Description of this recipe
Chewy, sweet, and apple-filled, these blondies are topped with a luscious maple glaze. The perfect fall-inspired treat!
Why you will love this recipe
These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of autumn flavors. The combination of tender, juicy apples and the rich, sweet notes of maple syrup creates a delightful balance that will leave you craving more. The blondies are incredibly easy to make, and they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. With their warm spices and gooey texture, these blondies are perfect for cozy gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of tea or coffee.
Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of baked goods wafting through your home. These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies capture the essence of fall in every bite. With their chewy texture, sweet apple chunks, and a decadent maple glaze, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, these blondies are the answer. Let’s dive into the delightful process of making these delicious blondies!
Ingredients:
For the blondies:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 ½ cups (300g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples (about 2 cups, peeled and diced)
For the maple glaze:
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120ml) pure maple syrup
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the blondies from sticking and make for easy removal once they are baked.
Step 2:
In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The warmth of the melted butter will help dissolve the sugar, creating a rich base for your blondies.
Step 3:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a lovely aroma and flavor to the batter.
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These dry ingredients will give your blondies structure and a warm spice profile that complements the apples beautifully.
Step 5:
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense blondies. Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
Step 6:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The blondies should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7 (Maple Glaze):
In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup of butter and ½ cup of maple syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth and glossy. Let the glaze cool slightly before drizzling it over the cooled blondies.
Serving Suggestions:
These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are delicious on their own, but they can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, serve them warm with a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top for added texture. Pair them with a cup of hot apple cider or a steaming mug of chai tea for a perfect fall treat.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use fresh, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
- Make sure to let the blondies cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting into the batter.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are a must-try for anyone who loves the flavors of fall. With their chewy texture and the sweet, sticky glaze, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while bringing a touch of warmth to your kitchen. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, these blondies are a delightful way to celebrate the season. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious slice of autumn bliss!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use any apple variety you prefer. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will result in a sweeter blondie.
Q2: How should I store the blondies?
A2: Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
A3: Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking to achieve the right texture.
Q4: Is there a way to make these blondies healthier?
A4: You can reduce the amount of sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute. Additionally, using applesauce in place of some of the butter can help reduce the fat content while keeping the blondies moist.
Q5: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A5: Yes, you can make the maple glaze ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before drizzling it over the blondies.
