Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave or on the stovetop and let it cool slightly until warm and fragrant.
In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar and vanilla extract. Pour in the warm melted butter and mix until smooth and aromatic.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is glossy and slightly thickened.
Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, then gently fold with a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the blondies tender.
If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now for extra texture and flavor.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to reach all edges.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly cracked, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, allowing them to set and develop their chewy texture.
Transfer to a wire rack if you lined your pan with parchment, or leave in the pan to cool completely for cleaner slices.
Once cooled, slice into squares and serve, enjoying the warm, buttery aroma and chewy, golden crumb.