Get ready to indulge in a treat that’s both wholesome and delicious! These Sweet Potato Blondies with Maple Syrup Glaze are the perfect blend of sweet and savory. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create these soft, chewy bars. With just a few ingredients and tasty variations, you’ll love making them for family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to bring joy to your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Sweet Potato Blondies
To make sweet potato blondies, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (cooked and cooled)
– 1/2 cup smooth almond butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
These ingredients blend together to create a rich and moist base for the blondies. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and nutrition. Almond butter gives a creamy texture and a nutty flavor. The brown sugar and maple syrup enhance the sweetness and provide depth.
Ingredients for Maple Syrup Glaze
For the tasty maple syrup glaze, you will need:
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
This glaze adds a sweet and sticky finish to your blondies. Mixing these two simple ingredients creates a perfect topping.
Optional Add-ins and Substitutions
Feel free to customize your blondies! Here are some ideas:
– Use peanut butter instead of almond butter for a different taste.
– Swap whole wheat flour for oat flour for a gluten-free option.
– Add chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor.
– Incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm twist.
These variations let you make the recipe your own. Explore different flavors and textures to find your perfect blondie! For the complete recipe, check out the full recipe link.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Next, take an 8×8 inch baking dish. Grease it well with oil or line it with parchment paper. Lining makes it easy to lift out the blondies later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes. Make sure they are cooked and cooled. Then, add 1/2 cup of smooth almond butter. Next, pour in 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Crack in 2 large eggs and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key for a rich flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, measure out 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour. Add in 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Use a whisk to combine these dry ingredients well. This helps ensure even rising and flavor distribution.
Baking the Blondies
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. If you like, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans for added crunch. Pour the batter into your prepared dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean.
Preparing the Maple Syrup Glaze
While the blondies bake, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of maple syrup with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth. This glaze adds a sweet finish to your blondies.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, drizzle the maple syrup glaze over the top. Cut the blondies into squares and serve on a decorative plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or extra pecans to impress your guests. Enjoy these delicious treats with a cup of tea or coffee. For the complete process, refer to the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfectly Mashed Sweet Potatoes
To get creamy sweet potatoes, start with the right kind. Use soft, cooked sweet potatoes. Bake or steam them for the best flavor. Once cooked, let them cool before mashing. This helps keep their sweetness intact. For smoothness, use a potato masher or food processor. You want a light and fluffy texture.
Recommended Baking Dish Sizes
For this recipe, an 8×8 inch baking dish works best. It gives the blondies a nice thickness. If you want thinner blondies, use a larger dish. A 9×13 inch dish will also work but check for doneness earlier. Keep in mind that baking time may vary based on the dish size.
How to Check for Doneness
To check if the blondies are ready, use a toothpick. Insert it in the center. If it comes out clean, they are done! If you see wet batter, bake a little longer. Keep a close eye on them. Overbaking may make them dry. Remember, the edges will look slightly golden but the center should stay soft.
For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy your baking!
Variations
Gluten-Free Adaptation
You can make these sweet potato blondies gluten-free. Just swap the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a mix that has a good balance of flours. This change keeps the blondies soft and tasty.
Vegan Option Substituting Eggs
To make these blondies vegan, you need to replace the eggs. Use flax eggs instead. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients together.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add extra flavors to your blondies. Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm touch. A splash of almond extract can also boost the taste. If you want a chocolate twist, fold in some dark chocolate chips. These small changes can make your blondies unique and delightful.
For more details on the recipe, check the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Blondies
To keep your sweet potato blondies fresh, place them in an airtight container. This will help them stay moist and tasty. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for about a week. Just remember, these blondies are best enjoyed fresh!
Freezing Instructions
If you have extra blondies, freezing is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take out what you need.
Reheating Tips for Best Texture
To bring back that fresh-baked goodness, reheat your blondies. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10 minutes. You can also use the microwave for a quick fix. Heat a single blondie on low power for about 15-20 seconds. This keeps them soft without drying them out. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup glaze from the full recipe!
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters?
Yes, you can use other nut butters. Peanut butter works well too. Sunflower seed butter is a good choice for nut-free diets. Each option adds its own flavor. Make sure to use a smooth variety for the best texture.
How do I cut the blondies for serving?
To cut the blondies, let them cool for about 15 minutes. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Cut them into squares or rectangles. For neat edges, wipe the knife between cuts. This simple step makes them look nice on a plate.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the blondies a day or two ahead. Just store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh and delicious. The flavors often deepen over time, making them even better.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey is a great substitute. Agave nectar also works well. Each option will change the flavor slightly, but the blondies will still taste amazing.
How to tell if the blondies are still good after storage?
Check for dryness or an off smell. If they seem moist and smell sweet, they are likely still good. Store them properly in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.
For the full recipe, please refer to the earlier sections. Enjoy your sweet potato blondies!
Sweet potato blondies are a tasty treat made with simple ingredients. You learned about main components, optional add-ins, and step-by-step baking tips. We covered how to make a maple syrup glaze and shared storage advice to keep them fresh. Remember, you can adapt these blondies for gluten-free or vegan diets.
In the end, these blondies are not just easy to make; they are delicious and versatile. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing them with friends!
