Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan Chocolate Chunk Blondies

Okay, friend—buckle up, because I’m about to introduce you to a blondie that’s rich, nutty, gooey, and just a little bit grown up in the best way possible. These Drunken Butter Pecan Bliss Bars are what happens when browned butter, bourbon, and melty pools of dark chocolate get together and throw a party in a golden, chewy bar. The toasted pecans bring that warm, buttery crunch, and the bourbon? It doesn’t scream, but it whispers just enough to make every bite feel extra special.

These bars are dangerously easy to make, but taste like something you’d order at a fancy bakery. They’re warm and sweet, but with a little edge. Trust me—you’re going to love this. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and watch people melt. This one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Drunken Butter Pecan Bliss Bars

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, impressing guests at a dinner party, or sneaking a treat for yourself after a long day, these bars are made for memory-making. Here’s why they’re so beloved:

Decadently Unique: Browned butter + bourbon + chocolate = pure bliss. This combo is rich, cozy, and totally unforgettable.
Foolproof and Fast: One bowl, no mixer, no stress. Just stir, pour, and bake.
Customizable: No bourbon? Sub vanilla or rum extract. Don’t love pecans? Try walnuts or leave them out.
Make-Ahead Magic: These taste even better the next day, making them perfect for prepping ahead for events or gifting.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a bake sale, holiday table, or after-dinner indulgence, these bars never fail to wow.

Ingredients in Drunken Butter Pecan Bliss Bars

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Brown Butter

Brings deep, nutty, caramel-like richness that takes these blondies from basic to bougie.

Brown Sugar

Gives the bars that chewy texture and molasses-kissed sweetness.

Eggs

Helps hold everything together while adding moisture and richness.

Bourbon

Adds a warm, boozy flavor that enhances the brown butter and pecans. Feel free to sub with vanilla if you prefer.

All-Purpose Flour

The structure that holds the gooey center and crispy edges in perfect balance.

Baking Powder & Salt

Leavening + balance. They make sure your bars don’t fall flat—literally or flavor-wise.

Chopped Pecans

Toasted for max flavor and crunch. They play so well with the brown butter and chocolate.

Dark Chocolate Chunks

Melty, bitter-sweet pockets of chocolate that cut through the richness with every bite.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, letting the sides hang over for easy lifting.

Brown the Butter

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it cook until it starts foaming and you see golden specks at the bottom—it’ll smell nutty and toasty. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the browned butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and bourbon, whisking until creamy and well blended.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

Gently stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Don’t overmix—we want chewy, not cakey.

Add the Mix-Ins

Fold in chopped pecans and chocolate chunks until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Slice

Let the blondies cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment. Slice into bars and serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Drunken Butter Pecan Bliss Bars

These bars are delicious on their own, but here are some ways to level up the experience:

With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Coffee Companion: Pair with a bold cup of coffee or a bourbon-spiked latte for the ultimate afternoon treat.
Dressed Up: Drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar for a fancier finish.
Holiday Table Favorite: Add them to your dessert platter—they’ll disappear fast.

Additional Tips

Toast the Pecans: A quick toast in the oven or skillet boosts flavor and crunch.
Cool Before Cutting: Let them cool to get clean slices—if you can wait!
Adjust the Booze: For a stronger bourbon kick, add a splash more. For none, sub vanilla extract.
Make Ahead: These blondies taste even better the next day—store tightly wrapped at room temp.
Freeze for Later: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Great for lunchbox surprises or late-night cravings.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different liquor instead of bourbon?
A1: Absolutely! Rum or whiskey would also be delicious. For a non-alcoholic version, try vanilla or almond extract.

Q2: Can I double this recipe?
A2: Yes—use a 9×13 pan and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes. Watch for that golden edge and gooey center.

Q3: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
A3: Totally. Milk chocolate will make these sweeter and creamier—go with what you love.

Q4: What’s the best way to toast pecans?
A4: Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes, or until fragrant.

Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?
A5: Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

Q6: How should I store leftovers?
A6: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They also freeze well!

Q7: Can I omit the nuts?
A7: You sure can. The bars will still be delicious, just a bit softer in texture.

Q8: What’s the texture like?
A8: Chewy edges, soft centers, with gooey chunks of chocolate and crunchy pecan bits—dreamy.

Q9: How do I prevent overbaking?
A9: Check a few minutes early. The edges should be golden and the center just set with a few crumbs on the toothpick.

Q10: Can I make this in a cast iron skillet?
A10: Yes! A 10-inch skillet works well—just be sure to grease it well and check baking time a bit early.

Conclusion

These Drunken Butter Pecan Bliss Bars are more than just dessert—they’re a little slice of indulgence, made simple. With gooey centers, nutty crunch, and that irresistible bourbon aroma, they’re guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to get a bite. Bake them for a crowd or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’ve become a repeat request in my kitchen. Now go preheat that oven—your new favorite blondie is waiting.

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