Apple Blondies Recipe

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Welcome the Flavors of Apple Blondies Recipe

I always find that few baked treats capture the cozy essence of home quite like apple blondies. The marriage of tender chunks of apple with warm cinnamon and nutmeg turns these blondies into a bubbly, fragrant delight perfect for any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a spontaneous weeknight dessert, this Apple Blondies Recipe fits right in.

I love how the tender, golden crisp edges contrast the soft, moist interior studded with cinnamon-sprinkled apple bites. You’ll enjoy the ease of assembling this snack, and your whole family will be delighted by the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Keep reading because I’m sharing helpful tips and tricks to make your Apple Blondies Recipe a smashing success every single time.

Market Basket & Pantry Picks

One of the joys of the Apple Blondies Recipe is the simplicity of ingredients—most of which you likely have in your pantry. Let’s talk about choosing the best apple and any savvy substitutions that won’t compromise the lovely flavors.

• Apple (1 medium): A crisp, sweet-tart apple like Honeycrisp or Gala offers the best balance. Avoid overly juicy apples that can make the batter soggy.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp total): Divided into two halves, this classic spice brings warmth and aroma.
• Flour (1 cup + 2 tbsp all-purpose, 141 g): For that perfect golden blondie crumb. You can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Ground nutmeg (1/8 tsp): A pinch adds depth without overpowering.
• Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Helps keep the blondies light and fluffy.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Essential to balance the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, 112 g), melted: Use real butter for ultimate richness.
• Light brown sugar (3/4 cup, 156 g), packed: Adds moisture and that signature caramel undertone.
• Egg (1 large): Binds everything with a silky texture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A fragrant finishing touch that rounds out the flavor.

Cook Apple Blondies Recipe Step by Step

Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time for the magic to happen. I find this Apple Blondies Recipe easy to follow and perfect to do alongside a cup of coffee or your favorite playlist humming in the background.

1. Preheat & Prep: Get your oven set to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a handy overhang to lift the blondies out later. If you don’t have parchment, a good grease with butter or nonstick spray works fine.
2. Apple Prep: Peel, core, and dice your apple. Toss the pieces with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon—this step brings out that cinnamon-spiced aroma I adore. Remember, don’t use more than one cup of chopped apple to keep the batter balanced.
3. Dry Mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, remaining ½ teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. This ensures all the spices and leavening are evenly distributed.
4. Wet Mix: In a large bowl, whisk your melted butter with the packed brown sugar until completely combined and no pools of butter remain. Then, add the egg and vanilla, whisking well to a silky batter.
5. Combine: Slowly stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you see no streaks of flour. Avoid overmixing—that’s the ticket to soft blondies.
6. Apple Folding: Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apple chunks into the blondie batter, ensuring the fruit stays intact and evenly scattered.
7. Bake: Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 22-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the top looks set and a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Resist the urge to overbake; this keeps them tender.
8. Cool & Slice: Let your blondies cool completely before slicing. If you used parchment, gently lift the blondies using the overhang and cut on a board. This prevents crumbling and makes serving a breeze.

Serving the Dish with Flair

These apple blondies are just as lovely straight from the oven or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful twist. I love sharing them warm with family—the soft apple chunks and cinnamon fragrance make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether for casual snacking or dessert on a crisp afternoon, they’re sure to get smiles all around.

Fun Variations with Apple Blondies Recipe

• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for delightful crunch and earthy notes.
• Swirl in caramel sauce before baking to give a gooey surprise inside.
• Try mixing in dried cranberries for a sweet and tart contrast.
• Swap the apple for pear to explore a softer, mellow fruit flavor.
• Dust the top lightly with cinnamon sugar halfway through baking for a crunchy crust.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Keep your blondies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature or warm before enjoying.
• Freeze: Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave just until soft and fragrant—avoid overdoing it or they’ll dry out.

Apple Blondies Recipe FAQs

• Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?
  Absolutely! Pears work well, and you could even try diced peaches in the summer, but keep in mind the moisture content might change the baking time slightly.
• Do I need to peel the apple?
  Peeling is recommended for a softer texture and smoother batter, but if you prefer the extra fiber and slight chew, you can leave the peel on—just wash thoroughly.
• Can I make these gluten-free?
  Yes, swapping all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend works nicely. Just avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.
• How do I know when the blondies are done?
  Look for a set top and edges pulling slightly from the pan. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.
• Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
  Definitely! Chopped nuts add crunch, and chocolate chips lend sweetness—fold them in just before baking.

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