Hot Fudge and Salted Caramel Blondies

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines rich, gooey indulgence with the buttery goodness of a classic treat, look no further than these Hot Fudge and Salted Caramel Blondies. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, with the velvety hot fudge melting into the tender blondie base, and the salted caramel sauce adding just the right hint of complexity. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a decadent treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. Plus, the recipe is simple and uses pantry staples that come together in just one bowl, making it as approachable as it is irresistible.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The magic of these Hot Fudge and Salted Caramel Blondies lies in their texture and flavor harmony. Blondies are naturally buttery and chewy, but when you swirl in homemade hot fudge and drizzle salted caramel, you elevate them to a whole new level of dessert sophistication. The contrast between the rich chocolate fudge and the salted sweetness of the caramel creates layers of flavor that keep every bite exciting. Cooks love this recipe because it’s straightforward, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. Plus, these blondies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying as a luxurious weeknight treat.

What Goes In

• 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 stick, melted – the foundation for that tender, rich texture
• 1 large egg – binds everything together perfectly
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed – adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – brings warmth and depth to the batter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base structure of the blondies
• Pinch of salt (optional, to taste) – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors
• About 1/3 cup 10-Minute Homemade Hot Fudge – for that luscious chocolate layer
• About 1/3 cup Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce – adds a perfect salty-sweet drizzle

Gear Up: What to Grab

• 8×8 inch baking pan – ideal size for these blondies to bake evenly
• Mixing bowl – for combining your ingredients with ease
• Whisk or wooden spoon – helps mix the batter smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions
• Spatula – to fold in the hot fudge and caramel without losing texture
• Cooling rack – to let your blondies cool perfectly before slicing

Hot Fudge and Salted Caramel Blondies: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This prep step ensures your blondies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should look glossy and a bit thick, setting the stage for a tender blondie.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the all-purpose flour and salt (if using) into the wet mixture. Gently fold them in with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your blondie batter to stay light and slightly thick.

Step 4: Layer the Batter

Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Spoon dollops of 10-Minute Homemade Hot Fudge and the Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce over this first layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the sauces into the batter, creating beautiful marbled pockets of flavor.

Step 5: Add Remaining Batter and Repeat

Spread the remaining blondie batter over the swirled layer. Again, add spoonfuls of hot fudge and salted caramel on top and swirl lightly. This layering technique ensures every bite has a luscious hit of both sauces.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging. Avoid overbaking to keep your blondies chewy and moist.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your Hot Fudge and Salted Caramel Blondies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy the melty, chewy goodness.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Fall: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for a cozy twist.
• Winter: Top with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and warmth.
• Spring: Stir in fresh raspberries or swirl in lemon curd alongside the caramel for a bright pop.
• Summer: Serve warm blondie squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake sauce for a cool, refreshing treat.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• Using melted butter rather than softened butter creates a denser, fudgier blondie texture.
• Light brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that pairs perfectly with the salted caramel drizzle.
• The pinch of salt is optional but highly recommended; it balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate and caramel flavors beautifully.
• Swirling the hot fudge and caramel into the batter instead of mixing them completely keeps the blondies visually stunning and texturally exciting.

Best Ways to Store

Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. If refrigerated, bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to enjoy that gooey texture. You can also freeze the blondies, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Your Top Questions

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes! While light brown sugar is preferred for its moisture and flavor, you can substitute with coconut sugar or dark brown sugar. Just note that darker sugars will deepen the caramel notes, while coconut sugar will add a subtle nuttiness.

Can I make these blondies dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil to keep the texture rich and moist without dairy.

How do I make the 10-Minute Homemade Hot Fudge?

The hot fudge is a simple sauce made by melting together cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and a splash of milk or cream, cooked until thickened. It’s quick to prepare and adds that luxurious chocolate element to the blondies.

What if I don’t have homemade salted caramel sauce?

You can use store-bought salted caramel sauce, but homemade is recommended for the freshest flavor. For a quick homemade version, gently melt sugar until amber, add butter, and finish with a pinch of sea salt and cream or a dairy-free alternative.

More from the Kitchen

• Try the buttery and tender Brown Sugar Cinnamon Shortbread for a simple yet flavorful cookie option.
• If you love caramel, the Salted Maple Butter Bars are another caramel-infused treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• For a fruity twist on caramel desserts, the Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is a must-bake this season.

Let’s Eat

These Hot Fudge and Salted Caramel Blondies are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm so the hot fudge and caramel remain delightfully gooey. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. Whether you’re sharing with friends, gifting to family, or keeping them all to yourself, these blondies deliver a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s sure to impress. So grab that baking pan, swirl in the sauces, and dive into the perfect balance of hot fudge and salted caramel bliss. You deserve every delicious bite.

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