If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, look no further than Maple Glazed Apple Blondies. These chewy bars taste like a sweet apple pie, paired with a warm, maple icing that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon snack, these blondies are bound to become a seasonal favorite.
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Why You’ll Love Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are the ultimate fall treat, bringing together the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with the rich sweetness of maple glaze. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity – it’s easy to make, requires basic ingredients, and delivers a dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare. This dessert is not only flavorful but also perfect for all ages, making it a great option for family-friendly gatherings or casual get-togethers. Best of all, it can be prepped and baked in under an hour!
Ingredients for Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
To make these delicious apple blondies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the blondies.
• Baking Powder: Helps the blondies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the blondies.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the base of the blondies.
• Brown Sugar: Deepens the sweetness and adds a caramel-like flavor.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients and provides structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a comforting, aromatic flavor.
• Cinnamon: Infuses the blondies with warm, spicy flavor.
For the Apple Filling:
• Apples: The star of the show, adding sweetness and texture.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Butter: Helps soften the apples and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Complements the apple flavor.
• Cinnamon: Brings warmth to the filling.
For the Maple Glaze:
• Butter: Provides richness to the glaze.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Adds that distinct maple flavor and sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the glaze.
• Cinnamon: A touch of spice to tie everything together.
Ingredient Substitutes
If you’re looking to customize this recipe based on dietary preferences, here are a few swaps you can try:
• Gluten-Free Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Use a plant-based butter substitute to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Maple-Flavored Syrup: If you don’t have pure maple syrup, a maple-flavored syrup can still offer a similar taste for the glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
Making these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps for a perfect fall dessert every time:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 11×7-inch baking pan with tin foil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium saucepan, cook the apple filling ingredients (chopped apples, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon) over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes. Stir until the apples soften slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Make the Blondie Batter: Cream the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy (about 1 minute). Add in the brown sugar and granulated sugar, then mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until fully combined.
- Assemble the Blondies: Spread half of the blondie batter evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan. Top with the apple filling, spreading it evenly across the batter. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining blondie batter over the apple filling, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or your hands (the batter will be thick).
- Bake: Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a cake tester comes out clean. Let the bars cool for about 10 minutes before adding the glaze.
- Prepare the Maple Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon over low heat. Once fully melted, remove from heat and sift in the powdered sugar. Whisk until smooth and let it cool for 8-10 minutes to thicken.
- Glaze the Blondies: Pour the cooled maple glaze over the blondies, allowing it to set for a few minutes before slicing them into squares.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy your warm, delicious Maple Glazed Apple Blondies!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
• Don’t skip the glaze: The maple glaze is what takes these blondies to the next level. It adds a rich, sweet finish that perfectly complements the cinnamon-spiced apples.
• Check for doneness: The blondies should be golden brown on top and firm in the center. Use a cake tester or toothpick to ensure they’re fully baked.
• Let them cool: Allow the bars to cool for 10 minutes before glazing to prevent the glaze from running off the bars.
• Storing leftovers: Store these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
While these blondies are delightful on their own, you can elevate your dessert game by pairing them with:
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warmth of the blondies perfectly.
• Whipped Cream: Top your blondies with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce for a sweet, indulgent treat.
• Spiced Version: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling.
For make-ahead options, prepare the blondies and glaze, but wait to apply the glaze until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Why Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Are Perfect for Fall
Maple Glazed Apple Blondies bring the essence of fall into your kitchen with the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and maple. This dessert is ideal for cozy gatherings, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or a simple sweet treat to enjoy with your morning coffee. The warm spices and sweet glaze make it the perfect dessert to celebrate the season of harvest.
In conclusion, these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are the perfect fall dessert that combines the best flavors of the season in a quick, easy, and delicious treat. With their chewy texture, sweet apple filling, and maple glaze, they’re bound to be a hit at any occasion.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Fall in Love with Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
In conclusion, Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are the perfect dessert for any occasion, especially during the cozy fall months. The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and the sweet, rich maple glaze makes these bars irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, an afternoon snack, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these blondies are sure to become a favorite. Their chewy texture, comforting flavors, and quick prep time make them a go-to dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make. Don’t forget to add that maple glaze – it’s the final touch that takes these blondies from good to great.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
1. Can I make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies ahead of time! Bake the blondies and allow them to cool completely. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To serve, simply drizzle with the maple glaze just before enjoying.
2. Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for two large apples, you can use any variety of apples you prefer. Granny Smith apples will give you a tart contrast to the sweetness of the glaze, while Honeycrisp apples will add a more balanced, sweet flavor. Experiment with your favorite apples for a personalized twist!
3. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the other ingredients, such as baking powder and butter, are gluten-free as well. These simple substitutions allow everyone to enjoy this delicious treat.
More Relevant Recipes
PrintMaple Glazed Apple Blondies
Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are a delicious fall treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with a rich, sweet maple glaze. These chewy, flavorful bars are perfect for any occasion, and their easy preparation makes them a favorite for home bakers. With a soft texture and a touch of sweetness from the maple glaze, these blondies are sure to become your go-to dessert this season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 large apples (chopped finely)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 11×7-inch pan with tin foil or cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, cook the apples, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes until apples soften. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy. Add brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in salt and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until fully combined.
- Spread half of the blondie batter in the prepared pan. Top with the cooled apple filling, then spread the remaining batter over the apples.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a cake tester comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
- For the glaze, melt butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon over low heat. Sift in powdered sugar and whisk until smooth. Let cool for 8-10 minutes to thicken.
- Pour the cooled glaze over the blondies and allow to set before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Let the blondies cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from running off.
- Feel free to use different types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, depending on your preference for tartness or sweetness.
- These blondies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
