Preheat oven to 350℉. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving some length on either end to help remove the blondies once cooked. Be sure to tuck the paper/foil into the corners of the pan. Spray parchment or foil with cooking spray. Set aside.
Place the pecans (and walnuts if using both) on a separate baking sheet, lined with foil, and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the nuts begin to have a nice aroma and turn slightly brown. Keep your eye on them so they don’t burn. Remove from oven to cool.
Blend flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl.
In a separate, larger bowl, blend butter and brown sugar until combined. Whisk in egg, vanilla and maple syrup. Blend well.
Gently fold dried into egg mixture. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread batter into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.