As I sift through my pantry, an unexpected treasure catches my eye: a bag of malted milk balls. It hits me—why not turn this beloved candy into a dreamy dessert? That’s how my Malted Milk Ball Blondies came to life, merging the soft, chewy bliss of traditional blondies with the delightful crunch and flavor of malted milk balls. This easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the ideal solution for satisfying those sweet cravings without complicated steps. Plus, these nut-free blondies are sure to please a crowd, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Curious about how to whip up this irresistible treat? Let’s dive in!
Why are malted milk ball blondies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The unique combination of malted milk balls and rich butter brings a nostalgic taste that transforms classic blondies into something extraordinary.
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth.
Nut-Free Delight: These blondies are perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy them without worry.
Versatile Treat: Feel free to get creative! Try adding chocolate chips or peanut butter cups for a fun twist.
Perfect Texture: Expect a delightful balance of soft and chewy with a satisfying crunch—truly a crowd-pleaser!
Pair these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a nice cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy experience.
Malted Milk Ball Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondie Base
- Malted Milk Balls – Adds unique flavor and crunchy texture; use any brand for delicious results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the blondies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a GF option.
- Malted Milk Powder – Enhances the malt flavor; omit for less maltiness or substitute with instant milk powder.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; regular salt works just as well.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a caramel flavor; can be swapped for granulated sugar for a firmer texture.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients while adding moisture; use flaxseed meal or an egg replacer for a vegan alternative.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to flavor; consider almond extract for a different twist.
For the Topping
- Chopped Malted Milk Balls – Use for sprinkling on top before baking; enhances that delightful crunch in every bite.
Feel ready to bake these glorious Malted Milk Ball Blondies? Let’s get that oven preheating and make something truly unforgettable!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Malted Milk Ball Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with baking spray or butter. This step ensures your Malted Milk Ball Blondies will release easily after baking. Set the prepared pan aside, ready for the delicious batter.
Step 2: Chop the Malted Milk Balls
Coarsely chop 1 cup of the malted milk balls to incorporate into the batter, creating delightful bursts of flavor. For an extra crunchy topping, finely chop another ½ cup of malted milk balls and set it aside. This will add a delicious texture on top of your blondies once they are baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of malted milk powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Combining these dry ingredients evenly is essential for the perfect consistency in your Malted Milk Ball Blondies. Once blended, set the bowl aside as you move on to the wet mixture.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. This creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air, which contributes to the soft, chewy texture of your blondies.
Step 5: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack a large egg into the butter-sugar mixture and add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix well for another minute until fully combined, ensuring the egg binds the ingredients together. This step adds moisture and depth of flavor to your Malted Milk Ball Blondies.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry mixture from Step 3 into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon. Add in the coarsely chopped malted milk balls, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to preserve that soft blondie texture while ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 7: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into your greased 8×8-inch pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure the top is smooth to encourage even baking, then sprinkle the remaining finely chopped malted milk balls over the top. This will create a lovely, crunchy topping that enhances the deliciousness of your dessert.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 23 minutes. Check for doneness by looking for slightly golden edges while the center remains soft; it should not look wet. This gentle baking creates that ideal sweet spot between chewy and soft for your Malted Milk Ball Blondies.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial for achieving clean, even slices. Once cooled, cut into 16 squares and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Malted Milk Ball Blondies!
Expert Tips for Malted Milk Ball Blondies
-
Underbake:: Slightly underbake your blondies to achieve that perfect gooey center. They should appear soft in the middle when you take them out.
-
Smooth Mixing: Use an electric mixer for the butter and sugar to avoid any graininess, ensuring a velvety smooth texture in your blondies.
-
Cool Completely: Allow the blondies to cool fully in the pan before slicing. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from crumbling.
-
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, consider reducing the brown sugar slightly. It will still yield wonderfully chewy Malted Milk Ball Blondies without compromising flavor.
-
Personalize Your Blondies: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try mixing in chocolate chips or nuts to customize your blondies to your taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Malted Milk Ball Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks who love to prep ahead! You can mix together the dry ingredients (flour, malted milk powder, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can chop the malted milk balls ahead of time, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepped dry ingredients with the wet mixture and bake as directed. This will save you precious time during the week while ensuring your blondies are just as delicious when served fresh from the oven!
What to Serve with Malted Milk Ball Blondies
Indulging in these delightful blondies is just the beginning; discover the perfect pairings to create a memorable meal.
-
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, sweet creaminess of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the chewy texture of the blondies, enriching each bite.
-
Fresh Berries: Served alongside strawberries or raspberries, the tartness cuts through the sweetness, offering a refreshing balance to your dessert experience.
-
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the blondies elevates the dessert to a whole new level of decadence, inviting an easy-going indulgence.
-
Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup of coffee or a rich espresso enhances the flavors of malted milk, making it an ideal companion for your sweet treat.
-
Caramel Sauce: The buttery sweetness of caramel sauce drizzled over the blondies adds another layer of flavor and gooeyness, making each bite more enticing.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a delightful contrast to the chewy blondies, bringing a touch of elegance to your dessert platter.
These pairings offer delightful textures and flavors, ensuring your Malted Milk Ball Blondies shine even brighter at your next gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Malted Milk Ball Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your Malted Milk Ball Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them soft and chewy for everyday enjoyment.
Fridge: If you prefer a colder treat or need to extend their life, refrigerate the blondies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: To freeze your blondies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Place in a zip-top bag for additional protection against freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring a delightful dessert is always on hand.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the blondies overnight in the fridge and warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving, allowing the soft, chewy texture to shine.
Malted Milk Ball Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Malted Milk Ball Blondies—there are so many delightful ways to customize this easy recipe!
-
Peanut Butter Cups: Substitute malted milk balls for peanut butter cups for a rich, nutty flavor that takes the dessert to another level.
-
Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips to satisfy the sweet tooth, creating a fudgy twist to the traditional blondie.
-
Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for some exciting crunch and a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the maltiness.
-
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, switch the unsalted butter with coconut oil, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips if you add more chocolate.
-
Different Flavors: Play around with flavors by adding in almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty aroma that will surprise your palate.
-
Oreo Blondies: Crumble Oreo cookies into the batter for a fun spin that combines the classic flavors of blondies and cookies and cream!
-
Spicy Kick: For an adventurous twist, sprinkle in a bit of cayenne or chili powder. The heat balances beautifully with the sweetness of the blondies.
-
Serve it Up: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve as a warm dessert with a drizzle of Pumpkin Spice Milk to bring an extra layer of creaminess.
Let your imagination run wild with these variations, and don’t hesitate to combine a few for a surprise spin on your new favorite treat! Happy baking!
Malted Milk Ball Blondies Recipe FAQs
What type of malted milk balls should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any brand of malted milk balls for this recipe. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using crushed cookies as a substitute. The key is to have that delightful crunch and rich flavor that complements the blondie base.
How should I store my Malted Milk Ball Blondies?
Store your Malted Milk Ball Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This method keeps them wonderfully soft and chewy. If you find you need a bit more time, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last for a week—just let them come back to room temperature before indulging!
Can I freeze Malted Milk Ball Blondies, and how?
Yes, you can! To ensure they stay fresh, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag—this protects against freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to 3 months and enjoy the luxury of having a sweet treat ready whenever the craving strikes! To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight and gently warm in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked experience.
What if my blondies are too dry after baking?
Very! If you find that your blondies are dry, it may be due to overbaking. To avoid this, always check them a minute or two before the suggested baking time—look for a slightly soft center and golden edges. If you did overbake, you can rescue the dessert by serving it with a scoop of ice cream or drizzling it with a bit of warm chocolate sauce, adding moisture and flavor.
Are Malted Milk Ball Blondies safe for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! These blondies are nut-free, making them a great choice for gatherings where allergies are a concern. Just be cautious if anyone in your group has sensitivities to chocolate or dairy, as the malted milk balls contain those ingredients. Feel free to substitute with allergy-friendly options to make it work for everyone!
Malted Milk Ball Blondies: Your New Favorite Chewy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with baking spray or butter.
- Coarsely chop 1 cup of the malted milk balls. Finely chop another ½ cup for topping.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of malted milk powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Cream together 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the mixture, mixing well.
- Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and add in the coarsely chopped malted milk balls.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the finely chopped malted milk balls on top.
- Bake for 20 to 23 minutes until golden at the edges and soft in the center.
- Cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares.
Leave a Reply