National Blonde Brownie Day, celebrated annually on January 22, is a delightful occasion dedicated to enjoying the rich, butterscotch-flavored treat known as blonde brownies or “blondies.” These golden-hued bars are made with brown sugar instead of cocoa, offering a lighter yet indulgent alternative to traditional chocolate brownies.

Quick Facts

  • When is it? January 22
  • Tagged as: Food & Drink, Snacks & Desserts
  • What’s the hashtag? #NationalBlondeBrownieDay
  • When was it founded? Unknown
  • Who founded it? Unknown

History of National Blonde Brownie Day

The origins of National Blonde Brownie Day remain unclear, but the blonde brownie itself has a rich history. It predates the chocolate brownie by about a decade, with its first recipe published in 1896 by Fannie Farmer in The Boston Cooking-School Cookbook. Initially called molasses bars, these treats became known as blonde brownies when brown sugar replaced molasses in later recipes. They gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a lighter alternative to chocolate brownies.

Timeline

  • 1896: Fannie Farmer publishes the first recipe for brownies without chocolate.
  • 1906: An updated cookbook includes both chocolate and blonde brownie recipes.
  • 1940s-1950s: Blonde brownies rise in popularity as a dessert option.
  • 1980s: The term “blondie” becomes widely used.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

YearMonth and DateDay
2025January 22Wednesday
2026January 22Thursday
2027January 22Friday
2028January 22Saturday
2029January 22Monday
2030January 22Tuesday

Observed

National Blonde Brownie Day is celebrated by baking, sharing, and indulging in these delicious bars. Many people add toppings like nuts, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce for extra flavor.

Fun Facts About Blonde Brownies

  • They are often used as a base for sundaes.
  • Congo Bars are a variation that includes chocolate chips and walnuts.
  • Blondies are more versatile than traditional brownies, with endless mix-in options.

Quiz

  1. What ingredient gives blonde brownies their butterscotch flavor?
  2. When was the first recipe for blonde brownies published?
  3. What alternative name is often used for blonde brownies?

(Answers: 1. Brown sugar; 2. 1896; 3. Blondies)

FAQs

Q: Are blonde brownies healthier than chocolate brownies?
A: Not necessarily; both are indulgent treats with similar calorie content.

Q: Can I add chocolate to blonde brownies?
A: Yes! Chocolate chips or chunks are popular add-ins.

Q: Why are they called “blonde” brownies?
A: The name comes from their light, golden color due to the use of brown sugar instead of cocoa.

Importance of National Blonde Brownie Day

This day celebrates culinary creativity and offers an opportunity to enjoy a unique dessert that stands out from traditional chocolate-based treats. It’s also a chance to bring people together over baked goods.

Related

  • National Brownie Day (December 8)
  • National Butterscotch Brownie Day (May 9)
  • National Dessert Day (October 14)