Preheat the oven to 350°F and ensure a rack is in the middle position of the oven.
Line a 8" square pan with enough parchment paper to overhang the sides and make handles for lifting the blondies out.
In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter and brown sugar with a wooden spoon until well blended. Add the vanilla and salt, and stir to combine.
Next, add in the whole egg plus egg yolk; stir to combine.
Sprinkle the flour and baking powder evenly on top and fold it together. Do 50 brisk strokes with a wooden spoon to incorporate the flour and activate the gluten.
Finally, stir in any additions, like chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
Bake for 24-26 minutes. Use a toothpick to test for doneness—you don’t want the toothpick to come out dry; some moist crumbs clinging is what you’re looking for. Let the blondies cool in the pan, and then slice into 9 pieces and serve.
