Ingredients
Frangipane
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1/4 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- 2/3 cup almond flour
- pinch of salt
Blondie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 & 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (to top the blondies)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Make the Frangipane: In a bowl, cream together 4 tablespoons of butter and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth and combined. Mix in the egg yolk, orange zest, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean paste until well incorporated. Fold in a pinch of salt and 2/3 cup almond flour until a smooth paste forms. Set this frangipane mixture aside.
- Prepare the Blondie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup packed light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Add in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste; mix until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together 1 & 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/3 cup almond flour. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the blondies tender.
- Assemble Blonde Batter and Frangipane: Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared 8×8 inch baking pan. Dollop the almond frangipane mixture on top in several spots, then swirl it gently into the batter using a wooden skewer or knife to create a marble effect. Sprinkle 1/2 cup sliced almonds evenly over the top for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the edges are set and golden brown and the center is slightly firm to the touch but still moist.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan to set properly. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a delicate sweetness and cut into 16 equal squares before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract for a more intense vanilla aroma.
- The orange zest is optional but adds a lovely citrus brightness that pairs well with almonds.
- Do not over-mix the batter to avoid dense blondies; mix just until combined.
- Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature to help with smooth mixing and better texture.
- A wooden skewer helps create beautiful swirls in the frangipane without over-blending.
- Allow blondies to cool fully before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American