Apple Blondies

These Apple Blondies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend soft, tender textures with the warm flavors of apple and spice. Quick to make and easy to share, they are ideal for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With a drizzle of caramel sauce, these blondies elevate dessert to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these blondies ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares and serve at parties or family gatherings for an instant crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain or topped with ice cream or caramel sauce for added indulgence.
• Made with Fresh Ingredients: Using real apples gives these blondies a fresh taste that sets them apart from typical desserts.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to whip up your Apple Blondies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking so your blondies come out perfectly cooked.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the pan prevents sticking and allows for easy removal of the blondies once cool.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls keeps ingredients organized while you prepare your batter.

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 Batter

• 1 apple
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (141 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 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 it into small chunks. You should end up with about 3/4 to 1 cup sliced apple. Toss the sliced apple with 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 Butter and Sugar

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 in the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until fully combined.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

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: Bake Blondies

Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Bake in the 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 Before Serving

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

Enjoy these satisfying Apple Blondies as a sweet treat that everyone will love!

How to Serve Apple Blondies

Serving apple blondies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy these sweet treats.

With Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your blondies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast that complements the apple flavor wonderfully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly dollop whipped cream on top for a fluffy, airy addition that balances out the density of the blondies.

Fresh Fruit Slices

• Serve with fresh apple slices or other seasonal fruits for a refreshing side that adds a crunchy texture.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top can add both flavor and crunch to your apple blondies, enhancing their overall enjoyment.

How to Perfect Apple Blondies

To ensure your apple blondies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples provide better moisture and flavor compared to older ones.
• Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined to keep the blondies soft and tender.
• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing them to cool helps achieve cleaner cuts and enhances their texture.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Blondies

Pairing side dishes with apple blondies can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the blondies.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Apples: Warmed apples sprinkled with cinnamon sugar make a fitting companion, echoing the flavors in the blondies.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce adds a rich flavor contrast that’s sure to please chocolate lovers.
4. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola on top provides crunch and pairs nicely with the soft texture of the blondies.
5. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements the sweet flavors perfectly, making it an ideal pairing for afternoon snacks.
6. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness while adding savory notes to your dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Apple Blondies can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough blondies. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Using too many apples: Stick to 1 cup or less to ensure a balanced flavor. Excess apple can make the blondies too wet.
• Not checking for doneness: Use a toothpick to check if they’re done. Pull them out of the oven when there are a few moist crumbs attached.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your pan helps with easy removal and cleanup. Always use parchment or grease the pan well.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into warm blondies can make them fall apart. Let them cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Blondies

• Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm blondies for 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften them quickly, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid on for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Apple Blondies:

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Blondies?

You can! Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work great, while tart apples add a nice contrast.

How do I know when my Apple Blondies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I customize my Apple Blondies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture.

What is the best way to serve Apple Blondies?

Serve them warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Are these Apple Blondies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Apple Blondies, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Blondies are not only delicious but also versatile. The soft texture and warm spice flavors make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your batch by adding nuts or drizzling caramel sauce on top. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade treats!