Apple Blondies

These Apple Blondies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a tender texture and the warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, they make an excellent dessert or snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these blondies fulfill all your dessert desires. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and deliciously versatile, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these blondies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them plain, topped with caramel sauce, or warm with vanilla ice cream for different delightful experiences.
• Perfect for Sharing: These blondies cut into large squares are perfect for sharing at parties or potlucks.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a holiday feast, these apple blondies fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best apple blondies, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 inch baking pan: The perfect size to create thick blondies that bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a light batter by incorporating air into the mixture.

Ingredients

These apple blondies are soft and tender with a delicious apple spice flavor thanks to the cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. They’re quick and easy to make and taste delicious with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

For the Blondie Base

• 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 the oven to 350F (180C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang around the sides. Alternatively, lightly grease the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core the apple. Then slice into small chunks. You should end up with about 3/4 to 1 cup sliced apple. Toss the sliced apple with the 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside. Do not use more than 1 cup of chopped apple.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, additional 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

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.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Whisk the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture until you no longer see lumps or streaks of flour.

Step 7: Fold in Apples

Gently fold the cinnamon apples into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Spread Batter in Pan

Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer using a spatula.

Step 9: Bake Blondies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes or until the top looks set and an inserted toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Allow the blondies to cool fully. When ready to slice, lift them out of the pan using the overhang of parchment paper. If you greased the pan, then slice directly in it.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Blondies!

How to Serve Apple Blondies

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

A La Mode

• Serve warm apple blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a sweet touch by drizzling caramel sauce over the top. It complements the apple flavor beautifully.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each blondie with a dollop of whipped cream for an airy, light addition that balances the richness.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit, like pears or berries, to add a refreshing element to your dessert plate.

Dusting with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust the blondies with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finishing touch that looks great.

How to Perfect Apple Blondies

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your apple blondies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense blondies. Mix just until combined for a light and tender result.
• Check oven temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
• Cool before slicing: Allow blondies to cool completely before slicing to maintain their shape and prevent them from falling apart.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Blondies

Pairing apple blondies with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Ice Cream: This creamy treat adds warmth and spice, enhancing the apple flavor of the blondies.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balance to the rich sweetness of the blondies.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce can add a luscious layer that pairs wonderfully with the apple spice profile.
4. Caramelized Nuts: Crunchy caramelized nuts offer texture and a sweet contrast against the soft blondie base.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory-sweet combination when served alongside.
6. Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea complement the warmth of the apple blondies beautifully, making for a cozy pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your apple blondies even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much apple: Adding more than 1 cup of chopped apple can make the blondies too moist. Stick to the recommended amount for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using packed flour instead of spooned flour can lead to dry blondies. Always spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into the blondies while they are still warm can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely for clean slices.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out your blondies. Keep an eye on them, and test with a toothpick around the 22-minute mark.
• Not mixing properly: Failing to combine ingredients well can result in uneven texture. Mix until just combined, avoiding lumps but not overdoing it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store apple blondies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Blondies

• Wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Blondies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time for about 15-20 seconds, checking that it’s warmed through without becoming tough.
• Stovetop: Place a blondie in a skillet over low heat, cover it, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apple Blondies?

Apple blondies are soft, chewy dessert bars made with apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. They have a rich flavor profile similar to brownies but use apples for added sweetness and moisture.

How do I ensure my Apple Blondies turn out soft?

To keep your apple blondies soft, avoid overbaking them. Start checking for doneness around 22 minutes, ensuring they remain moist inside.

Can I customize my Apple Blondies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or swap out spices according to your preference. Consider adding walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

What should I serve with Apple Blondies?

Apple blondies pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce elevates their flavor even more!

Final Thoughts

These apple blondies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Their tender texture combined with warm cinnamon makes them a perfect treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or drizzling melted chocolate on top!