Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, chewy treats with that perfect balance of sweet and nutty, then this Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe is going to be your new go-to dessert. I absolutely love how these blondies come out with that deep caramel flavor from maple syrup and dark brown sugar, plus the delightful crunch of toasted pecans—trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself baking them over and over.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe relies on pantry staples with a few star ingredients for flavor and texture. The olive oil keeps things moist, while the toasted pecans bring that signature crunch.

• Extra-virgin olive oil: I use this instead of butter for a lighter texture and slight fruity undertone.
• Dark-brown sugar: This is your caramel flavor powerhouse—don’t substitute too lightly!
• Maple syrup: Adds sweetness and that cozy autumn vibe I can’t get enough of.
• Eggs and extra egg yolk: Gives the batter richness and helps with chewiness.
• Vanilla extract: A classic enhancer that deepens all the flavors.
• All-purpose flour: The base of your blondie batter—measuring carefully here matters.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Both combined for just the right lift without turning cake-like.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the maple and pecans.
• Pecans (toasted and chopped): Toasting your nuts first really makes a huge difference in flavor!
• Caramel sauce: For that extra glossy, sweet finish that really sends these over the top.
• Powdered sugar: Used in the glaze for smooth sweetness without grittiness.
• Milk or heavy cream: Adjusts glaze consistency so it spreads perfectly.

Variations

I love tweaking recipes, and this Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe is no exception—you can easily customize it depending on what you have or your taste preferences. Feel free to play around!

• Nut swaps: I’ve tried walnuts and almonds instead of pecans; they each bring a unique crunch and flavor that’s equally delightful.
• Gluten-free: If you need a gluten-free version, just replace the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend—I got great results when I did this for a family member.
• Spiced Twist: Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice can give that cozy pumpkin-flavored edge perfect for fall.
• Chocolate Add-ins: For some extra richness, toss in a handful of dark chocolate chips—they melt in a way you will absolutely crave.

How to Make Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Pecans for Maximum Flavor

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lay the pecans out flat on a baking sheet and pop them in for about 10 minutes. Give the pan a little shake halfway through so they toast evenly—this little step transforms their flavor, making each bite nutty and aromatic. Once toasted, let them cool before chopping roughly; this prevents them from melting into the batter and keeps that satisfying crunch.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients Until Smooth and Inviting

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, and maple syrup for about one to two minutes. I love how the mixture gets glossy and slightly thick—it’s a good sign you’re on the right track. Stir in the vanilla extract, then whisk in the eggs plus the extra yolk until everything feels smooth and luscious. This combination creates that irresistible richness and chewy texture.

Step 3: Add Your Dry Ingredients and Build the Batter

Next, mix baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients. Gradually add in the flour—about one cup at a time—folding with a spatula rather than whisking. This technique keeps the batter tender and prevents overmixing, which can cause tough blondies. Scrape the sides well to make sure everything is evenly combined. By now, the batter should be thick but spreadable.

Step 4: Fold in Pecans and Bake to Perfection

Gently fold in about 1 1/4 cups of those toasted pecans, then transfer the batter to a parchment-lined 9×13 baking dish. Don’t skip the parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze and means your blondies won’t stick. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of pecans on top for a gorgeous, nutty finish. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs—not wet batter. Let the blondies cool completely before slicing to get clean squares.

How to Serve Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe

Garnishes

I love drizzling a simple caramel glaze on top for extra sweetness. To make it, mix powdered sugar with a little milk or cream until smooth and glossy, then drizzle over cooled blondies. You can sprinkle extra chopped pecans or even a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for that delightful sweet-salty contrast—I think it really elevates this treat.

Side Dishes

These blondies pair amazingly well with a cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the maple flavor. For a dessert spread, try serving them alongside creamy vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh berries to balance all that richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special occasions, I like cutting these blondies into mini squares and arranging them on a festive platter with edible flowers or rosemary sprigs for color and aroma. You could also skewer them with a piece of candied pecan on top for a fun, bite-sized treat that your guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover blondies stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay wonderfully moist and chewy, making them perfect grab-and-go snacks or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Freezing

If I want to keep them longer, I wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop a blondie in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm it gently in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This refreshes their softness and brings back that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Maple Pecan Blondies Recipe has become a favorite not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s simple and feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Every time I bake these, my family goes crazy for that perfect mix of soft, sweet, and nutty flavors. I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) these as much as I do—seriously, they’re worth keeping in your recipe arsenal for whenever you want an indulgent but approachable treat.

Print