These Apple Blondies with Maple Glaze are a delightful combination of tender blondies filled with spiced apples and topped with a rich maple glaze. This recipe is perfect for autumn, bringing together the warm flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and maple syrup with the crisp sweetness of apples. These blondies are moist, flavorful, and sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Ingredients for Apple Blondies with Maple Glaze
For the Blondies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the blondies.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the blondies rise and stay light.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup softened butter: Adds moisture and richness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the blondies and adds a slight crunch.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Adds a warm, spiced flavor that complements the apples.
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 large apples, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and tart flavor with a juicy texture.
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar: Sweetens the apples and helps caramelize them.
- 1 Tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the apples.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the apples.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and a spiced flavor to the apple filling.
For the Maple Glaze:
- 2 Tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth glaze.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Adds a deep, rich sweetness that complements the blondies.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the maple flavor.
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth to the glaze. Instructions: How to Make Apple Blondies with Maple Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Sauté the Apples:
- In a medium skillet, melt 1 Tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped apples, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Blondies
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the Apple Filling:
- Gently fold the sautéed apples into the blondie batter until evenly distributed.
- Bake the Blondies:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Remove from the oven and allow the blondies to cool in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Maple Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 Tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/4 cup pure maple syrup and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
Step 4: Glaze the Blondies
- Glaze the Blondies:
- Once the blondies have cooled slightly, drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the top.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before cutting the blondies into squares. Serve the blondies warm or at room temperature.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Apples: Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala apples work well in this recipe for their firm texture and sweet-tart flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Imitation syrups may not provide the same depth of flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations of Apple Blondies
Here are some ways to customize your Apple Blondies:
- Nutty Blondies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
- Spiced Blondies: Increase the cinnamon in the blondies and glaze, or add a pinch of nutmeg and allspice for extra warmth.
- Caramel Apple Blondies: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the blondies along with or instead of the maple glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can substitute the apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time of the fruit as needed.
2. Can I make the blondies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the blondies a day in advance and store them at room temperature. Add the glaze just before serving for the best texture.
3. Can I freeze these blondies?
Yes, you can freeze the blondies without the glaze. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the glaze before serving.
4. How do I prevent the blondies from being too dense?
Make sure not to overmix the batter and measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
5. What can I serve with these blondies?
These blondies are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
A Perfectly Sweet and Spiced Treat
Apple Blondies with Maple Glaze are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. The combination of tender, spiced apples, rich blondie base, and sweet maple glaze creates a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, they’re sure to be a hit.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy these delicious and comforting blondies that bring the flavors of autumn right to your table!
