As the crispness of autumn settles in, the scent of cinnamon wafts from my kitchen, instantly bringing warmth to my heart. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a comforting classic: Apple Cinnamon Blondies. This delightful recipe combines the sweetness of brown sugar and the tartness of Granny Smith apples, creating a quick and easy dessert that’s sure to impress. Not only are these blondies a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute gathering or a cozy night in. Imagine indulging in a slice while basking in the glow of a home-cooked moment. Ready to embark on this delicious adventure with me? Let’s dive into the world of flavorful baking!
Why are Apple Cinnamon Blondies so irresistible?
Delightful flavors welcome you to every bite with the perfect blend of sweet brown sugar and tart apples. Quick and easy to make, this recipe requires just 10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes in total, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Versatile enough for casual gatherings or cozy nights at home, these blondies cater to any dessert craving. Crowd-pleaser alert! Your family and friends will be asking for seconds, while the delightful aroma fills your kitchen. Dive into this sweet experience and savor each moment with these delightful treats!
Apple Cinnamon Blondies Ingredients
• Whip up these delicious treats with ease!
For the Batter
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour – a standard base that gives these blondies the perfect texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – helps the blondies rise for a delightful chew.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – adds a warm, aromatic spice that’s simply irresistible.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – a hint of nutmeg complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- ½ cup butter – rich butter creates a moist and buttery blondie.
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar – introduces a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for that warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 egg – binds the ingredients together for a cohesive batter.
- 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced into ¼ inch chunks – adds a tart, juicy surprise to each bite of your Apple Cinnamon Blondies.
Enjoy creating these cozy delights in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the temperature rises, butter and flour an 8×8 inch square baking dish, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking. A well-prepared pan is key to achieving perfectly baked Apple Cinnamon Blondies.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until evenly mixed, releasing lovely aromatic scents that awaken your senses and lay the foundation for your delicious blondies.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, melt ½ cup of butter in the microwave. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted. Once melted, add ⅔ cup of light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved, creating a rich and fragrant mixture that will enhance the flavor of your Apple Cinnamon Blondies.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures
Allow the butter mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, crack in 1 egg and whisk until well combined. Gently pour this wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir carefully just until combined, taking care not to overmix, as a delicate batter is essential for tender blondies.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Now, it’s time to fold in the star ingredient! Add the diced Granny Smith apples to the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. This will create delightful pockets of tartness in every bite of your Apple Cinnamon Blondies, offering the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Using a spatula, transfer the batter into the prepared 8x8 baking dish. Spread it evenly and smooth the top with the back of your spatula. This ensures an even rise and an attractive appearance for your finished blondies, ready to bake in the oven for that aromatic caramelization.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges start to turn a light golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen as the Apple Cinnamon Blondies bake.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the blondies to cool at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes. This cooling time enhances texture and makes cutting easier. After they have cooled, slice them into squares and serve, enjoying the warm spices and sweet apples in each delightful bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cinnamon Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. Simply mix the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately, then combine them and fold in the diced apples before refrigerating. For optimal texture, tightly cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place the batter in an airtight container. When ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to your prepared baking dish and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm blondies with minimal effort, just as delicious as if they were made the same day!
What to Serve with Apple Cinnamon Blondies?
Indulging in Apple Cinnamon Blondies is a delightful experience, but pairing them with the right side dishes or drinks can elevate your dessert moment even further.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully with warm blondies, enhancing every bite with rich flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your blondies adds a luscious, gooey texture that perfectly contrasts the soft blondies.
- Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream is an airy compliment to the dense blondies, making for a refreshing balance.
- Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider infuses cozy flavors that harmonize beautifully with your apple-packed dessert.
- Chopped Nuts: Crunchy walnuts or pecans add a delightful texture contrast, as well as a nutty depth that enhances the overall taste.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs surprisingly well, offering a savory contrast that complements the sweet flavors of the blondies.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted chocolate can provide a decadent richness that takes each bite to new heights.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee brings out the spices in the blondies, providing a balanced taste experience that makes every bite memorable.
- Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top will amplify the cinnamon notes and add a delicate crunch.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite makes for a delightful drink pairing, adding warmth and festivity to your dessert experience.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Room Temperature: Store uneaten blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, ensuring maximum freshness and deliciousness.
Fridge: For longer storage, you can keep your Apple Cinnamon Blondies in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them well to avoid drying out!
Freezer: To enjoy your blondies later, freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: When ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy at room temperature, or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked warmth!
Helpful Tricks for Apple Cinnamon Blondies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature; this helps them incorporate smoothly, creating a tender texture for your Apple Cinnamon Blondies.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when you add wet to dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies, diminishing their lovely chewiness.
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Uniform Apple Size: Dice the Granny Smith apple into even ¼ inch chunks. This ensures they bake evenly, creating delightful pockets of flavor throughout the blondies.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. This helps you achieve that perfect golden edge!
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Cooling Time: Allow the blondies to cool before cutting. This helps them set properly, ensuring clean slices and an enjoyable texture.
Apple Cinnamon Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Apple Cinnamon Blondies to perfectly suit your tastes!
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Nut-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a deliciously rich flavor without nuts.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends and family.
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Add Nuts: Toss in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added depth to the texture.
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More Apples: Increase the apple quantity to two Granny Smith apples for an extra fruity bite in each square. Imagine the juicy bursts of apple goodness with every morsel!
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients for a warming twist that offers a little zing alongside the cinnamon.
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Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and use flaxseed eggs to create a wholesome, allergen-friendly treat.
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Chocolaty: Swirl in ½ cup of chocolate chips to enhance the sweetness and create a dreamy chocolate-apple combination. It's a match made in dessert heaven!
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Savory Twist: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before baking for a sweet-and-salty experience that truly elevates the flavor profile.
Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for my blondies?
Absolutely! For the best Apple Cinnamon Blondies, I recommend using Granny Smith apples because their tartness balances the sweetness of the brown sugar perfectly. Look for firm apples with no dark spots or bruises. They should be bright green and crunchy for the best texture in your blondies.
How should I store my Apple Cinnamon Blondies?
I suggest keeping your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but ensure they are well wrapped to avoid drying out. They tend to be best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal texture.
Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Blondies? What’s the best way?
Yes, you can freeze your Apple Cinnamon Blondies! Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a delicious, warming treat!
What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If your blondies turned out too dry, it could be due to overbaking or overmixing the batter. Next time, try reducing the baking time slightly and mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep that delicious, chewy texture. Also, adding a bit more butter or a tablespoon of applesauce can help add moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations for Apple Cinnamon Blondies?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these blondies gluten-free. For dairy-free versions, using coconut oil in place of butter works beautifully, and flax eggs can be used instead of regular eggs for a vegan option. Always make sure to check for any allergies related to the ingredients used!
Delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies for Cozy Moments
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
- 8x8 inch baking dish
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour a standard base that gives these blondies the perfect texture.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder helps the blondies rise for a delightful chew.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic spice.
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- 0.5 cup butter rich butter creates a moist and buttery blondie.
- 0.67 cup light brown sugar introduces a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 large egg binds the ingredients together.
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced adds a tart, juicy surprise.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter and flour an 8×8 inch square baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, melt butter and then add brown sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until dissolved.
- Allow the butter mixture to cool, crack in the egg, and whisk until combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
- Fold in the diced Granny Smith apples to the batter.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until edges are light golden brown.
- Allow cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.
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