Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
There’s something absolutely magical about biting into a square of Maple Glazed Apple Blondies: the tender crumb, fragrant with cinnamon and nutmeg, the bursts of juicy apple, and the sweet drizzle of maple glaze that ties everything together. This is one of those recipes I make when I want to capture the cozy, nostalgic flavors of fall but still keep things simple and shareable. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, a holiday, or just to treat yourself, these blondies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies is wonderfully straightforward, but don’t let its simplicity fool you—each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and golden color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, melted): Melted butter is the secret to a chewy, rich base and helps the blondies stay moist and tender.
- Brown Sugar (1 1/2 cups): Brown sugar brings deep caramel notes and extra softness to every bite.
- Eggs (2 large): Eggs provide structure and help bind the batter together for that perfect bar shape.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Vanilla adds warmth and rounds out the flavors, making the apples and spices shine.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Flour gives these blondies their classic, cakey-yet-fudgy texture.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): A touch of baking powder ensures just the right amount of lift.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Salt balances the sweetness and enhances every flavor.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The cozy, comforting spice that makes these blondies unmistakably autumnal.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a little nutmeg adds warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with apple.
- Peeled and Diced Apples (2 cups): Fresh apples provide bursts of tartness and moisture—choose a firm variety for the best texture.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For crunch and a nutty counterpoint to the sweet apples and glaze.
- Butter for Glaze (1/4 cup): Helps the glaze set up rich and creamy.
- Pure Maple Syrup (1/2 cup): The hero of the glaze—don’t skimp on the real stuff for the best maple flavor!
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Ensures a silky, pourable glaze that sets beautifully on top.
- Vanilla Extract for Glaze (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a final note of warmth to the glossy maple finish.
How to Make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This not only makes cleanup a breeze, but it also ensures you can lift your blondies out easily for perfectly neat squares. Don’t skip this step—parchment is your friend!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This base creates that signature chewy, caramel-like crumb that makes Maple Glazed Apple Blondies so irresistible.
Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed—no pockets of flour or spice overload here! It means every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your blondies tender and soft. You’ll notice the batter will be thick—that’s exactly how it should be!
Step 5: Fold in Apples (and Nuts, If Using)
Fold in the diced apples and, if you like a bit of crunch, the chopped walnuts or pecans. The apples add juicy pockets of flavor throughout, while the nuts offer a delightful contrast to the soft crumb. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Your kitchen will smell incredible—a sure sign that your Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are nearly ready! Let them cool completely in the pan before glazing.
Step 7: Make the Maple Glaze
For the crowning touch, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the pure maple syrup, then take the pan off the heat and stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla until the glaze is smooth and pourable. The glaze should be thick enough to set but still easy to drizzle.
Step 8: Glaze and Slice
Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled blondies, letting it cascade over the edges and into the nooks and crannies. Allow the glaze to set (about 15 minutes), then lift the blondies out by the parchment and cut into neat squares. Each piece is a perfect balance of spiced apple and sweet maple—truly the best part of any gathering!
How to Serve Maple Glazed Apple Blondies
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon over the glazed blondies. If you’re feeling extra festive, add a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a dessert that’s both rustic and decadent.
Side Dishes
These blondies are delightful with a mug of hot apple cider, spiced chai, or even a strong cup of coffee. For a more elaborate dessert plate, pair with a fruit salad featuring pears and grapes or serve alongside a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. Maple Glazed Apple Blondies play well with all things cozy!
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your blondies into a fall-inspired trifle by layering cubes with whipped cream and caramel sauce in clear glasses. Or, wrap individual blondies in parchment and tie with twine for the perfect homemade gift. For parties, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking—no forks needed!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and glazed, Maple Glazed Apple Blondies will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, pop the container in the fridge to keep the glaze set and the bars moist.
Freezing
These blondies freeze beautifully! Arrange cut squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid; then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If you love a warm treat, zap individual blondies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. The glaze gets soft and gooey, and the apples turn extra juicy—like a cross between a blondie and warm apple pie. Top with ice cream for an unbeatable dessert experience!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While any firm, tart apple works well (think Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady), feel free to use your favorite variety. Softer apples may get a bit mushy, but the flavor will still shine through.
How do I know when the blondies are fully baked?
Look for golden edges and a center that’s set but still slightly soft. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached—avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy and moist.
Can I make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Check that your baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed, and follow the recipe as written.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples gives a smoother texture, but if you don’t mind a bit of chew, you can leave the skins on for extra fiber and color. It’s all about personal preference!
Can I make these blondies without nuts?
Of course. The nuts are totally optional and can be left out for a nut-free version. If you want a little something extra, try adding a handful of dried cranberries or raisins instead.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels as comforting as a cozy sweater and as crowd-pleasing as apple pie, you absolutely have to bake these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies. They’re easy enough for a weeknight treat but special enough for any celebration—so grab some apples and get baking. Your kitchen (and everyone lucky enough to snag a square) will thank you!
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Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 blondies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are a perfect fall dessert combining tender, spiced apple-infused blondies with a rich, sweet maple glaze. Soft blondies studded with diced apples and optional crunchy nuts are baked to perfection and topped with a smooth maple frosting, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Blondies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Maple Glaze
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and clean-up.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the blondies tender.
- Add apples and nuts: Gently fold in the peeled and diced apples and the chopped walnuts or pecans if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Remove the baked blondies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan to set properly before glazing.
- Prepare glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the pure maple syrup and then remove the pan from heat. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and lump-free.
- Glaze blondies: Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the cooled blondies, allowing it to set and create a beautiful, sweet coating.
- Serve: Once the glaze has set, cut the blondies into 16 squares and serve. For extra decadence, enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For extra decadence, serve warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- These blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Using tart apples like Granny Smith adds a nice balance to the sweetness.
- To make the recipe nut-free, omit the walnuts or pecans.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 blondie
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
