Ingredients
Frangipane
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1/4 teaspoon almond flavoring
- 1/4 teaspoon orange zest (optional but helps elevate the croissant blondies)
- 2/3 cup almond flour
- pinch of salt
Blondies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon almond flavoring
- 2 teaspoon vanilla 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 to ensure easy removal of the blondies later.
- Make the Frangipane: In a bowl, cream together 4 tablespoons softened butter and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then mix in the egg yolk, orange zest, vanilla paste, and almond flavoring until well combined. Finally, fold in the pinch of salt and 2/3 cup almond flour until a smooth paste forms. Set this almond frangipane mixture aside.
- Prepare the Blondie Batter: In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup packed light brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and almond flavoring, mixing until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/3 cup almond flour. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Assemble the Blondies: Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the almond frangipane over the top, then use a wooden skewer or knife to swirl the frangipane through the blondie batter for a marbled effect. Sprinkle 1/2 cup sliced almonds evenly over the surface.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and golden, and the center is slightly firm but still moist.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Dust the top with powdered sugar, then slice into 16 squares for serving.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs to ensure proper mixing and texture.
- The orange zest in the frangipane adds a subtle brightness that enhances the almond flavor but is optional.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to prevent tough blondies.
- Allow blondies to cool completely for clean slicing and better texture.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American