These Blueberry Lemon Blondies are a scrumptious treat that combines tart lemons and sweet blueberries. They’re soft and chewy, perfect for snacks or dessert!
Whenever I make these, I can’t resist the bright flavors! They also make my kitchen smell fantastic. Just bake, slice, and enjoy the yummy goodness with friends! 🍋🫐
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you prefer, you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Just melt it the same way and let it cool slightly before mixing.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with texture. If you want a healthier choice, brown sugar can provide a bit of moisture and flavor. You might also try coconut sugar for a lighter taste.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal for this recipe, but frozen can work in a pinch. Just make sure to add them directly from the freezer without thawing to avoid extra moisture in the batter.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring brightness to the flavor. If fresh isn’t available, bottled lemon juice can substitute, although the zest is key for that aromatic touch. Dried lemon zest isn’t quite the same but can work in a pinch.
How Do I Avoid Overmixing the Batter?
Overmixing can lead to tough blondies, and we want them to be soft and chewy. Here are my tips:
- Mix the wet ingredients until just combined. You want everything blended but not whipped.
- When combining wet and dry, use a spatula to fold gently. It’s okay if you see some flour streaks; it will bake well.
- As you add blueberries, use the same folding technique. This keeps them intact and scattered throughout the batter.
How to Make Blueberry Lemon Blondies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Batter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
For the Lemon Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes for baking. After that, just let the blondies cool for a bit before adding the lemon glaze. In total, you’ll be spending about 50 minutes to an hour to make these delightful treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease an 8×8 inch baking pan, then line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some overhang; this will help you lift the blondies out later!
2. Mix the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter. Add the granulated sugar and whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step helps to get that lovely caramel-like flavor!
3. Add in the Eggs and Flavorings:
Now, crack in the eggs and add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat the mixture until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. The lemon zest will add a lovely fragrance!
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to ensure everything blends together nicely, giving you a fluffy blondie.
5. Fold the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently folding them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want the blondies to be light and tender.
6. Add the Blueberries:
Take your fresh blueberries and gently fold them into the batter. Be careful not to squish them—this will keep your blondies nice and juicy with whole blueberries!
7. Bake the Blondies:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Make the Lemon Drizzle:
While the blondies are baking, you can prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice until you achieve a smooth, drizzly consistency.
9. Cool and Drizzle:
Once the blondies are done baking, let them cool completely in the pan. After they’ve cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. This will add a sweet and zesty finish!
10. Cut and Serve:
Finally, cut the blondies into squares and serve. Enjoy these delightful Blueberry Lemon Blondies with a smile!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen blueberries in this recipe, but do not thaw them beforehand. Just add them directly to the batter to prevent excess moisture from affecting the blondies’ texture.
What Can I Substitute for Unsalted Butter?
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Melt it as you would butter, letting it cool slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients. For a lighter option, try using applesauce, but it may slightly alter the density.
How Should I Store Leftover Blondies?
Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins to the Batter?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or additional citrus zest for an extra flavor boost. Just be mindful of the total volume of add-ins so they don’t overwhelm the batter.
