In the cozy corners of my kitchen, the rich scent of melting butter mingles with the deep, warm notes of black treacle, promising a dessert that’s nothing short of magical. These Sticky Toffee Blondies dance between nostalgia and a modern twist, resembling a delightful sticky toffee pudding in a new form. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients yield a treat that’s fudgy, dense, and irresistibly chewy. Not only are they quick to whip up, making them perfect for an impromptu gathering, but their rich flavor profile guarantees they’ll impress even the pickiest of dessert lovers. Ready to dive into a baking adventure? Let’s make these blondies together!
Why are Sticky Toffee Blondies so special?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of deep black treacle and sweetness from dates creates an indulgent flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more!
Nostalgic Twist: These blondies evoke memories of classic sticky toffee pudding, offering a modern take on a beloved dessert.
Easy Preparation: With only a few straightforward steps, these blondies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels—from novices to pros!
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy them chilled or warm, with or without a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them ideal for any occasion.
Quick to Make: They come together in under an hour, which means you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending all day in the kitchen!
If you’re looking for more deliciousness, check out my White Chocolate Toffee recipe for another decadent treat!
Sticky Toffee Blondies Ingredients
For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the blondies; melt gently to avoid burning.
• Black Treacle – Provides depth of flavor and a darker hue, acting like molasses; substitute with molasses if needed.
• White Chocolate – Introduces sweetness and creaminess; reserve some for mixing at the end, or swap it for milk chocolate for a different taste.
• Dates – Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture; use dried dates, or in a pinch, try figs or prunes.
• Bicarbonate of Soda – A key leavening agent; ensure freshness for optimal rise.
• All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Sugar – Sweetens the batter while contributing texture; brown sugar can add extra moisture and depth.
• Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; using flaked sea salt can elevate the taste, especially as a garnish.
These delectable Sticky Toffee Blondies are within reach! Grab your ingredients and let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Toffee Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). While it heats, grease a 7-inch square baking tin and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later. This initial preparation ensures your Sticky Toffee Blondies will be baked evenly, resulting in a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Date Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine chopped dried dates and bicarbonate of soda. Pour in 180ml of boiling water, stirring gently to ensure all dates are covered. Cover the bowl with a lid or a clean kitchen towel and set aside for about 10 minutes. This step allows the dates to soften and meld their sweetness into the blondies.
Step 3: Melt the Butter and Chocolate
On a bain-marie, gently melt the unsalted butter along with 200 grams of white chocolate, stirring frequently until smooth. Keep the heat low to avoid burning and ensure a silky blend. Once combined, remove from heat, allowing the rich, sweet aroma of the mixture to fill your kitchen while you move on to the next step.
Step 4: Mix in Sugar and Flavors
To the melted butter and chocolate mixture, add the sugar, a pinch of salt, and a splash of vanilla extract. Stir well until fully incorporated, creating a glossy mixture. This step enhances the flavor of your Sticky Toffee Blondies and ensures even sweetness throughout the batter.
Step 5: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until fully blended. This will help aerate the batter, resulting in a delightful fudgy texture. Make sure the eggs are room temperature for the best emulsion, contributing to the overall richness of your blondies.
Step 6: Combine the Flour and Baking Powder
Sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder directly into the mixture, folding it gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense blondies. The batter should be thick and smooth, bursting with the potential of those heavenly Sticky Toffee Blondies.
Step 7: Add Dates and Reserve Chocolate
Drain the softened dates, then fold them into the blondie batter, along with the 100 grams of reserved chopped white chocolate. Gently mix until evenly distributed, ensuring every bite of your blondies is packed with chewy dates and creamy chocolate goodness.
Step 8: Pour and Level the Batter
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking tin, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. This is crucial to ensure the blondies rise beautifully and maintain that desirable chewy texture throughout. The smell of the Sticky Toffee Blondies will start to waft, heightening the anticipation!
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 27-28 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the center has a gentle wobble. Check for doneness using a skewer; a few moist crumbs sticking to it is ideal, indicating a fudgy, gooey interior typical of perfect Sticky Toffee Blondies.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling part is essential for clean slicing. Once cooled, lift the blondies from the tin using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and prepare for a delightful tasting experience.
What to Serve with Sticky Toffee Blondies
Pair your indulgent blondies with delightful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience!
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy blondies, creating a comforting harmony.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel takes the already sweet flavor to new heights, emphasizing the sticky toffee vibes and adding a luscious texture.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries offer a tart balance, cutting through the richness while adding a burst of color and freshness to your plate.
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of freshly whipped cream provides airy softness that compliments the dense, chewy blondies, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
Espresso or Coffee: Pairing your blondies with a robust espresso or rich coffee enhances the deep flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.
Toast with Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a crunchy contrast to the blondies, bringing in earthy flavors that balance their sweet profile beautifully.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea create a cozy pairing, enhancing the flavors of the blondies while providing a comforting beverage to sip on.
Chocolate Sauce: If you’re a chocolate lover, a warm chocolate sauce can add an extra layer of richness, ensuring every bite is decadently satisfying.
Combining these delightful sides and beverages can transform your Sticky Toffee Blondies into a complete and memorable dessert experience!
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Toffee Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your blondies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and fudgy without compromising flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to maintain that delicious texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, cut the blondies into squares and freeze individually for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm blondie, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through—perfect for that ooey-gooey experience!
Sticky Toffee Blondies Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these Sticky Toffee Blondies and make them truly your own with just a few simple swaps or additions!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these blondies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Reduced Sugar: Substitute half of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce for a lower sugar option without sacrificing moisture.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative to create a dairy-free version.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that balances the chewy texture of the blondies.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Choco-licious: Replace white chocolate with semisweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor that many chocolate lovers will adore.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist that brightens up the flavors.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle over some homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent treat that connects beautifully with the toffee essence.
With these options, you’re set for a baking adventure! And if you’re ever in the mood for more sweetness, try out my White Chocolate Toffee recipe as another delightful dessert option!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Toffee Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients (excluding the dates and reserved chocolate) and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the softened dates and reserved chocolate right before baking to ensure the tastiness remains intact. Alternatively, you can bake the blondies ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze individual squares for up to 3 months. This way, you can pull them out whenever a sweet craving strikes, and they’ll be just as delicious as if they were fresh from the oven!
Expert Tips for Sticky Toffee Blondies
Go Generous with Salt: Sprinkle a bit more salt than you think is necessary; it beautifully enhances the sweetness and depth of these Sticky Toffee Blondies.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye as they bake—it’s better for the center to be slightly underbaked than overdone. A gentle wobble indicates fudgy perfection!
Cool Completely: Resist the temptation to cut too soon. Allow the blondies to cool fully in the tin to ensure clean, beautiful slices and avoid falling apart.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your bicarbonate of soda is fresh for the best rise; expired baking soda can lead to heavy, dense blondies.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to play around—add nuts, other chocolates, or different dried fruits to personalize your Sticky Toffee Blondies!
Sticky Toffee Blondies Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for Sticky Toffee Blondies?
For the best results, use unsalted butter. It adds richness and moisture while allowing you to control the saltiness of the dessert. Always melt it gently to avoid burning, as this enhances the overall flavor of your blondies.
How should I store my Sticky Toffee Blondies?
Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them chilled, they can be kept in the fridge for up to 7 days, just make sure they are well-wrapped to maintain their delicious texture.
Can I freeze Sticky Toffee Blondies?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, cut the blondies into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just microwave for 10-15 seconds when you’re craving a warm bite!
What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If your Sticky Toffee Blondies turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking. Ensure you check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time; they should have a slight wobble in the center when they’re done. If you face this issue, you can also drizzle some warm caramel or toffee sauce over them to add moisture.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, this recipe contains dairy and gluten, which might not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Always check the ingredients and consider using gluten-free flour and dairy-free alternatives if needed. Additionally, if you’re baking for someone with food allergies, ensure they aren’t allergic to any specific ingredients like dates or chocolate.
Can I substitute the black treacle in the recipe?
Certainly! If black treacle isn’t available, you can substitute it with molasses or honey. Just keep in mind that each substitute may slightly alter the flavor profile; however, they will still provide that rich sweetness integral to the blondies.
Heavenly Sticky Toffee Blondies You Can’t Resist!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and grease a 7-inch square baking tin, lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped dried dates and bicarbonate of soda. Pour in 180ml of boiling water, stir gently and cover for 10 minutes.
- Melt unsalted butter and white chocolate in a bain-marie, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Add sugar, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract to the melted mixture and stir until glossy.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until blended.
- Sift in all-purpose flour and baking powder, folding gently until just combined.
- Drain dates and fold them into the batter with reserved white chocolate.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 27-28 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center has a slight wobble.
- Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing.