If you’re craving a cozy, comforting treat that beautifully marries the sweet warmth of cinnamon with the crisp freshness of apples, then you’re in for a real treat with this Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe. These blondies come out irresistibly soft and chewy, with pockets of tender apple chunks and delightful cinnamon chips, making each bite a perfect balance of autumnal flavors. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply indulging at home, this recipe stands out as a delicious way to brighten any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients – each one plays a crucial role in creating that superb texture and flavor. From the richness of butter to the sweet spice of cinnamon chips, here’s everything you’ll need to make these superb blondies.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon): Provides a rich, tender crumb and helps caramelize the brown sugar and apples for depth of flavor.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup + 2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor that perfectly complements the apples and cinnamon.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and adds structure without making the blondies too dense.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances the sweetness and adds warmth to the overall flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the base of the batter, giving the blondies their soft yet sturdy texture.
- Kosher salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Medium apple (1, diced into 1/4″ chunks): Brings fresh juiciness and a natural tartness that brightens the dessert.
- Cinnamon chips (1/2 cup): Sprinkles of spicy-sweet cinnamon surprise that melt into the blondies, elevating every bite.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Apples
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8-by-8-inch pan with foil or parchment paper; be sure to spray it with cooking spray for easy removal later. Then, melt a tablespoon of butter in a small skillet and stir in two tablespoons of brown sugar with the diced apples. Let this mixture simmer gently for around 5 minutes until the apples soften slightly and the sugar caramelizes nicely. This step brings out the best flavor and tenderness in the apples, making every bite melt in your mouth.
Step 2: Make the Blondie Batter
While the apples cool, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of butter. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of brown sugar until well combined and glossy. Add your egg and vanilla extract, whisking again until smooth. Next, stir in the flour and salt just until they come together—try not to overmix, or the blondies could become tough. Finally, fold in the cinnamon chips and your beautifully tenderized apple mixture. Pour this batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake your blondies for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges gently pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Resist the urge to cut right away—let them cool completely for at least two hours, or refrigerate before slicing. This resting time helps the blondies set perfectly so they hold their shape and slice beautifully into 16 generous squares.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a pretty finish and a touch of sweetness that makes these blondies even more stunning. For an extra cozy touch, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes the perfect finishing flourish when serving.
Side Dishes
Serve these blondies alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider to really highlight the inviting apple cinnamon flavors. If you want to turn this into a dessert plate, fresh fruit or whipped cream make light and refreshing companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by cutting these blondies into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or special occasions. You can also layer them in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and spiced apple compote for a show-stopping holiday treat that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container, stored at room temperature or in the fridge for up to one week. This makes it easy to grab a sweet bite whenever those cravings hit!
Freezing
These blondies freeze beautifully for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you want a treat, thaw them overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature.
Reheating
If you prefer your blondies warm, pop a slice into the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or toasty them in a low oven. Warm blondies taste incredible, especially paired with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of honey.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While a medium apple with a balance of sweetness and tartness works best, you can experiment with varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness. Just make sure to dice them finely for even baking.
What can I substitute for cinnamon chips?
If cinnamon chips are hard to find, try using mini chocolate chips or even chopped nuts for texture. You can also sprinkle cinnamon and a little sugar directly into the batter for that warm cinnamon flavor.
Is it necessary to simmer the apples first?
Simmering the apples with butter and brown sugar softens them and helps develop deeper caramelized flavors, but if you’re short on time, folding raw diced apples into the batter can work as well. Just expect a slight difference in texture and flavor.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can make this Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain structure.
How do I get clean, even slices?
The key to perfect slices is letting the blondies cool completely and chilling them before cutting. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts will also help ensure each square looks neat and professional.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the warmth and comfort packed into these Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe bars—they feel like a hug in dessert form. If you love desserts that combine classic fall flavors with an easy, approachable recipe, this one is definitely worth making. I can’t wait for you to enjoy every delicious bite just as much as I do!
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Apple Cinnamon Blondies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
Delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies that combine tender chunks of apple with warm cinnamon chips in a rich, buttery blondie base. Perfectly soft and moist, these bars are ideal for a cozy dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Butter and Sugar Mixture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (divided)
Batter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Filling
- 1 medium apple, diced into 1/4” chunks (peeled if desired)
- 1/2 cup cinnamon chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Cook Apples: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of the unsalted butter. Add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar along with the diced apples. Stir to combine, then let simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until the apples soften slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool while preparing the blondie batter.
- Make Blondie Batter: Melt the remaining 1/2 cup of butter in the microwave. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and the remaining 1 cup brown sugar until combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking again until smooth. Stir in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. Fold in the cinnamon chips and the cooled apple mixture gently.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or offset knife. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bars are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should begin to pull away slightly from the pan.
- Cool and Slice: Let the blondies cool for at least 2 hours before slicing into 16 squares. For easier slicing, refrigerate before cutting.
- Storage: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Peeling the apple is optional; leaving the peel adds texture and nutrients.
- Refrigerating the blondies before slicing helps achieve cleaner cuts.
- You can substitute cinnamon chips with cinnamon sugar or chopped cinnamon candies if desired.
- Use a sharp knife when slicing to maintain clean edges.
- These blondies make a great make-ahead dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
