Almond Frangipane Blondies

These Almond Frangipane Blondies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. With their chewy, buttery texture and the rich flavor reminiscent of an almond croissant, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these blondies will surely impress. The combination of almond flour and brown butter elevates this dessert, making it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of almond flour and brown butter creates a unique taste that is both nutty and sweet.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these blondies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or as an after-dinner dessert.
• Chewy Texture: These blondies are chewy and satisfying, making them the ideal snack.
• Makes 16 Servings: This recipe yields plenty to share with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare the Almond Frangipane Blondies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• 8×8 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• 8×8 baking pan: Ideal size for even cooking and easy portioning.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Almond Frangipane Blondies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Blondie Base

• 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup (66g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅔ cup (64g) almond flour

For the Topping

• 10 tbsp (140g) unsalted butter (see notes)
• ⅔ cup (133g) brown sugar (packed)
• ⅓ cup (66g) granulated sugar
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 1¼ cup (150g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (24g) almond flour
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar for topping

How to Make Almond Frangipane Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 light-colored baking pan with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier.

Step 3: Mix the Blondie Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Melted unsalted butter.
2. Granulated sugar.
3. Egg, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Stir in almond flour until well blended.

Step 4: Create the Topping Mixture

In another bowl, mix:
1. Brown sugar and granulated sugar with melted unsalted butter.
2. Add in eggs, yolk, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Gradually mix in all-purpose flour followed by additional almond flour until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine & Bake

Pour the blondie base into your prepared pan.
– Spread evenly.
– Pour topping mixture over it.
– Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.

Bake for about 35 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar.

Enjoy your homemade Almond Frangipane Blondies!

How to Serve Almond Frangipane Blondies

Almond Frangipane Blondies are delightful treats that can be served in various ways to enhance their rich, buttery flavor. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your blondies with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness complements the sweet almond flavor beautifully.

Whipped Coconut Cream

• Top the blondies with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option that adds lightness and a hint of tropical flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm blondies, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Drizzled Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle a rich chocolate sauce over the blondies for an indulgent touch that enhances their sweetness.

Iced Coffee or Tea

• Serve your blondies alongside a refreshing iced coffee or herbal tea. The beverages balance the richness of the dessert wonderfully.

Toasted Almonds on Top

• For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle toasted almonds on top before serving. This will elevate the almond essence in the blondies.

How to Perfect Almond Frangipane Blondies

To create the perfect Almond Frangipane Blondies, consider these helpful tips that enhance texture and flavor.

• Use Brown Butter: Browning the butter adds a nutty and rich flavor that elevates the taste of your blondies significantly.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results. Use a kitchen scale for precise amounts, especially for flour and sugars.
• Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent tough blondies. Overmixing can lead to dense results instead of chewy ones.
• Cool Before Cutting: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them set properly and retain their shape.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Almond Frangipane Blondies

Pairing side dishes with your Almond Frangipane Blondies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great ideas:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the blondies.
2. Almond Milkshake: Blend almond milk with vanilla ice cream for a creamy shake that complements the almond flavors beautifully.
3. Citrus Sorbet: A scoop of citrus sorbet provides a refreshing contrast, cleansing your palate between bites.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which contrast nicely with sweet desserts.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent treats add romance and elegance when served alongside your blondies.
6. Caramel Sauce Dip: A small dish of caramel sauce allows guests to dip their blondie bites for extra sweetness and richness.
7. Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer granola, yogurt, and fruit in glasses for a crunchy side that pairs well with moist blondies.
8. Spiced Chai Latte: This warm beverage offers aromatic spices that complement the flavors in the blondie while providing cozy comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Almond Frangipane Blondies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients – Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your blondies.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of the desired chewy texture.
• Using cold butter – Brown butter should be melted and slightly cooled before adding it to the batter. Cold butter won’t incorporate properly, affecting the blondie’s richness.
• Not measuring flour accurately – Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents too much flour, which can make blondies dry.
• Skipping parchment paper – Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes removal easier and ensures even baking. Skipping this step can cause sticking and uneven edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they cool completely before placing them in the container to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Almond Frangipane Blondies

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Almond Frangipane Blondies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave – Heat one blondie on high for about 10-15 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common question about Almond Frangipane Blondies.

What are Almond Frangipane Blondies?

Almond Frangipane Blondies are rich, chewy desserts that combine almond flavors with a buttery base, reminiscent of an almond croissant.

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes! You can substitute with other nut flours like hazelnut or pistachio to create different flavor profiles while keeping the same texture.

How do I know when my Almond Frangipane Blondies are done?

The blondies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to cook as they cool.

How can I customize my Almond Frangipane Blondies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different spices like cinnamon to enhance flavors according to your preference.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These Almond Frangipane Blondies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their chewy texture and rich almond flavor make them a delightful treat for any occasion. Experiment with different nuts or add-ins for unique variations that suit your taste!