Spiced Gingerbread Blondies Irresistible Holiday Treat

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Get ready to indulge! These Spiced Gingerbread Blondies are the perfect holiday treat. They blend warm spices with a rich, buttery texture, making them hard to resist. I’ll show you how to make them from scratch, share helpful tips, and even suggest fun mix-ins. Whether you’re baking for your family or as gifts, these blondies will bring joy to your holiday table. Let’s get started!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Comforting Flavors: The combination of spices in these blondies creates a warm, inviting flavor that is perfect for cozy gatherings or cold evenings.
2. Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a fantastic choice for last-minute desserts or when you want something delicious without much fuss.
3. Customizable Add-ins: With options to include nuts or white chocolate chips, you can easily tailor these blondies to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
4. Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 24 squares, these blondies are ideal for sharing at parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying with family and friends.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make spiced gingerbread blondies, gather these items:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs

– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 2 teaspoons ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

These ingredients bring warmth and sweetness to your blondies. The butter makes them rich, while the spices give a lovely gingerbread flavor.

Optional Add-ins

You can enhance your blondies with these add-ins:

– Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch.

– White chocolate chips bring a sweet, creamy touch.

Feel free to mix and match based on your taste. These extras make the blondies even more special.

Substitutions

If you need to swap any items, here are some ideas:

– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

– Swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.

– For gluten-free blondies, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

These substitutions keep the spirit of the recipe while catering to your needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, gather your ingredients. You need:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs

– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 2 teaspoons ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This makes removal easy later.

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth. Next, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This helps blend the dry ingredients evenly.

Now, fold the dry mix into the wet mix. Use a spatula and combine gently. Do not over mix; this keeps your blondies soft. If you want, add the optional nuts and white chocolate chips now.

Baking Instructions

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean.

Cooling and Serving

After baking, take the pan out of the oven. Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, cut the blondies into squares. For a special touch, serve them on a nice platter. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it even better!

Tips & Tricks

Baking Tips for Perfect Blondies

To make the best spiced gingerbread blondies, follow these simple tips:

– Use room temperature eggs: This helps blend ingredients well.

– Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined for a soft texture.

– Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.

– Cool properly: Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to boost the flavor? Here are some ideas:

– Add a pinch of salt: It enhances sweetness and balances flavors.

– Try different spices: Swap in cardamom or allspice for a twist.

– Mix in citrus zest: Add orange or lemon zest for freshness.

– Use dark brown sugar: This adds a deeper flavor and moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your blondies in fun ways to impress guests:

– Dust with powdered sugar: This adds a nice touch and looks great.

– Pair with whipped cream: A dollop of cream makes it indulgent.

– Serve warm with ice cream: The contrast of warm blondies and cold ice cream is delightful.

– Create a dessert platter: Mix with cookies and brownies for variety.

Variations

Alternative Spice Blends

You can change the spice mix to fit your taste. Try using pumpkin pie spice instead of the ground ginger and cinnamon. This gives the blondies a warm, cozy flavor. You could also add a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist. Experimenting with spices can lead to tasty surprises.

Different Mix-ins

Mix-ins can make your blondies even more exciting. Instead of pecans or walnuts, try adding chopped dried fruit like cranberries or apricots. These add a nice sweetness and chewiness. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Gluten-Free Option

Making these blondies gluten-free is easy. Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a good balance of starch and whole grains. This keeps the texture nice and tender. Always check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free too. With these tweaks, everyone can enjoy this holiday treat!

Storage Info

How to Store Blondies

I recommend storing your spiced gingerbread blondies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and moist. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them. In the fridge, they stay good for about two weeks.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is a great way to save your blondies for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each blondie in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label and date the bag for easy access. These blondies can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Methods

To reheat your blondies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes, or until warm. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat them for 15 to 20 seconds. This method keeps them soft and chewy. Enjoy your warm blondies with a cup of tea or coffee!

FAQs

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can use oil instead of butter. However, the texture will change. Butter adds a rich flavor and helps create a tender blondie. If you choose oil, use an equal amount, but note the taste will vary slightly.

How can I make these blondies more holiday-themed?

You can add festive spices or toppings to enhance the holiday spirit. Consider adding crushed candy canes, dried cranberries, or chopped pecans. You can also drizzle white chocolate over the top. Using holiday-themed cookie cutters for shapes adds fun too.

What is the best way to cut blondies?

To cut blondies neatly, first cool them completely. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean lines. For easier removal, lift them out of the pan using parchment paper. Wipe the knife between cuts for a clean edge.

You now have a clear guide to making delicious blondies. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step baking, and helpful tips to perfect your treat. You learned about fun variations and how to store them right. Remember, baking is about enjoying the process. Get creative with mix-ins and spices. Share your blondies with friends and family for added joy. With this knowledge, you can bake blondies that impress everyone. Happy bakin

Spiced Gingerbread Blondies

Deliciously spiced blondies with a hint of ginger and optional nuts and white chocolate.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 4 teaspoon salt
• 1 2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a whisk, blend them together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
• Incorporate the eggs into the sugar mixture, adding them one at a time. After each addition, mix until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract until mixed thoroughly.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
• Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, using a spatula to gently combine them. Be careful to mix just until incorporated to maintain the blondies' tender texture.
• If you like, fold in the optional chopped pecans or walnuts and white chocolate chips to enhance the flavor and texture of the batter.
• Pour the blended batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the blondies comes out clean, indicating they're done.
• After baking, carefully remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cooled, cut the blondies into squares and serve.

Notes

For an elegant touch, arrange the blondies on a decorative platter and sprinkle powdered sugar over the top. To elevate the indulgence, consider serving them with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside!

Keyword baking, blondies, dessert, gingerbread

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