Chocolate Chunk Blondies That Melt in Your Mouth

🍫 Introduction: An Irresistible Tale of Chewy Chocolate Chip Blondies

Grandma’s Kitchen to Global Cravings

The smell of buttery vanilla and molten chocolate used to fill my grandma’s kitchen every Saturday afternoon. I still remember standing on a chair, oversized apron draped around me, helping her stir together the golden batter that would soon become our favorite treat: Chocolate Chunk Blondies. Those early moments shaped my obsession with gooey, chewy, chocolate-studded bars that are as nostalgic as they are indulgent.

Chocolate Chunk Blondies aren’t just another dessert—they’re a rich bite of American baking history. In fact, these golden bars actually predate brownies, with early versions appearing in U.S. cookbooks as far back as the late 1800s. Before chocolate became mainstream in baking, blondies were the go-to bar dessert. Unlike brownies, which use cocoa powder or melted chocolate, blondies lean into brown sugar and vanilla to deliver a buttery, caramelized flavor that’s totally unique. Add generous chunks of chocolate and you’ve got a next-level treat.

Today, blondies have gone global, with top fans in:
🇺🇸 USA, 🇬🇧 UK, 🇨🇦 Canada, 🇦🇺 Australia, 🇩🇪 Germany, 🇮🇪 Ireland, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇳🇿 New Zealand, 🇳🇱 Netherlands, and 🇵🇭 the Philippines.

But why stop at basic blondies when you can bake the ultimate version? Chocolate Chunk Blondies bring everything you love about a classic blondie and load it with gooey, melty chunks of semisweet chocolate. They’re perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or late-night cravings—and this recipe is the gold standard.

Craving more chewy, chocolaty recipes? Don’t miss our Tahini Swirl Brownies for your next indulgence! 

🍴 What You’ll Need

Blondie-Making Essentials You Shouldn’t Skip

Crafting the perfect batch of Chocolate Chunk Blondies starts long before you mix a single ingredient. It begins with assembling the right tools to ensure each step is smooth and your bars bake up flawlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these essentials will elevate your results. 👩‍🍳

First things first, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish—this is the gold standard for baking blondies with just the right thickness. To keep cleanup simple and your bars intact, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides so you can easily lift the blondies out once they’ve cooled.

To properly cream the butter and sugars, you’ll need either a hand mixer or a stand mixer. This step is key for creating that airy, soft texture. No mixer? A sturdy wooden spoon and some muscle will work too, but it might take a bit more time.

Smart Prep Tips for Stress-Free Baking

Once your tools are in place, set yourself up for success with a few easy prep moves. Start by pulling your butter and eggs out of the fridge about 30 minutes in advance. This small step makes a big difference in how smoothly everything mixes together.

Next, measure all your ingredients before you begin. Pre-chopping your chocolate chunks not only ensures even distribution but also gives you that decadent melt-in-your-mouth effect in every square. If you’re tossing in walnuts, a quick toast in a dry skillet will deepen their flavor and add a satisfying crunch.

Lastly, preheat your oven to 350°F before mixing the batter. A properly heated oven helps your blondies bake evenly, avoiding dry edges or underbaked centers.

🧂 Ingredients

Pantry Staples You Likely Already Have

What makes Chocolate Chunk Blondies so irresistible isn’t just the gooey texture or rich flavor—it’s the way simple ingredients come together to create pure dessert magic. Chances are, most of the ingredients you’ll need are already in your pantry or fridge.

Here’s your must-have list for that perfect chewy bite:

• 1 pound unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups packed light brown sugar – adds that deep caramel flavor

• 1 cup granulated sugar – balances sweetness

• 4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – go for the real deal

• 4 large eggs – room temp for best mixing

• 2 teaspoons baking soda – for lift

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt – enhances flavor

• 3 cups all-purpose flour – the base of that perfect crumb

• 3 cups semisweet chocolate chunks – meltier than chips, richer in flavor

These ingredients create a perfectly thick, chewy blondie base with loads of melty chocolate in every square. 

Optional Add-Ins for Next-Level Flavor

Want to add a little flair or crunch? These ingredients are optional—but highly recommended if you want to switch things up or impress a crowd:

• 2 cups chopped walnuts – add a toasty, nutty crunch

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon – for subtle warmth

• 1 tablespoon espresso powder – deepens the chocolate flavor

• White chocolate chips – for a flavor twist

• A pinch of flaky sea salt – sprinkle on top before baking for that sweet-salty magic ✨

Customize your batch based on what you have or what you love. These blondies are a blank canvas—go classic or get creative.

🧁 Instructions: How to Make Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Whip Up the Perfect Blondie Batter

Get ready to create a pan of blondies so irresistible, they might not even make it to the cooling rack! The secret to achieving that ideal chewy texture with gooey chocolate in every bite starts with the way you mix.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Meanwhile, line your 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily after baking.

2. In a spacious bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth. Use a stand or hand mixer to blend until the mixture turns creamy and light—this helps trap air for that fluffy texture.

3. Incorporate the eggs individually, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, making sure everything is thoroughly combined.

4. In a different bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt by them together. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined—don’t overmix or the blondies can turn cakey.

5. Gently fold in your semisweet chocolate chunks and optional toasted walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Baking Tips for Gooey, Golden Results

1. Pour the batter into your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. You’ll want every bite to have that same chewy edge and soft center.

2. Bake on the center rack for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

3. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan. This is crucial—the texture firms up as they rest, giving you clean slices with gooey centers.

4. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out of the pan and slice into bars. A sharp knife and gentle pressure go a long way in preserving those neat edges!

📌 Craving another chewy bar to add to your baking list? Don’t miss our wildly popular Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge—a salty-sweet combo that’s as addictive as it sounds.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Times

From Bowl to Bite in Under an Hour

If you’re short on time but still craving something indulgent, this recipe has your back. Whether you’re baking for a party or just a cozy night in, you’ll have warm, gooey Chocolate Chunk Blondies ready before your next episode ends.

Here’s the full time commitment:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Bake Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

That’s right—less than an hour from start to finish. The simple ingredients and easy mixing steps make this recipe ideal for weeknight baking or last-minute dessert needs.

Want to speed things up even more? Measure your ingredients ahead of time and pre-line your baking dish with parchment paper. These quick prep tips can shave off precious minutes and keep your kitchen clean.

If you’re planning a baking day, pair this recipe with our fan-favorite Lemon Dump Cake—an effortless sweet-and-tart treat that complements the richness of these blondies perfectly. 🍋

🧬 Nutrition Score

Nutritional Value per Serving (1 bar out of 24)

While Chocolate Chunk Blondies are all about indulgence, it’s still helpful to know what’s inside each golden square. Whether you’re tracking your macros or just want to be more mindful, here’s a snapshot of the average nutrition per bar when sliced into 24 servings:

• Calories: ~320

• Fat: ~18g

• Carbohydrates: ~36g

• Protein: ~3g

• Sugar: ~24g

Keep in mind, these numbers may vary slightly depending on your chocolate and any extra add-ins like walnuts or sea salt flakes.

Blondies like these are meant to be an occasional treat—sweet, rich, and soul-soothing. If you’re sharing with friends or family, it’s easy to enjoy a square (or two 😉) without overdoing it.

Tips for Making It Slightly Healthier

Looking to lighten things up while keeping the deliciousness? Here are a few smart swaps that maintain flavor and texture:

• Use half all-purpose flour, half almond flour for a boost of healthy fats and protein

• Swap half the butter with mashed ripe bananas or unsweetened applesauce

• Cut the sugar by ¼ cup (especially if using sweeter chocolate or white chocolate chips)

• Add flaxseed meal or chia seeds for a subtle texture upgrade and extra fiber

And remember: homemade always beats store-bought when it comes to controlling ingredients! 💪

Want to try another better-for-you baked good? You’ll love our Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad—a light, fruity dessert that’s refreshing and easy to prep.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Storage

Best Ways to Serve Blondies

Fresh out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, Chocolate Chunk Blondies are a crowd-pleaser any way you slice them. Want to take yours from delicious to downright decadent? Try one of these fun ways to serve them:

• Warm and à la mode: Heat a blondie square for 10 seconds and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate gooey-meets-creamy combo 🍨

• Drizzle with caramel or hot fudge: A quick drizzle adds a rich finish—especially if you’re entertaining

• Stack and serve: Create dessert towers for parties by stacking bars with layers of whipped cream or fruit between them

• Bite-sized portions: Cut into mini squares for snack boards or bake sales—they’re perfect for sampling!

Pair these with your favorite coffee or milk for a satisfying treat that feels comforting yet indulgent.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

If you manage to have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to keep them fresh and chewy for days:

• Room temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Slip in a slice of bread to help retain moisture.

• Freezer-friendly: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag. They’ll last up to 2 months and thaw beautifully at room temp.

• Reheat tip: Warm refrigerated or frozen blondies in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to revive that fresh-baked feel.

Planning ahead? Bake a batch and freeze half for the future. They’re an easy grab-and-go dessert option when you need something sweet in a pinch.

🌀 Variations on Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about Chocolate Chunk Blondies? They’re endlessly customizable. With just a few swaps or additions, you can turn your classic blondie into a new flavor adventure every time you bake. Whether you’re craving something nutty, fruity, or super indulgent, these ideas will spark inspiration:

• Peanut Butter Lover’s Blondies: Replace half the chocolate chunks with peanut butter chips or swirl in creamy peanut butter before baking 🥜

• Espresso Mocha Blondies: Add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter and mix in dark chocolate chunks for a bold, coffeehouse vibe

• Caramel Swirl Blondies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking and use a knife to swirl it through the batter

• Spiced Blondies: A pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg adds warm, cozy notes—perfect for fall gatherings

• Fruit Fusion: Add dried cherries, cranberries, or chopped dates to balance the sweetness of the chocolate with some tart chew

Reader-Favorite Swaps

We’ve heard from countless readers who love putting their own twist on this recipe! Here are a few of their go-to upgrades:

• Nutella Swirl: Spoon dollops of Nutella into the batter and gently swirl it for a delicious hazelnut-chocolate twist before baking./

• Cookie Butter Blondies: Swap vanilla extract for cookie butter and swirl in extra for a melt-in-your-mouth treat

• White Chocolate Raspberry: Fold in white chocolate chips and freeze-dried raspberries for a fruity and sweet combo

• Browned Butter Base: Brown the butter before mixing for a nutty, caramelized upgrade that adds major depth of flavor

• Trail Mix Blondies: Toss in a blend of chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a chewy-crunchy bar that’s perfect for lunchboxes

Looking for more creative takes on classic desserts? Don’t miss our decadent Lemon Poppyseed Blondies for a bright, zesty spin.

Pro Tips for Consistent Results

• Always measure flour accurately—too much leads to cakey blondies
• Let them cool completely before slicing for clean, even bars
• Use a mix of chocolate sizes (chunks + mini chips) for a more dynamic bite
• Add a touch of flaky salt on top for gourmet contrast

Still have a question we didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments—your answer might be featured in our next update!

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