Mary Raper'S Blondies
Mary Raper's Blondies are chewy, nutty, and fruity bars featuring dried apricots and pecans. Their rich brown sugar flavor and moist texture make them perfect for a sweet snack or dessert. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in sifted flour, salt, and baking powder, and combine thoroughly.
- Fold in chopped dried apricots and chopped pecans.
- Spread the batter evenly in a greased shallow pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is soft and chewy.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. You can substitute dried apricots with other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins if preferred. Make sure to sift the flour as this helps achieve the desired texture. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These blondies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a slice of Cherry-Lemon Cobbler for a dessert spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which will keep them fresh for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Raper'S Blondies contains roughly 214 calories, with 1g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still turn out delicious.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses to mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar. For a healthier alternative, try coconut sugar, which will give a similar taste without refined sugar.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
The blondies are done when the edges are golden brown and the center appears soft and slightly underbaked. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, ensuring a chewy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).