'Tahiti' Blondies

Often when the request for some sort of dessert is made, it's later in the day (of course) it needs to be quick. 'Tahiti' Blondies are often the answer. These freeze really nicely so I usually make a double batch and put some in the freezer. I actually divide it up into enough for one 'dessert' for each of us. Being able to pull this out of the freezer while I'm making dinner is great, the blondies will be thawed and ready to eat by the time you're finished eating the main course.

They're 'Tahiti' Blondies because they have coconut and nuts. Also because I got the general idea from Bobby Flay's Throwdown show where he challenged someone to make these. My recipe is a bit difference from the one I think he used or the original bakers' used. This is a much simpler version. See my first point about making these quickly and on short notice.

Ingredient list & quantities:

1 and ½ cups all purpose flour

1 and ½ cups light brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

¾ cup butter melted (or ¾ cup canola oil)

2 large eggs

4 teaspoons vanilla

1 cup pecans, chopped

1 and ½ cups sweetened coconut – shredded or flaked (difference is in texture of end product)

½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup white chocolate chips

½ cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350F degrees and line a 9x9 baking pan with parchment.

2. In a medium bow, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt, set aside.

3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar till combined. Add eggs, vanilla and mix well.

4. Add dry ingredients to wet.

5. Fold in pecans, coconut and choc chips (and marshmallows if using). Do not over mix. Pour into the prepared baking pan.

6. Bake for 25-28 minutes, top should be golden. Cool to room temperature before cutting.

Serves: depends who is eating it.

Date created: May 19, 2008

Notes:

• Easily doubled, if so… extend baking time to approx 35-40 mins and use a 9x13 pan.

• Add additional choc chips, pecans etc on top before baking if desired.

• Freezes well for a short period of time (2-3 weeks or less if kids find in freezer)