Apple Blondies

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If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s both comforting and full of cozy fall warmth, these Apple Blondies are exactly what you need. Bursting with tender chunks of cinnamon-kissed apple and baked to golden perfection, Apple Blondies offer a delightful balance between cakey and chewy that makes every bite utterly irresistible. They’re a fantastic dessert, snack, or even a sweet breakfast companion that tastes like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect Apple Blondies means starting with simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring something special to the mix, from moisture and sweetness to spice and structure.

• Apple: Adds juicy bursts of natural sweetness and a tender texture that’s the star of the show.
• Cinnamon: Infuses warm, aromatic spice that complements the apple perfectly.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and balance to the batter.
• Ground nutmeg: Lends a subtle earthiness enhancing the overall spice flavor profile.
• Baking powder: Helps the blondies rise gently, keeping them soft but set.
• Salt: Crucial for amplifying all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Offers rich moisture and a tender crumb when melted and mixed in.
• Light brown sugar: Creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness and chewy texture.
• Large egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a cozy, fragrant note.

How to Make Apple Blondies

Step 1: Prepare Your Apple

Start by peeling and coring your apple, then slice it into small, uniform chunks—aim for about 3/4 to 1 cup. Toss these pieces with half a teaspoon of cinnamon to infuse them with that classic, comforting spice. This step ensures every bite of your Apple Blondies bursts with warm, fruity goodness.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, an additional 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix is your blondie’s backbone, balancing flavor and texture perfectly when combined with the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk your melted unsalted butter with the packed light brown sugar until the mixture looks smooth, shiny, and there are no pools of melted butter left. This blend delivers richness and the perfect caramel undertone that Apple Blondies are known for.

Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Next, whisk the egg and vanilla extract right into the butter and sugar mixture. These ingredients add moisture and fragrance, turning your batter into a luscious base ready for the dry components.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet batter until you no longer see streaks or lumps of flour. Be careful to avoid overmixing; you want the batter just combined for tender results.

Step 6: Fold in the Spiced Apples

Now, carefully fold the cinnamon-tossed apple chunks into your batter, distributing them evenly without breaking up the fruit. This final step ensures each piece is dotted with juicy apple surprises.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the batter into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased, smoothing it out evenly. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 22 to 25 minutes. When the top looks set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your Apple Blondies are done and ready to cool.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the blondies to cool fully in the pan. If you used parchment, lift them out gently using the overhang and transfer to a cutting board for clean slicing. If you greased the pan, just cut them right inside. Serving slices warm or at room temperature lets the flavors shine.

How to Serve Apple Blondies

Garnishes

Apple Blondies shine on their own, but adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can take them to the next level. For extra indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a dreamy pairing that guests will love.

Side Dishes

Pair Apple Blondies with a hot cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee for an inviting snack. For a brunch twist, serve alongside whipped cream or a cinnamon-spiced yogurt dip to balance sweetness and add creamy texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For celebrations, cut the Apple Blondies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter with apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a charming autumnal display. You can even sandwich a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese frosting between two blondie squares to make mini dessert sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple Blondies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Their flavor often becomes even more pronounced as they rest, making leftovers just as delightful as fresh.

Freezing

If you want to save them longer, wrap individual blondie squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet treat.

Reheating

To enjoy your Apple Blondies warm again, pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or gently warm in a low oven (~300°F) for about 10 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked softness and releases the wonderful aromas.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape during baking and provide a lovely balance of tartness and sweetness.

Is it possible to make Apple Blondies gluten-free?

Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend should work fine. Just make sure your baking blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the right texture.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried cranberries make fantastic additions that add crunch and bursts of flavor to your Apple Blondies.

How do I know when the blondies are fully baked?

Look for a set top that no longer jiggles and insert a toothpick near the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

Can I halve or double the recipe?

You can easily adjust the quantities to suit your needs. Just remember to use an appropriately sized pan and adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness earlier or later as needed.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Apple Blondies that combines the best of fruit-filled desserts and rich, buttery treats. They’re straightforward to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give this recipe a go—you might just find a new favorite to bake over and over again!

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