Apple Blondies

These Apple Blondies are a delightful treat that brings together the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon and fresh apples. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a comforting dessert experience that’s quick to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these blondies will impress with their tender texture and rich flavor.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Blondies
• How to Make Apple Blondies
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Apples
• Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
• Step 5: Combine Mixtures
• Step 6: Fold in Apples
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Apple Blondies
• A La Mode
• With Whipped Cream
• With Nuts
• As Breakfast Treats
• With Fresh Fruit
• Drizzled with Chocolate
• How to Perfect Apple Blondies
• Best Side Dishes for Apple Blondies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Apple Blondies
• Reheating Apple Blondies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Apple Blondies?
• How can I customize my Apple Blondies?
• Can I use other types of apples?
• How do I know when my Apple Blondies are done?
• Are these Apple Blondies gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy freshly baked blondies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them plain, with a drizzle of caramel sauce, or topped with ice cream for an extra special treat.
• Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper makes for easy removal from the pan and less mess when serving.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these blondies are great for sharing at parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather your tools. Having everything prepared will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and helps shape the blondies perfectly.
• Parchment paper: Makes removing the blondies from the pan effortless and helps with cleanup.
• Mixing bowls: Keeps your ingredients organized while you prepare the batter.
• Whisk: Combines wet ingredients smoothly for a consistent batter.

Ingredients

For the Blondies

• 1 apple
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (141 grams)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar (156 grams) (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Apple Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Alternatively, lightly grease the pan if you prefer not to use parchment.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core the apple before slicing it into small chunks. Aim for about 3/4 to 1 cup of diced apple. Toss these apple pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to enhance their flavor. Set them aside; remember not to exceed 1 cup of chopped apple.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, an additional 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. This mixture will add structure and flavor to your blondies.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter with brown sugar. Whisk until there are no pools of melted butter left visible. Next, add in one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir in the flour mixture into your butter mixture until no lumps remain. Be careful not to overmix as this can affect the texture of your blondies.

Step 6: Fold in Apples

Gently fold the cinnamon-spiced apple chunks into your batter. This adds delightful bites of fruit throughout your blondies.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 22-25 minutes or until the top appears set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan. If you’ve used parchment paper, lift them out using the overhang to slice on a cutting board. If you greased the pan directly, slice while still in it.

Enjoy these scrumptious Apple Blondies as they are or with a drizzle of caramel sauce!

How to Serve Apple Blondies

Apple blondies are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them plain or dressed up, these serving suggestions will elevate your apple blondie experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm apple blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness and flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your apple blondies with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on the whipped cream for a festive touch.

With Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor before adding them to the dish.

As Breakfast Treats

• Enjoy apple blondies as a quick breakfast option with your morning coffee or tea.
• Pair them with yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced start to the day.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh apples or pears to complement the flavors in the blondies.
• Create a colorful fruit platter for an appealing presentation.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the blondies for an indulgent finish.
• Add sea salt on top of the chocolate drizzle for a sweet-salty combination.

How to Perfect Apple Blondies

To achieve perfect apple blondies, consider these tips. They will help you make sure each batch is soft, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples will provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tart contrast.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense blondies. Stir just until combined to keep them tender.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
• Cool Completely: Allowing the blondies to cool completely helps them set properly, making slicing easier and neater.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to increase or decrease cinnamon and nutmeg based on your taste preference. Customize it to suit your palate!
• Store Properly: Keep leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Blondies

Pairing side dishes with apple blondies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances sweetness with creaminess, enhancing every bite of apple blondie.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel adds richness and complements the spice flavors beautifully.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top provides an extra layer of flavor while keeping things simple.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with sweet desserts.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and add brightness next to rich apple blondies.
6. Cheese Plate: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese creates an interesting savory-sweet balance that intrigues the taste buds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Blondies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are some tips to ensure perfect blondies every time.

• Incorrect apple measurement: Using too many apples can make the blondies soggy. Stick to 3/4 to 1 cup of chopped apple for the best texture.
• Skipping the cinnamon toss: Not tossing the apples with cinnamon before adding them to the batter can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always coat your apple chunks for enhanced taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can cause tough blondies. Mix just until you don’t see flour streaks to keep them soft and tender.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on baking time can result in undercooked or overcooked blondies. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t blend well with sugar, affecting texture. Melt your butter first for a smooth, even mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Blondies in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will last up to 5 days if properly stored.

Freezing Apple Blondies

• Wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Apple Blondies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the blondies for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a blondie on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apple Blondies?

Apple blondies are deliciously soft dessert bars made with fresh apples, brown sugar, and spices like cinnamon, creating a warm comfort food experience.

How can I customize my Apple Blondies?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, chocolate chips, or even caramel swirls for added flavor and texture variations.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While any apple works, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp give the best flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smith can add an exciting contrast.

How do I know when my Apple Blondies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or have a few moist crumbs attached, indicating they are done baking.

Are these Apple Blondies gluten-free?

You can make gluten-free Apple Blondies by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Blondies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious! Their soft texture and delightful spice flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins for an added twist. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delightful treats!