Ina Garten’s Chocolate Chunk Blondies are a delectable twist on the classic dessert. These chewy, buttery bars are loaded with rich chocolate chunks, making them a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just an indulgent snack, this recipe is easy to make and impossible to resist.

What are Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies?

Blondies are similar to brownies but are made without cocoa powder, resulting in a rich, buttery flavor. Ina Garten’s version takes this dessert to the next level with the addition of chocolate chunks, creating a perfect balance of sweet and gooey goodness.

Other Popular Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Rich and chewy: A perfectly gooey texture with a buttery base.
Loaded with chocolate: Generous chunks of chocolate in every bite.
Quick to make: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.
Versatile dessert: Great for parties, gifts, or casual snacking.
Beginner-friendly: No special baking skills are required.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Unsalted butter: 1 cup (softened)
Light brown sugar: 1 1/2 cups, packed
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
Large eggs: 2
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
All-purpose flour: 2 cups
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Chocolate chunks: 1 1/2 cups (dark or semi-sweet)
Walnuts (optional): 1 cup, chopped

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 5: Fold in chocolate and nuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chunks and chopped walnuts (if using) using a spatula.

Step 6: Spread the batter

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the blondies

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and slice

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or bars.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of ice cream makes these blondies even more indulgent.
Milk or coffee: A classic pairing to balance the sweetness.
Whipped cream: Adds a light and airy contrast to the rich blondies.
Fruit garnish: Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing touch.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Use high-quality chocolate: Enhances the flavor and texture of the blondies.
Don’t overbake: Slight underbaking keeps the center gooey and soft.
Line the pan with parchment: This makes removal and slicing much easier.
Customize the mix-ins: Swap walnuts for pecans or add dried fruit.
Chill before slicing: Cooling ensures clean, sharp edges when cutting the blondies.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Peanut butter swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter and swirl it into the batter.
Caramel drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the blondies for extra decadence.
Espresso twist: Mix in 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
White chocolate version: Use white chocolate chunks for a sweeter variation.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Freeze individual bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chocolate Chunk Blondies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With their rich, buttery flavor and gooey chocolate chunks, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Try this recipe today and savor every delicious bite!

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate chunks in blondies?

Yes, chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for chocolate chunks. However, chocolate chunks offer a more luxurious texture and flavor as they melt differently in the blondies.

How do I keep blondies from drying out?

To keep blondies moist, avoid overbaking them. Bake just until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make blondies without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the nuts entirely or replace them with other mix-ins like dried fruit, additional chocolate chunks, or coconut flakes.

How should I store chocolate chunk blondies to keep them fresh?

Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them to extend freshness for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in individual portions.

More Ina Garten Recipes