These Apple Blondies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of apples with warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting dessert, these blondies offer a soft and tender texture paired with a rich apple spice flavor. Their deliciousness is enhanced by the addition of caramel sauce, creating an irresistible dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute dessert cravings.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a warm and comforting taste that is sure to please.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these blondies as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.
- Perfect for Sharing: With nine large squares in each batch, they’re great for sharing at potlucks or family gatherings.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you can whip up these blondies without a special trip to the grocery store.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, gather some essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and helps achieve that nice golden crust on the blondies.
- Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the blondies once cooled, allowing for clean cuts.
- Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized and prevents cross-contamination during mixing.
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 350F (180C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang around the sides. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel and core the apple. Slice it into small chunks. You should end up with about 3/4 to 1 cup of sliced apple. Toss the sliced apple with the 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, additional 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until there are no pools of melted butter visible.
Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla
Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture until well combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Stir the flour mixture into the wet mixture until no lumps or streaks of flour remain.
Step 7: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the cinnamon apples into your batter until evenly distributed.
Step 8: Bake Blondies
Spoon the batter into your prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes or until the top looks set. An inserted toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow your blondies to cool fully in the pan. When ready to slice, lift them out using the overhang from parchment paper onto a cutting board. If you greased your pan, slice them while still in it.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Blondies, perfectly suited for any occasion!
How to Serve Apple Blondies
Apple blondies are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
A La Mode
- Serve warm apple blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing. The cold ice cream melts into the warm blondies, creating a delightful contrast.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a rich touch by drizzling caramel sauce over the top. This sweet addition enhances the apple spice flavor and makes each bite even more indulgent.
With Whipped Cream
- Top your apple blondies with a dollop of whipped cream. It adds a light, airy texture that complements the dense blondies beautifully.
Accompanied by Coffee
- Pair these blondies with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm spices in the blondies enhance the flavors of your favorite beverage, making it an excellent afternoon treat.
Sliced and Served Cold
- For a refreshing twist, slice the blondies and serve them cold. This option is perfect for warm days or as part of a picnic spread.
How to Perfect Apple Blondies
To achieve the best apple blondies, consider these helpful tips for success.
- Use fresh apples: Fresh apples provide better flavor and moisture than older ones. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness and tartness.
- Measure ingredients accurately: Ensure precise measurements of flour and sugar to avoid affecting the texture of your blondies. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
- Do not overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies.
- Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs to ensure they are perfectly baked.
- Cool completely before slicing: Allow the blondies to cool fully in the pan before slicing. This step helps them set and makes cutting easier.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Blondies
Apple blondies can be enhanced with tasty side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside your dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the spiced flavors of the blondies.
- Caramel Sauce: Rich caramel sauce brings sweetness and depth, perfect for drizzling on top.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the flavors in apple blondies, creating a cozy dessert experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light contrast to the richness of the blondies while enhancing their fruity notes.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs nicely with sweet desserts, providing a savory balance.
- Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix can add texture and flavor contrasts, making each bite exciting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making apple blondies can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.
- Incorrect Apple Preparation: Using too much apple or not cutting it small enough can lead to uneven baking. Stick to about 3/4 to 1 cup of finely chopped apple for the best texture.
- Not Measuring Flour Properly: Scooping flour directly from the container can compact it, leading to dry blondies. Use a spoon to fluff the flour and scoop it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much creates tough blondies. Stir until just combined; some lumps are okay!
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking pan may cause sticking. Always line with parchment or grease it well for easy removal.
- Baking for Too Long: Overbaking can dry out your blondies. Start checking at 22 minutes; they should be set but still soft in the center.
- Neglecting Flavor Additions: Forgetting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg might dull the flavor. Don’t skip these key ingredients for that warm, cozy taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Blondies
- Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Blondies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one blondie on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making apple blondies.
Can I use different types of apples for Apple Blondies?
Yes, any type of apple works! Choose sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for added flavor.
How do I make my Apple Blondies more chewy?
To enhance chewiness, slightly reduce the baking time and ensure not to overmix the batter.
Are these Apple Blondies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make them gluten-free.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Apple Blondies?
Certainly! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add delightful texture and flavor.
How do I know when my Apple Blondies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!
What is the best way to serve Apple Blondies?
They are delicious served warm with caramel sauce drizzled on top or alongside vanilla ice cream!
Final Thoughts
These apple blondies are not only soft and tender but also packed with delightful flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. They are simple to prepare and offer plenty of customization options—add nuts, use different spices, or drizzle with caramel sauce. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious dessert that everyone will love!
Apple Blondies
Indulge in the delightful world of Apple Blondies, a soft and tender dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of apples with warm spices. These blondies are quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or simply satisfying a sweet craving. The rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar mingle beautifully with chunks of fresh apple, creating a comforting treat everyone will love. With just a drizzle of caramel sauce on top, these Apple Blondies become an irresistible dessert that is sure to impress.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about nine servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 apple
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Peel, core, and chop the apple into small chunks, then toss with cinnamon and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, additional cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cinnamon apples until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 22-25 minutes until set.
- Let cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 blondie (50g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg