Blueberry Walnut Blondie Bars

Blondies are a relatively recent discovery for me, but once I tried them, there was no going back. I especially love them with fruit, and the flavors in these blueberry walnut blondie bars are simply superb. The juicy blueberries, buttery walnuts, and chewy cookie bar edges make these a must-try dessert bar!

These blueberry blondies are especially perfect for late spring and summer (when blueberries are in season here in the U.S.), but you can usually find ripe blueberries year-round. Which is fortunate, because you definitely shouldn’t wait to try these delicious bars! 😉

Walnut Bars with Blueberries

The first blondie recipe on my blog, these raspberry almond blondies, was an instant favorite of mine (and my husband). They’re so full of bright berry and luxurious almond flavor, not to mention the out-of-this-world texture. But I may have quite possibly outdone myself with this blueberry walnut version!

These blondies taste like a cross between a blueberry muffin and sugar cookie, with moist centers and chewy edges. The walnuts get all toasty and add a delicious hint of nutty flavor.

I love how easy these are, too. There’s no electric mixer needed – just a good old-fashioned whisk and mixing bowl!

What’s a blondie?

A blondie is similar to a brownie, but without the chocolate – kind of like a cookie bar, but more cakey in the middle. On its own, it has a buttery vanilla flavor, so it lends itself to tons of tasty flavor variations!

I use brown sugar in my blondies for a light caramel flavor, too. Plus, it yields a more fudgy texture, which is definitely what we’re after here!

(If you’re looking for a brownie recipe, these peanut butter banana brownies are delish!)

Recipe Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these blueberry walnut bars:

• flour: All-purpose flour gives us a soft and chewy texture.
• butter: Melted butter helps bind the ingredients, enhances the flavor, and makes the bars deliciously moist.
• brown sugar: I prefer brown sugar over white sugar in blondies, for a hint of caramel flavor and a fudgy texture. You can substitute white sugar if needed, though.
• eggs: We’re using one egg and one egg yolk to give the bars rise and structure. Using the egg yolk (in addition to one full egg) is important for the right texture.
• vanilla extract: For that essential rich vanilla flavor.
• baking powder: To give the bars rise and structure.
• blueberries: For sweet and juicy bursts of flavor! Their sweetness pairs perfectly with the buttery, toasty walnuts.
• walnuts: These add crunch and a nutty flavor. They’re a delicious match for the blueberries, but you can use almonds or pecans instead if you’d like!
• salt: For flavor enhancement and balance.

Have leftover blueberries? Try these baked blueberry glazed donuts or these blueberry white chocolate muffins!

How to Make Blueberry Walnut Blondie Bars

You’ll need an 8×8 inch square baking pan for these. (Or, you can make a double batch in a 9×13 inch pan, but the baking times may vary). Grease or spray the pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, making sure the paper sticks to the sides of the pan.

Next, make the batter! Melt butter in the microwave, then combine it with the brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Whisk vigorously for a minute (this helps create that lovely, crackly top!).

Once the mixture is cooled to room temperature, add in vanilla extract, egg, and egg yolk. Whisk vigorously again until smooth.

In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt). Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a spatula. (I recommend sifting in the dry ingredients to prevent lumps). Stir until it’s mostly combined – we’ll finish stirring in the next step.

Very carefully fold in the blueberries and walnuts (you don’t want the blueberries to burst, or you’ll get purple batter). The batter should no longer have any flour streaks at this point.

Use the spatula to scoop the batter into your lined baking pan. Smooth it out on top, then sprinkle on additional blueberries and walnuts if desired.

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs, and the edges and top are golden brown. (See detailed baking times in the recipe card at the end of this post.)

Blondie Baking Tips

A few tips to make sure your blondie bars turn out perfect:

• Grease the baking pan before adding the parchment paper (so it sticks better)
• Use room-temperature eggs (set them out on the counter ahead of time)
• Be sure to whisk the hot melted butter and brown sugar vigorously to get that crackly top
• Make sure the butter/sugar mixture has cooled somewhat before adding the eggs
• Be gentle when folding in the blueberries
• When smoothing out your batter in the pan, make sure it reaches all the way to the edges and corners

How to Slice Blondies

First, let the bars cool completely. Using the parchment paper, lift the blondies from the pan. Run a large knife under hot water, then wipe it dry and use it to slice the blondies.

For easier/cleaner slicing, transfer the blondies to the fridge – once they’re fully cooled – and let them chill for 20-30 more minutes before slicing.

Storage Tips for Blueberry Walnut Bars

Once they’re fully cooled, store these in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor and texture may be better if stored at room temp.

One caveat: for the absolute best chewy texture and crispy edges, these are best enjoyed the same day they’re made, if possible. But don’t worry, they’ll still taste delicious even after a few days!

You might also enjoy these almond butter cookie bars or these pecan sweet potato bars!

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Frozen blueberries should work here, but I recommend thawing them first and drying them very well with a paper towel. Otherwise, they may give off too much moisture when baked.

Recipe Variations & Toppings

Want to try something a little different? Here are some ways to switch up this recipe:

• Top the bars with a drizzle of melted white chocolate or powdered sugar/icing
• Add shredded coconut to the batter or on top
• Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts
• Add lemon zest
• Add chocolate chips (any kind!)

I’m suddenly inspired to go blueberry picking…probably so I have an excuse to make these again! 🙂

If you make these blueberry walnut blondie bars, I’d love if you shared your thoughts with a rating and comment below.

More dessert recipes with fruit:

• Peanut Butter Banana Brownies
• Chocolate Nutella Strawberry Bites
• Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake Cups
• Dark Chocolate Filled Raspberries with Coconut
• Iced Lemon Mascarpone Cookies
• Berry Coconut Tarts with Yogurt