If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s both comforting and irresistibly delicious, then this Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. Imagine tender, buttery blondies bursting with juicy apple chunks and warm spices, all topped with a silky, sweet maple glaze that brings everything together in a perfect harmony. It’s like autumn wrapped up in a single bite, guaranteed to brighten up any afternoon snack or cozy gathering with a friend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each contributing something unique: the flour offers structure, the brown sugar brings deep sweetness and moisture, and the fresh apples add tender juiciness and natural tartness that balance the rich maple glaze.
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: The base that gives the blondies their perfect chew and crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light, tender texture without weighing things down.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the sweetness and spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warmth and cozy aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle spice that deepens the fall flavor profile.
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted: Richness and moisture that melt in your mouth.
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) packed brown sugar: Gives a caramel-like depth and keeps the blondies soft and chewy.
- 2 large eggs: Bind all ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings out all the sweet notes beautifully.
- 2 medium apples (about 2 cups, peeled and diced): Fresh bursts of juicy fruitiness in every bite.
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter (for glaze): Creates a luscious glaze that’s silky smooth.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) pure maple syrup: The star of the glaze, delivering deep, natural sweetness.
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar: Adds creaminess and balances the glaze’s maple intensity.
How to Make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure the blondies pop out easily once baked. This small step saves you from any messy cleanup or sticky situations later.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This mixture sets the tone for your blondies—rich, buttery, and sweet. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, which lifts all the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients provides structure as well as those classic warm spice notes that make these blondies feel like a special treat.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies, so take your time. Then gently fold in the diced apples. Their juicy pieces promise little bursts of freshness in the finished blondies.
Step 5: Bake the Blondies
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. Slide it into your oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This ensures the blondies remain soft and moist rather than dry.
Step 6: Crafting the Perfect Maple Glaze
While your blondies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of maple syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes to concentrate the flavor. Then remove from heat and whisk in 1 cup of powdered sugar until smooth and luscious. Allow the glaze to cool slightly before drizzling it over the cooled blondies for that signature glossy finish.
How to Serve Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle a few chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the glaze just before it sets. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few thin apple slices can also make these blondies look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
Maple glazed apple blondies make a fantastic companion to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For breakfast or brunch, serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the warm flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the blondies into bite-sized bars and serve them on a wooden platter with small bowls of maple syrup for dipping. Or try layering them with whipped cream and caramelized apples in parfait glasses for a stunning dessert twist that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the blondies have cooled and the glaze is set, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful, perfect for grabbing a sweet bite whenever you want.
Freezing
You can freeze unglazed blondies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and add the maple glaze fresh for that homemade touch.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked sensation, warm individual blondie pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Once heated, drizzle with any reserved or extra maple glaze for a melty, irresistible treat.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for the blondies?
Absolutely! Choose your favorite apple—tart Granny Smiths or sweet Fujis work beautifully. Just make sure to dice them small so they cook evenly and distribute throughout the blondies.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you love a little extra fiber and color, leave the skins on. Just be sure to wash the apples thoroughly before dicing.
Can I substitute maple syrup with honey in the glaze?
You can, but maple syrup has a unique flavor that’s central to this recipe. Honey will add sweetness but won’t replicate that deep maple taste. If you do substitute, opt for a mild, light honey to avoid overpowering the blondies.
How do I know when the blondies are perfectly baked?
The best test is the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center and pull it out. If a few moist crumbs cling to the toothpick, the blondies are perfect. Overbaking can dry them out.
What’s the best way to drizzle the maple glaze?
Use a spoon or a small piping bag for control. Drizzle in a zigzag pattern or back and forth slowly to cover the surface beautifully without drowning the blondies.
Final Thoughts
I promise, once you try this Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. It’s an absolute joy to make and even more rewarding to share those tender, maple-sweet bites with the people you care about. So grab your apples and maple syrup, and let’s get baking!
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Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are a delightful dessert combining moist, spiced apple-studded blondies with a rich, sweet maple glaze. Perfect for autumn or any time you crave a comforting treat, they offer a delicious twist on classic blondies with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and the natural sweetness of apples, enhanced by a smooth maple syrup glaze.
Ingredients
Blondies
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 medium apples (about 2 cups, peeled and diced)
Maple Glaze
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (120ml) pure maple syrup
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring a creamy base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each to incorporate air and achieve a consistent texture, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Blend Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to tough blondies.
- Incorporate Apples: Fold in the peeled and diced apples carefully, ensuring they are well distributed without overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Prepare to Bake: Pour the blondie batter into the prepared parchment-lined pan and spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake Blondies: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating the blondies are perfectly cooked but still moist.
- Prepare Maple Glaze: While the blondies bake, combine 1/4 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup pure maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Simmer Glaze: Reduce heat and let the maple syrup mixture simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly and deepen the flavors.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in 1 cup powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth and lump-free.
- Glaze Blondies: Allow the glaze to cool slightly to thicken, then drizzle evenly over the cooled blondies to add a glossy, sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure apples are peeled and diced uniformly for even distribution and consistent texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid dense blondies.
- Let the blondies cool completely before glazing to prevent melting the glaze.
- If you want a thicker glaze, chill it briefly before drizzling.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
