There’s nothing quite like the moment you pull a batch of fresh Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies from the oven. The rich aroma of melted butter mingling with the earthy notes of espresso and sweet chocolate fills the air, promising a decadent treat that feels inviting and indulgent. I discovered this delightful recipe during a coffee-fueled baking session on a rainy afternoon, desperate for a cozy pick-me-up that could satisfy my sweet tooth.
These blondies strike the perfect balance between chewy and fudgy, offering an unexpected punch of espresso flavor that pairs beautifully with the dark chocolate chunks—an absolute crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a tempting treat to keep to yourself. With a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top, they add a delightful touch of sophistication to your dessert repertoire. Best of all, they come together in just about 45 minutes, making them an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade yet easy to whip up. Dive into this recipe, and transform your baking game with a new favorite!
Why are Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies so irresistible?
Decadent flavors ignite your taste buds with the bold combination of espresso and rich chocolate. Quick and easy, whip these up in just 45 minutes, perfect for a spontaneous treat. Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed, making them ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in. Unique texture strikes the ultimate balance between chewy and fudgy. And let’s not forget that sprinkle of sea salt adds a sophisticated twist you’ll love! These blondies are sure to become your new go-to dessert.
Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondie Batter
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (225g), melted; this adds richness to the batter.
- Brown sugar – 1 cup (200g), packed; it contributes to the moist, chewy texture.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100g); balances the sweetness and enhances browning.
- Large eggs – 2; they provide structure and moisture to your blondies.
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp; adds a warm, inviting flavor that enhances the chocolate.
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups (250g); the base for structure, keep it measured for perfect texture.
- Baking powder – 1 tsp; ensures a light and fluffy consistency in your blondies.
- Baking soda – ½ tsp; helps the blondies rise for that perfect bite.
- Salt – ½ tsp; highlights the sweetness while balancing flavors.
- Espresso powder – 1 tbsp; adds the delightful coffee kick that marries beautifully with chocolate.
- Dark chocolate chunks – 1 ½ cups (250g); these add melty goodness and richness to every bite.
For the Topping
- Flaky sea salt – for topping; a sprinkle elevates your salted espresso chocolate chunk blondies, offering a delicious contrast to the sweetness.
How to Make Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to keep your blondies from sticking. This ensures a smooth release after baking.
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Whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy for about a minute, creating a luscious base for your blondies.
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Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture, whisking until everything is fully incorporated. You’re looking for a glossy texture that promises a rich flavor.
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Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder in a separate bowl. This airates the dry ingredients and evenly distributes the espresso for a bold taste.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps your blondies fudgy, not cake-like.
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Fold in the dark chocolate chunks, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Each bite should be rich with chocolatey goodness!
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Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt for that delightful finishing touch.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until you see a golden brown top. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect texture.
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Cool the blondies completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out easily when cooled.
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Slice into squares and enjoy! These blondies make a perfect snack or dessert to share, or to savor all by yourself.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality dark chocolate and fresh espresso powder for the best flavor impact in your blondies.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
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Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a cakey texture instead of the desired fudgy blondies.
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Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking; all ovens vary. Remove the blondies once the top is golden brown and a toothpick shows moist crumbs for a chewy texture.
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Cooling Time: Allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This ensures they set up nicely and don’t fall apart when you cut them.
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Sea Salt Topping: Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top; it elevates the flavors, balancing sweetness and adding a delightful crunch to your salted espresso chocolate chunk blondies.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Use wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and keep them fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Remember to wrap them individually to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Warm them up in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that freshly baked goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately and storing them in the fridge. To prevent the batter from becoming too thick or losing flavor, make sure it’s tightly covered. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold in the chocolate chunks, and pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Bake as directed, and you’ll have fresh, delicious blondies with minimal last-minute effort, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings!
What to Serve with Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies?
Treat your taste buds with the perfect pairings that complement the rich, chocolatey goodness of these blondies.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of mixed berries balances the sweet flavors, adding a refreshing touch to your dessert experience. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries can enhance every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on the warm blondies, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors. Just imagine that luscious combination!
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Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream adds an airy, sweet counterpart to the dense, fudgy blondies. It’s a simple yet delightful way to elevate your dessert.
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Espresso: Enjoy a cup of rich, freshly brewed espresso alongside your blondies. This pairing deepens the coffee notes in the dessert, making for a truly indulgent experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the blondies elevates your dessert to new heights. The sweetness and gooey texture perfectly complement the espresso flavors.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A thick, rich chocolate milkshake combines beautifully with the espresso flavors, making this pairing a decadent treat. It’s like a double chocolate dream!
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Sea Salted Caramel Latte: Enjoy this coffee-drink pairing that carries the same salty-sweet balance to your dessert moment, enhancing both the blondies and your beverage delightfully.
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Nutty Biscotti: Serve alongside a crispy almond or hazelnut biscotti for a delightful crunch that provides a pleasing texture contrast to the fudgy blondies.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats can add a delightful bite alongside the blondies, bringing a tropical flair that complements the coffee notes beautifully.
Each pairing enhances the experience of enjoying your salty espresso chocolate chunk blondies, amplifying their deliciously irresistible flavors.
Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Variations
Feel free to let your imagination run wild with these delightful twists on the classic blondie!
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the chocolate and espresso.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil for butter and use dairy-free chocolate chunks for a vegan-friendly version that’s delicious and guilt-free.
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Flavor Infusion: Swap espresso powder for instant coffee granules if you prefer a milder coffee flavor. This keeps your blondies flavorful without the espresso’s intensity.
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Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising heat that complements the rich chocolate. It’s a delightful way to awaken your taste buds!
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Golden Bliss: Use light brown sugar instead of dark for a subtler flavor and a lighter color. This can make your blondies slightly sweeter and more delicate.
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Fruit Twist: Toss in ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries to add a fruity dimension that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chocolate.
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Extract Alternatives: Use almond or hazelnut extract instead of vanilla for a unique nutty flavor profile that enhances the overall taste.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel or dulce de leche over the top before serving. It adds a sweet, sticky layer that’s irresistibly decadent.
Experimenting with these variations can transform your blondies into something truly special! Enjoy crafting your personalized version.
Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect ingredients for my blondies?
Absolutely! For the best results, select high-quality unsalted butter and dark chocolate chunks with at least 60% cocoa content to deepen the rich flavors. When choosing eggs, opt for fresh, large eggs as they provide better moisture and structure. Also, ensure your espresso powder is fresh for an enhanced coffee flavor—look for a fine powder without any lumps.
What’s the best way to store leftover blondies?
Very! To keep your salted espresso chocolate chunk blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you love a chilled treat, they can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to place wax paper between layers if stacking to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I freeze my blondies for later enjoyment?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to enjoy these little delights later. Simply wrap the blondies individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the best experience, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before devouring!
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If your blondies come out dry, don’t fret! This can happen if they’re overbaked. Always keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as ovens vary. To rescue slightly dry blondies, you can serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with melted chocolate for additional moisture and flavor.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make these blondies gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just remember that these swaps may alter the final texture slightly, so feel free to experiment until you find the right balance!
Can my pets have any of the ingredients?
No, it’s important to note that chocolate and caffeine (like espresso powder) are toxic to pets, especially dogs. Always keep your salted espresso chocolate chunk blondies out of reach of furry friends to ensure their safety. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider making homemade snacks specifically for them!
Irresistible Salted Espresso Chocolate Chunk Blondies Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chunks, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the blondies completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the parchment paper to lift them out easily when cooled.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!