Blondies are what I make whenever I have to bring dessert to an event, but really don't have the time or energy to worry about it. Because they're pretty much a blank canvas, blondies are a total crowd–pleaser and it takes very little effort to make them seem special with a few fun mix ins. With no mixer or chilling required, you'll have these out of the oven within a half hour of deciding to make them.

Adapted from Cook's Illustrated.

Ingredients:

• 1 and 1/2 cup (212g) all purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• Pinch of salt

• 12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 and 1/2 cup (300g) brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 4 teaspoons vanilla extract (a lot!)

• Chocolate chips to taste (1–2 cups)

• Lightly crushed pretzels to taste (about 1 cup)

• Flaky sea salt for garnish

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a 9x13" baking tin with aluminum foil (leave overhang for easy release), and spray with nonstick baking spray.

2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl; set aside.

3. Whisk the butter and brown sugar together in a large mixing bowl very well. Add the eggs one at a time and whisk very well. Mix in the vanilla extract.

4. Dump the dry ingredients over the wet, use a rubber spatula to fold them in. Fold in the chocolate and pretzels.

5. Spread the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle with flaky salt. Bake for 22-25 minutes, until lightly golden brown and dry on top. Let cool at least a half hour before lifting out to a cutting board.