Name: Caramel Pecan Blondies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups (400 grams) dark brown sugar; 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk; 1 tablespoon molasses (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 cups (254 grams) all-purpose flour; 25 soft caramel candies, unwrapped (200 grams); 3 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 cup pecans, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 72 reviews

If you have a serious sweet tooth and love the perfect balance of buttery richness with nutty crunch, you are going to adore this Caramel Pecan Blondies Recipe. Imagine biting into a moist, golden blondie loaded with soft, gooey caramel and toasted pecans that add just the right amount of texture. This dessert is a total showstopper and a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Once you try this recipe, it may just become your new favorite sweet to share with friends or indulge in whenever you crave something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five square bars of a dessert placed on a light wooden board over a white marbled surface. Each bar has two layers: the bottom layer is a golden-brown cookie-like base, and the top layer is a darker, chocolatey filling studded with visible pieces of nuts. One square is cut and placed on its side, clearly showing the layers and the texture of both the nutty chocolate filling and the crumbly cookie base. The bars have a slightly cracked and rough surface, indicating a chewy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making these luscious blondies, and you’ll find each one plays a critical role in the final taste and texture. From the richness of butter to the chewy caramel center and crunchy pecans, every element is essential to create a dessert that’s both decadent and comforting.

Unsalted butter (2 sticks/227 grams): Melted to give the blondies their rich, tender crumb and moisture.
Dark brown sugar (2 cups/400 grams): Creates deep caramel notes and keeps the blondies delightfully chewy.
Large eggs plus 1 yolk (2 eggs + 1 yolk): Provides structure and helps bind all ingredients together.
Molasses (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds an extra layer of rich flavor, amplifying the caramel hints.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of the blondies.
Fine sea salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies all other flavors.
All-purpose flour (2 cups/254 grams): Builds the base to give the blondies their tender yet firm texture.
Soft caramel candies (25 unwrapped, 200 grams): Melted to create that luscious, gooey middle layer everyone loves.
Heavy cream (3 tablespoons): Melds the caramel candies into a smooth, rich filling.
Pecans (1 cup, chopped): Adds a delightful crunch and buttery nutty flavor that complements the caramel perfectly.

How to Make Caramel Pecan Blondies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8 by 8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper, then spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial because the caramel layer tends to stick to the pan, and lining it makes cleanup much easier and helps you get perfect bars without any tears.

Step 2: Mix the Blondie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and dark brown sugar using a rubber spatula until smooth and shiny. Then add the eggs, the extra yolk, molasses if you’re using it, and vanilla, stirring everything together until fully combined. Sprinkle in the salt and flour and mix gently just until everything is incorporated—overmixing will make the blondies tough, so be mindful here.

Step 3: Bake the First Layer

Pour half of the blondie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake this layer for about 15 minutes or until the top starts to set but isn’t fully baked. This slightly firm base is important to support the caramel filling layer without it leaking out.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Pecan Filling

While the first layer is baking, place the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the caramel melts into a smooth, glossy sauce. Then fold in the chopped pecans, distributing them evenly so every bite will have that wonderful nuts and caramel combination.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Blondies

Pour the warm caramel pecan mixture carefully over the bottom baked blondie layer. After that, spoon the remaining half of the blondie batter over the caramel layer, smoothing it out completely so the caramel is entirely enveloped. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes until a golden brown crust forms and the blondies are set.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once out of the oven, allow the blondies to cool fully in the pan. This will help the caramel middle solidify just enough to cut cleanly. Use a large sharp knife for cutting, wiping it clean with hot water between slices for neat bars. This final care ensures every piece looks just as delicious as it tastes.

How to Serve Caramel Pecan Blondies Recipe

A stack of three thick square bars with three visible layers each: the bottom layer is a dark brown dense base, the middle layer is a golden caramel filling mixed with small walnut pieces, and the top layer is a lighter brown crumbly cookie-like crust with visible walnut bits. The bars are placed on a light wooden surface with a white marbled texture background. The top bar is slightly tilted. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling a few extra toasted pecan halves or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving. A drizzle of melted caramel or a pinch of flaky sea salt can elevate the flavor even more, turning the dessert into a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Side Dishes

These blondies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance their sweetness. A cup of rich coffee or a smooth cup of tea perfectly complements the caramel’s buttery notes for an indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these blondies in mini bite-sized squares for a party platter or layered between wax paper to create a stunning homemade gift. You can also stack them with alternating layers of whipped cream and fresh berries for a unique dessert trifle that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Caramel Pecan Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy, best within three days. Keeping them well-covered prevents them from drying out and ensures the caramel stays delightfully gooey.

Freezing

If you want to keep your blondies longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze wonderfully for up to two months. To enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

For that freshly baked feel, warm a piece of blondie briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, which will revive the caramel’s gooey texture and soften the nuts just a bit, making every bite irresistible.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in this recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts work beautifully as a nut substitute and will provide a similar crunch and buttery flavor. Just chop them roughly and use the same quantity as pecans.

Is the molasses necessary in this Caramel Pecan Blondies Recipe?

The molasses is optional but highly recommended because it enhances the rich, deep caramel flavor. If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can omit it and still have delicious blondies.

How do I prevent the caramel from leaking during baking?

Lining your baking pan with foil or parchment and spraying it well is key to managing the sticky caramel. Also, baking the bottom layer before adding the caramel helps create a stable base that keeps the layers distinct.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just ensure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.

What’s the best way to cut these blondies cleanly?

Use a large sharp knife heated gently under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This melts any hardened caramel on the blade and ensures smooth, neat cuts without dragging or tearing the bars.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Pecan Blondies Recipe is truly a treasure to keep in your dessert repertoire. Its harmonious blend of buttery dough, luscious caramel, and crunchy nuts creates an unforgettable treat that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. I can’t wait for you to try it and find out why these blondies are one of my all-time favorite indulgences to make and share.