If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances cozy warmth and sweet indulgence, look no further than this Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe. Imagine tender blondies packed with tender bits of fresh apple and a gentle hint of cinnamon, all topped with a luscious maple glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of treat that turns any ordinary day into a special occasion, capturing the essence of fall flavors with every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the moist, tender texture and rich flavor of these blondies. From the flour that creates structure to the chopped apples that add moisture and a fresh fruity note, every component is essential to this recipe’s magic.
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour: This provides the body and chewy texture that blondies are famous for.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the blondies rise just enough to keep them light and tender.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a chewy crumb, while helping the batter come together.
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed: Brings deep caramel notes and moisture, keeping the blondies wonderfully soft.
- 1 large egg: Provides structure and stability to the batter.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and sweetness that complements the apples and cinnamon.
- 1 cup (120g) peeled and chopped apples: Fresh pieces that add juicy bursts and softness inside the blondies.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- For the Maple Glaze: These ingredients create a smooth, sweet finish that elevates the whole dessert.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup: Imparts natural sweetness and that signature maple flavor everyone loves.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds a silky richness to the glaze.
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens and thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency.
How to Make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking right from the get-go. Grease a 9×9 inch pan and line it with parchment paper, which will make removing your blondies easier and keep them intact when you slice.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients create the structure your blondies need while providing that little lift and balance to the sweetness.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Then stir in the egg and vanilla extract, which enrich the mixture and add lovely depth to the flavor.
Step 4: Bring Dry and Wet Ingredients Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet bowl, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep your blondies tender and soft.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Cinnamon
Gently fold in the chopped apples and sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. This distributes the warm spice and juicy apple pieces evenly throughout the batter, creating bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Bake Your Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures your blondies are perfectly baked – moist but set.
Step 7: Prepare the Maple Glaze
While the blondies cool, make the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the maple syrup together. Once melted and blended, remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until the glaze is silky smooth.
Step 8: Glaze and Cool
Drizzle your maple glaze evenly over the cooled blondies. Let it set at room temperature before cutting into squares so each piece is perfectly coated with that irresistible maple finish.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh apple slices on the side can elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your blondies with creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement their warm sweetness. A cup of hot cider or your favorite tea can round out this comforting treat for an afternoon break or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut blondies into small bite-sized squares for a party platter or layer them in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and diced apples for a show-stopping layered dessert. Wrapping individual blondies in parchment paper with a ribbon makes a charming homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their soft texture and prevents the maple glaze from drying out.
Freezing
Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe leftovers freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen blondies, thaw at room temperature and warm them briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a soft, freshly baked feel. Avoid overheating to keep the glaze from melting too much.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work great. Just choose one that holds its texture well when baked for the best results.
Is there a substitute for the maple syrup in the glaze?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. The maple syrup gives a signature taste, so try to use it if possible for this recipe.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for proper texture.
Do these blondies need to be refrigerated?
They can be stored safely at room temperature for a few days. If you live in a very warm climate, refrigeration might help preserve freshness, but bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
What is the best way to slice the blondies after glazing?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat squares without dragging the glaze. Chilling the blondies briefly before slicing can also make this easier.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying out this Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe; it’s a straightforward way to create a dessert that feels both wholesome and special. Every bite brings together the sweet warmth of maple, the fresh crispness of apples, and that blissful tender texture that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite.
