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
- Spring: Stir in some chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity burst.
- Summer: Incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
Problems & Prevention
- Blondies are too cakey: Ensure you are not overmixing once you add the flour mixture. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a cakier texture.
- Blondies are too dry: Be careful not to overbake. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
- Blondies stick to the pan: Make sure to properly line your baking pan with parchment paper, or grease it well.
- Uneven baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
Fosters Market Blondies can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
Common Questions
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are delicious, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
What can I use if I don’t have brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with granulated sugar, but the blondies will be less chewy and flavorful. For a quick brown sugar substitute, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a blend that works well for baking to ensure the best texture.
How do I know when my blondies are done baking?
The edges will be firm and slightly golden, while the center may look a bit underbaked. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
Cook This Next
Hungry for More?
If you’ve enjoyed making Fosters Market Blondies, there’s a world of baking possibilities waiting for you! From cookies to cakes and everything in between, explore your creativity in the kitchen. Each recipe is a chance to learn and share delightful flavors with family and friends.
Indulging in warm, gooey Fosters Market Blondies is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of rich, buttery goodness fill your home. Happy baking!
Fosters Market Blondies
Ingredients
For the Blondies:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened (3 sticks)
- 4 cups light brown sugar firmly packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips (12 ounces)
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
Instructions
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help lift the blondies out later.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in your choice of chips and the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Baking Pan
- Parchment Paper
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg in the fall.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
- To freeze, wrap each blondie in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
