Introduction to Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Hey there, fellow home cooks! As the leaves start to turn and a crispness fills the air, my kitchen instantly craves cozy, comforting flavors. That’s why I’m so excited to share these incredible apple cinnamon blondies with you today.
Honestly, who doesn’t need a little sweet treat to brighten their day? This recipe is my go-to when I want something homemade and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re perfect for a weekend bake, a school bake sale, or just because you deserve something special.
These blondies are like a warm hug in every bite. They’re a fantastic way to use up those apples from your farmer’s market haul. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon filling your home is pure magic. Let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Blondies
These apple cinnamon blondies are a weeknight savior. They whip up quickly. You get amazing fall flavor. They are incredibly easy to make. Even beginners can nail them. They taste way better than store-bought. Plus, they use simple pantry staples.
They offer pure comfort. The texture is wonderfully chewy. The apple and cinnamon combo is classic. You can even add nuts. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients for Delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to baking success. We’ll need a few key players for these delightful apple cinnamon blondies. Don’t worry about exact amounts here; those are listed at the end for printing. Let’s talk about what makes them so good.
Every great blondie starts with a solid foundation. This recipe uses a good amount of rich, creamy butter. It’s melted for easy mixing. This makes the blondies wonderfully chewy and moist. It’s the heart of that buttery flavor.
The Butter Base
Melted butter is essential. It creates that signature chewy texture. It also adds a rich, nutty flavor. It’s the base for our sweet batter.
Sweeteners & Binders
Brown sugar brings moisture. It also adds a lovely caramel note. Eggs act as binders. They hold everything together. Vanilla extract adds a warm, sweet aroma. It enhances all the other flavors.
Dry Ingredients for Structure
All-purpose flour provides the main structure. It’s the backbone of our blondies. Baking powder gives a slight lift. It prevents them from being too dense. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness. It makes the flavors pop.
The Flavor Stars: Apples and Spice
Chopped apples are the stars here. Choose firm, crisp apples for the best texture. Honeycrisp or Fuji work wonderfully. Ground cinnamon is a must. It provides that warm, comforting spice. It’s the perfect partner for apples.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Crunch
Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, are a fantastic addition. They add a delightful crunch. They also bring a nutty depth. Feel free to skip them if you have allergies. Or if you just prefer them plain.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Let’s get these delicious apple cinnamon blondies into the oven! This recipe is straightforward. You’ll have a fantastic treat in no time. Follow these simple steps for baking perfection. It’s easier than you think.
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Pan and Oven
First things first. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Next, prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it well. Then, dust it lightly with flour. This stops the blondies from sticking. It makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Create the Wet Batter Base
Grab a large bowl. Pour in the melted butter. Add the packed light brown sugar. Whisk them together until smooth. This forms the rich base. Now, beat in the eggs. Add them one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aroma.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk your dry ingredients. Combine the all-purpose flour. Add the ground cinnamon. Don’t forget the baking powder. And the salt is important too. Whisking them ensures they distribute evenly. This prevents pockets of spice or flour.
Step 4: Marry Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make your blondies tough. A few streaks of flour are okay.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Time for the stars of the show! Gently fold in the chopped apples. If you’re using nuts, add them now too. Mix them into the batter carefully. You want to distribute them evenly. This ensures apple and cinnamon in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Make sure it’s a nice, even layer. Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs. No wet batter should remain.
Step 7: Cool and Cut Your Apple Cinnamon Blondies
This step is crucial for clean cuts. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan. Patience is key here. Once fully cooled, you can cut them. Use a sharp knife for neat squares. This makes your apple cinnamon blondies look as good as they taste.
Tips for Success
- Use firm apples. They hold their shape better.
- Don’t overmix the batter. It keeps them tender.
- Cool them completely before cutting. This is key.
- Fresh baking powder is important. It helps them rise.
- Taste your apples. Adjust cinnamon if needed.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: Use any two bowls you have.
- Whisk: A fork works in a pinch.
- Spatula or spoon: For folding ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for baking accuracy.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: An 8×8 or 9×9 pan works too.
- Oven: A standard kitchen oven is perfect.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic apple cinnamon blondies, why not play around? Baking is all about creativity. These simple tweaks can transform your treat. They cater to different tastes and needs.
Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Want to make these gluten-free? Easy! Use a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum. This helps with structure. Almond flour or oat flour can also work. They add a lovely texture.
Dairy-Free Adaptations
To make these dairy-free, swap the butter. Use a plant-based butter alternative. Coconut oil also works well. It adds a subtle tropical note. Ensure your apples are fresh. You’re good to go!
Spice It Up!
Love a little extra warmth? Add more cinnamon. A pinch of nutmeg or cloves is great. Ginger adds a spicy kick. Cardamom offers an exotic flavor. Experiment with your favorite spice blends. It’s your kitchen!
Nut-Free Options
If nuts aren’t your thing, or for allergies, simply omit them. The blondies are still delicious. You could add seeds instead. Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add crunch. They also provide a nice color contrast. Enjoy them nut-free!
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cinnamon Blondies
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Enjoy them alongside a glass of cold milk.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.
FAQs about Apple Cinnamon Blondies
Got questions about these delightful apple cinnamon blondies? I’ve got answers! Baking should be fun and stress-free. Let’s tackle some common queries.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji are great, feel free to experiment. Granny Smith apples offer a nice tartness. Gala apples are sweet and tender. Just ensure your apples are firm. Softer apples can turn mushy. They might not give the best texture.
How long do apple cinnamon blondies last?
These delicious treats last for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature. This helps maintain their chewy texture. Avoid the refrigerator. It can dry them out. They are best enjoyed fresh!
Can I freeze these blondies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Bake and cool them completely first. Cut them into squares. Wrap each blondie tightly. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature. They are still delicious!
What makes a blondie different from a brownie?
The main difference is flavor and color. Brownies rely on chocolate. They have a fudgy texture. Blondies use vanilla and brown sugar. They have a chewier, cake-like base. Our apple cinnamon blondies have no cocoa powder. They feature apples and cinnamon instead. It’s a lovely contrast!
Final Thoughts
There you have it, my friends! These apple cinnamon blondies are more than just a dessert. They are a little slice of autumn comfort. They bring warmth and happiness to any occasion. I hope you feel inspired to bake them.
Remember, baking is about creating memories. It’s about sharing love. These blondies are perfect for that. They’re simple, delicious, and always a hit. Give them a try soon. Your kitchen will thank you!
PrintApple Cinnamon Blondies: Bake the Perfect Treat!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Blondies are a delightful fall treat, combining the warm spices of cinnamon with the sweet, tender chunks of apple in a chewy, buttery blondie base. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, firm apples.
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper leavening.
- Allowing the blondies to cool completely will make them easier to cut.
- These blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
