Apple Blondies - Gluten Free Cooking Guide

These Apple Blondies are a delightful treat that combines tender cake with the warm flavors of spiced apples. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in, these blondies are quick to prepare and are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. With their soft texture and rich taste, they offer a unique twist on traditional desserts that can be enjoyed year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and fresh apples creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Treat: Serve these blondies as a sweet snack or dessert at any gathering; they fit right in with casual and formal occasions alike.
Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy, these blondies have just the right amount of moisture from the apples to keep them tender.
Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Apple Blondies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

8×8 inch baking pan
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Baking Pan: A sturdy 8×8 inch pan ensures even baking for your blondies.
Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes removal easy.
Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized while preparing your batter.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for incorporating air into your mixture, ensuring light and fluffy blondies.

Ingredients

These apple blondies are soft and tender with a delicious apple spice flavor thanks to the cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. They’re quick and easy to make and taste delicious with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

For the Blondie Batter

1 apple
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (141 grams)
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (melted)
3/4 cup light brown sugar (156 grams) (packed)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Apple Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core the apple. Slice it into small chunks until you have about 3/4 to 1 cup of diced apple. Toss these apple pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Combine Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter with the brown sugar until fully combined. Ensure there are no visible pools of melted butter remaining.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add one large egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Whisk them together until well incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir in the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; stop when there are no lumps or streaks of flour visible.

Step 7: Fold in Apples

Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apple chunks into your blondie batter using a spatula or wooden spoon.

Step 8: Bake the Blondies

Spoon the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out into an even layer. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 22-25 minutes or until the top appears set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan. If lined with parchment paper, lift them out using the overhanging edges. If greased, slice them directly in the pan for serving.

Enjoy these delightful Apple Blondies fresh out of the oven or at room temperature! They’re perfect as-is but can be drizzled with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Apple Blondies

Serving your delicious apple blondies can enhance the experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them.

A La Mode

Serve warm apple blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream adds a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the spice of the blondies.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over each blondie for an extra sweet touch. This complements the apple flavor and gives a delightful gooeyness.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

Top each blondie with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. This light addition balances the richness of the blondies and makes for an elegant presentation.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

Enjoy your apple blondies alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea. This pairing enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy dessert experience.

Chopped Nuts Topping

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before serving. The crunchiness adds texture and a nutty flavor that works well with the spiced apple.

How to Perfect Apple Blondies

To ensure your apple blondies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, firm apples provide better flavor and texture than softer varieties. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well.
Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour, which can lead to dense blondies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can make your blondies tough.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking your blondies at 22 minutes to avoid overbaking. They should be set but still moist in the center.
Cool Completely: Allow the blondies to cool fully before cutting. This helps them set properly and prevents crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Blondies

Pairing side dishes with your apple blondies can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some great options.

Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic choice that adds creaminess and complements the spice in the blondies.
Spiced Chai Latte
The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of your apple dessert, creating a comforting combination.
Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances sweetness and provides a light contrast to rich desserts.
Caramel Sauce
Serve it on the side for dipping or drizzling—perfect for those who want an extra indulgent treat.
Chai-Spiced Hot Cocoa
Rich chocolate meets warm spices, making it an inviting drink alongside your sweet treats.
Crushed Graham Cracker Crust
A crunchy side that adds texture when served alongside or crumbled on top of each slice for added crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making apple blondies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Using too much apple: Adding more than the recommended amount of apple can make your blondies too moist. Stick to 1 cup of chopped apple for the best texture.
Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour can result in dense blondies. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can make it difficult to remove the blondies. Always use parchment paper or grease the pan for easy removal.
Underbaking or overbaking: Baking times may vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on your blondies and test them with a toothpick around the 22-minute mark.
Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into warm blondies can lead to a messy look. Let them cool completely for clean slices and better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
If they start drying out, add a slice of bread to keep them moist.

Freezing Apple Blondies

Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Blondies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat each piece on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making apple blondies that may help you out.

How do I make my Apple Blondies more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding nuts, dried fruits, or using different spices like ginger or allspice along with cinnamon.

Can I substitute the butter in Apple Blondies?

Yes! You can use coconut oil or vegan butter as an alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Are Apple Blondies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! When stored properly, they freeze well and maintain their delicious texture once reheated.

What is the best way to cut Apple Blondies?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and let them cool completely before slicing into squares.

How do I know when my Apple Blondies are done baking?

The top should look set and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

These apple blondies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The combination of tender apples and warm spices makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or swapping spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!