Cinnamon Apple Blondies – Soft, Chewy & Filled with Spices

There’s something truly heartwarming about Cinnamon Apple Blondies, a soft and chewy treat that blends cozy spices with tender chunks of apple. This Cinnamon Apple Blondies, making it perfect when you want to share a generous batch of these fragrant, comforting bars. Every bite bursts with a lovely cinnamon aroma, a hint of nutmeg, and the natural sweetness that only fresh apples can bring. If you’re seeking an easy dessert that feels like a warm hug, these blondies are going to become a new favorite in your recipe box.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor. From spices that evoke autumn vibes to the juicy apple that adds moisture and freshness, this list is all about balance and deliciousness.

• Apple: Use a crisp, tart variety like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast and texture in your blondies.
• Cinnamon: Adds warm spice that perfectly complements the apples and elevates the overall taste.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the batter, providing structure while keeping these bars soft and tender.
• Ground nutmeg: A subtle spice that adds depth and richness without overpowering the cinnamon.
• Baking powder: Helps give the blondies a light lift, ensuring they aren’t too dense.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness to perfection.
• Unsalted butter: Melted for ease, it brings richness and tenderness to the finished bars.
• Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness along with a hint of molasses flavor that complements the spices and apples.
• Large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the chewy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.

How to Make This Cinnamon Apple Blondies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining your baking pan. If you’re doubling the recipe, a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan is perfect. Then peel and core the apple, slicing it into small chunks that measure about ¾ to 1 cup. Toss these apple pieces with half a teaspoon of cinnamon so every bite bursts with warm spice.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, the remaining half teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. This step is where the flavors start mingling before they meet the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and fully combined — no pools of butter here! Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is silky before adding the dry mix.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you have a smooth batter without lumps. Now gently fold in the cinnamon-coated apple chunks. This is where the batter gets that delightful pops of apple throughout.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top for an even bake. If you’re using the doubled version in a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan, expect a bake time of about 26-28 minutes—watch for the top to set and a toothpick to come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the blondies cool completely before slicing gently using the parchment paper overhang or directly in the pan if greased.

How to Serve This Cinnamon Apple Blondies

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled blondies can add a touch of elegance and a pleasant sweetness contrast. For an extra burst of flavor, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside is simply heavenly.

Side Dishes

Serve these blondies with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a cozy mug of chai tea. The complementary spices in the drinks highlight the cinnamon and nutmeg in your blondies beautifully, making for a comforting treat any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your cinnamon apple blondies with whipped mascarpone and thin apple slices in small glass jars for a stunning dessert parfait. Or, cut the bars into mini squares and serve them as part of a dessert board featuring nuts, cheeses, and fresh fruit for a sophisticated touch at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover blondies fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors tend to deepen over time, making them even more delicious.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these blondies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen for up to 3 months, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, reheat blondie slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes. They’ll regain that soft, chewy texture and release the inviting cinnamon aroma once warmed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for these blondies?

Absolutely! While tart and firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best to hold their shape and balance sweetness, you can experiment with whatever you have. Just keep in mind that softer apples like McIntosh might make the blondies more moist and less textured.

What happens if I use grated apple instead of chopped?

Using grated apple offers a more subtle apple flavor and a uniformly moist texture without apple chunks. For this method, reduce the amount to about 2/3 cup so the batter maintains the right consistency.

Is it okay to substitute brown sugar for other sweeteners?

Light brown sugar is preferred for its flavor and moisture content, but if you don’t have it, mixing half dark brown sugar with half granulated sugar works well. This combination keeps the blondies from becoming too dense or wet.

How do I know when the blondies are perfectly baked?

Look for a set surface that isn’t jiggly and a toothpick inserted in the center that comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy rather than dry.

Can I double the recipe and use a 9×13 pan?

Yes! This recipe can be doubled and made in a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) pan. The blondies will come out thicker, so remember to bake them a little longer, around 26 to 28 minutes, to ensure they cook through evenly.

Final Thoughts

If you love the idea of a soft, spiced dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh, you’re going to adore making these Cinnamon Apple Blondies. This Cinnamon Apple Blondies, perfect for sharing with friends and family or saving for later. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for these blondies every time the apple season rolls around.

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