The sweet aroma of fresh apple pie lingers in the air, but wait—better yet, imagine sinking your teeth into warm, gooey Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. These delightful bars deliver all the scrumptious flavors of a cozy fall treat, with a creamy frosting that smooths every bite and leaves you craving just one more square. Perfect for family gatherings, chilly nights, or random Tuesday evenings when all you need is a little sweetness to brighten your day.
I remember the first time I made these blondies; it was one of those impulsive baking sessions where I threw together what I had on hand. Suddenly, my kitchen smelled like a charming little bakery, and I couldn’t wait to share them with friends. The delightful blend of juicy apples, warm spices, and the lush cream cheese frosting made everyone smile—and trust me, nothing feels better than being the person who brings joy to a gathering with just a pan of treats. Get ready for this young and vibrant recipe that’s going to become your new favorite!
Why You'll Love This Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
- This incredible Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter – Provides richness and helps create that perfectly chewy texture.
290 grams all-purpose flour – The backbone of the recipe, contributing to the structure of these blondies.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder – This leavening agent ensures your blondies rise beautifully.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 tsp cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, setting the tone for this cozy dessert.
1/4 tsp nutmeg – Offers a subtle complexity that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
1 2/3 cup brown sugar – Sweet and slightly caramel-like, it helps achieve that rich flavor profile.
2 eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla that brightens up all the flavors.
2 cups peeled and chopped apples – Provides delightful pops of flavor and natural sweetness.
1/4 tsp cinnamon – A little extra for sautéing the apples, deepening their flavor.
1 tbsp butter – Used for sautéing the apples for an enhanced taste.
6 oz cream cheese – The base of the frosting, adding richness and tanginess.
1/2 stick unsalted butter – Helps to create a creamy frosting texture.
3/4 cup confectioners sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
3 tbsp maple syrup – Infuses the frosting with a warm, distinctive flavor that pairs beautifully with the blondies.
1/2 tsp cinnamon – A final touch for the frosting, enhancing those cozy flavors.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), setting the stage for baking magic.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this aside as you’ll need it shortly for that glorious batter.
Step 3: Brown the Butter
In a large pan over low heat, melt the stick of unsalted butter. Keep a watchful eye as you increase the heat slightly, stirring frequently to achieve that gorgeous browned butter, similar to a cozy hug from the oven.
Step 4: Sauté the Apples
Peel and chop the apples into delightful chunks, then sauté them in a separate pan with 1 tablespoon of butter for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and stir well, allowing their sweet aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 5: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the melted butter with the brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until you reach a caramel-like consistency that makes your taste buds tingle with excitement.
Step 6: Create the Blondie Batter
Fold the dry ingredient mixture into your wet ingredients with a spatula until just combined. Gently fold in the sautéed cinnamon apples—this is where the magic really starts to happen!
Step 7: Bake
Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper for ease of removal. Pour in your luscious batter and spread it evenly, then pop it in the oven. Bake for 35-45 minutes, checking for doneness at the 28-30 minute mark using a toothpick.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
While the blondies are baking, whip up the cream cheese frosting by combining softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl with a hand mixer. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar and maple syrup, mixing until it’s all smooth and creamy. Place this delicious frosting concoction in the fridge while the blondies cool.
Step 9: Cool and Frost the Blondies
Once the blondies are done baking, let them cool in the pan for an hour. After that, transfer them to a cooling rack for an additional 1-2 hours. The goal is to let them cool completely before frosting them; nobody wants a melted mess!
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, spread the chilled frosting over the blondies, sprinkle with cinnamon, slice them into squares, and prepare for pure bliss!
Now, you are fully equipped to enjoy the delectable delight that is Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting! These treats are bound to warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas, creating lasting memories in every bite. Go ahead, make a batch and enjoy the smiles they bring!
This showstopping Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by preparing your dry ingredients while the butter is melting. Once the butter is browned, mix in the wet ingredients before adding the apples. Efficient sequencing ensures a smooth baking process.
Add Your Touch to Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Feel free to customize the blondies by swapping in different apples, like Granny Smith for tartness, or adding nuts for crunch. You can also experiment with other spices like ginger or allspice for unique flavor profiles.
Storing & Reheating Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to regain that freshly baked warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
- This professional-quality Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Creating these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting reminds me of the time I baked them for a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about the flavors. It’s those little moments that make cooking so special.
FAQs About Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
What is Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting?
Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are a delicious dessert that combines the soft, chewy texture of blondies with the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples. These treats are topped with a creamy, sweet maple cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the rich blondie base. Ideal for any occasion, these blondies provide a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making them a hit among family and friends.
How do I store Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting?
To store your Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer duration, refrigerate them for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy them, briefly microwave a piece to regain that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
Can I customize Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting?
Absolutely! You can easily customize Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting to suit your taste. For a twist, try using different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for added tartness. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, feel free to add in nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can also experiment with other spices, like ginger or allspice, for additional layers of flavor. The possibilities are endless.
How long do Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting take to make?
Making Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting typically takes about two and a half hours from start to finish. This includes 20 minutes for preparation, 35 minutes for baking, and an additional cooling time of roughly two hours before you can frost and serve. Despite the waiting, the delicious outcome is well worth the time invested in creating these delightful blondies.
Conclusion for Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
In summary, the Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting bring together warm spices and sweet apples into a delightful dessert. This recipe is simple, allowing you to create a memorable treat that’s perfect for any gathering. The creamy maple frosting elevates the blondies, making them irresistible. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, these blondies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy this sweet treat and savor every last bite!
Delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large pan on low heat, melt the butter. Increase heat slightly to brown the butter, stirring frequently.
- Peel and chop the apples, then sauté in a large pan with 1 tablespoon of butter for 10 minutes. Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and stir well. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla with a hand mixer until caramel consistency is achieved.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and fold together with a spatula.
- Fold in the sautéed cinnamon apples.
- Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper and pour in the batter. Bake for 35-45 minutes, checking for doneness around 28-30 minutes for metal pans.
- While the blondies are baking, make the cream cheese frosting by combining softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl using a hand mixer.
- Add powdered sugar and maple syrup, then mix again and place in the fridge.
- Remove the blondies from the oven and let cool for 1 hour in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack for an additional 1-2 hours.
- Spread the chilled frosting on cooled blondies, top with cinnamon, cut into squares, and enjoy!
