Irresistible Apple Blondies Recipe for Cozy Nights
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, gooey dessert that fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples. That’s exactly what these Apple Blondies bring to the table! They are soft, tender, and packed with delicious flavors that make them not only a delightful treat but also a perfect addition to any gathering or cozy night in. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.
The best part? These Apple Blondies are quick and easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these delightful squares ready for sharing (or not) in under an hour!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Perfectly spiced flavor: The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg gives these blondies a warm, inviting taste that feels like a hug in dessert form.
– Quick to prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these baking while you enjoy your favorite activities.
– Crowd-pleaser: These blondies are great for parties, potlucks, or just enjoying at home with family. Everyone will want to grab another piece!
– Versatile serving options: Enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
– Easy storage: Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored easily for snacking later in the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect Apple Blondies. You might already have many of these staples in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:
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
Variations
One of the best things about baking is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these Apple Blondies by trying out some of these variations:
– Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
– Change the fruit: Swap out apples for pears or even peaches for a different fruity flair.
– Experiment with spices: Try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice for an extra depth of flavor.
– Top it off: Sprinkle some chocolate chips on top before baking for a delicious twist.
How to Make Apple Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang around the sides. This makes it easier to lift out the blondies once they’ve cooled down. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the pan instead.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel and core the apple before slicing it into small chunks. You should end up with about 3/4 to 1 cup of sliced apple. Toss those apple chunks with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and set aside. This step ensures that each bite is bursting with that lovely apple flavor!
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, an additional 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. It’s important to combine these dry ingredients well so that every bite has balanced flavors.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until you no longer see pools of melted butter. This creates a rich base for your blondies. Then add in the egg and vanilla extract—whisk until everything is nicely combined.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture until you no longer see lumps or streaks of flour. Gently fold in those cinnamon-coated apple chunks; this step adds texture and flavor throughout your blondies.
Step 6: Bake Your 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. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the top looks set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your blondies to cool completely. When you’re ready to slice them up, use that parchment paper overhang to lift them out onto a cutting board if you lined the pan. If not, simply slice them directly in the pan. Enjoy these deliciously spiced Apple Blondies as they are or drizzle them with warm caramel sauce for an extra treat!
Pro Tips for Making Apple Blondies
Making apple blondies can be a delightful experience, especially with these simple tips to elevate your baking game. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these pro tips will help you achieve the perfect batch of blondies every time.
– Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples add the best flavor and texture to your blondies. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
– Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so make sure to measure your ingredients precisely. Using a kitchen scale can ensure you’re getting the exact amounts needed for the perfect consistency.
– Don’t overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of the desired soft and tender texture.
– Let them cool: Allow your blondies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them firm up, making it easier to cut into neat squares without crumbling.
– Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. A pinch of cloves or cardamom can give your blondies an extra flavor boost!
How to Serve Apple Blondies
Serving your apple blondies can be as fun as making them! These treats are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present them for any occasion.
Garnishes
– Drizzle with caramel sauce: A warm drizzle of caramel adds an irresistible sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apple flavor.
– Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top gives a lovely finish and makes them look extra special.
Side Dishes
– Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the blondies perfectly.
– Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that contrasts nicely with the dense blondies.
– Fresh fruit: Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like pears or berries for a refreshing contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re planning ahead, these apple blondies are great for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy their deliciousness later. Here’s how to store them properly:
Storing Leftovers
– Keep in an airtight container: To maintain freshness, store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
– Refrigerate for longer shelf life: If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll last about a week.
Freezing
– Wrap tightly: Cut the cooled blondies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Enjoy later: Frozen apple blondies can last up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Reheating
– Warm in the microwave: For a quick treat, pop a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
– Oven option: Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350F (180C) for about 5 minutes for that freshly baked taste!
FAQs
Have questions about making apple blondies? Here are some common queries answered!
Can I use other fruits?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on apples, feel free to experiment with other fruits like pears or even add nuts for extra crunch.
How do I know when my blondies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1-to-1, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free apple blondies.
Final Thoughts
Baking these apple blondies is not just about creating a sweet treat; it’s about sharing joy and warmth with those you love. I hope you give this recipe a try—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and everyone will be asking for seconds! Enjoy every delicious bite!
