1cup(2 sticks or 226 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
1 ½cups(300 g) light brown sugar, packed
2large eggs, room temperature
1tablespoonpure vanilla extract
1cup(13 oz jar) Nutella¹
½teaspooncoarse salt for sprinkling on top, (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line an 9x9 baking dish with parchment paper and spray with nonstick spray. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, mix together melted butter and brown sugar using a whisk. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until combined. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and stir by hand just until combined.
Pour half the batter into prepared pan and use the rubber spatula to evenly spread the top. Pour Nutella over the bottom layer of batter (see notes). Spread evenly with an offset spatula. Use a large spoon to spread dollops of remaining batter over the NUtella. Use a rubber spatula to spread smooth.
Bake at 350° F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is shiny and cracked, and feels firm to the touch. Sprinkle with sea salt immediately and cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into 1 1/2 by 1 1/2-inch bars and serve.
Notes
Nutella: I find it helpful to warm the Nutella slightly before pouring. Either transfer to a bowl and microwave for 15 seconds or make sure the foil top is completely removed from the jar and microwave Nutella in the jar for 15 seconds.Layering Nutella blondies: In order to spread the top layer of blondie batter while keeping the Nutella intact, place dollops of batter on top of the Nutella layer and use an offset spatula to connect the dollops and spread evenly (as opposed to one giant glob of batter in the center of the Nutella :)Storing Nutella blondies: Nutella blondies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. These blondies are very soft and full of gooey goodness. Resist the urge to cut them when they come out of the oven or shortly after. Allow them to cool completely. This may take up to three hours.