Imagine walking through the vibrant markets of Jaipur, where the air is infused with the aromas of spices, sweets, and the warm sun kissing your skin. Each stall presents a colorful display of ingredients, and your senses are tantalized by the excitement of flavors waiting to be explored. Inspired by this rich cultural tapestry, I created these Coconut Cardamom Blondie Bars, which bring together the nutty sweetness of blondies with the exotic touch of coconut and cardamom.
These bars are easy to prepare, visually stunning, and bursting with flavors that transport you straight to the heart of India.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or cashews work beautifully)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the shredded coconut, white chocolate chips, and chopped nuts, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the blondies out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars, and serve these delightful treats to friends and family.
These Coconut Cardamom Blondie Bars are perfect for any occasion, bringing the exotic flavors of India to your dessert table. Enjoy them with a cup of chai, or simply savor the sweet, nutty taste that captures the essence of my travels.