Jump to Recipe Print RecipeFall is here, and the scent of warm spices and freshly baked desserts fills the air! There’s something undeniably comforting about indulging in rich, nutty Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze, especially as the leaves turn golden and the days get cooler. This recipe brings together soft, gooey blondies that burst with sweet apple flavor and cozy spices, making it the perfect treat for autumn gatherings or a quiet evening at home. What’s more, they can be whipped up quickly—no mixer needed—and are guaranteed to impress friends and family alike. So, ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of autumnal delights? Let’s dive into this easy, scrumptious recipe! Why are these blondies so irresistible? Decadent Flavor: The rich, nutty essence of brown butter combined with sweet apple butter makes every bite a delightful experience. Easy to Make: With no mixer required, these blondies come together effortlessly—perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Perfect for Fall: Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give these blondies a cozy, autumnal vibe, making them an ideal treat for seasonal gatherings. Versatile Enjoyment: Whether paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own, they are sure to please friends and family alike. Quick and Simple: You can whip up a batch in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings! If you’re in the mood for more autumn-inspired sweets, consider trying our delicious Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful brunch option! Brown Butter Apple Blondies Ingredients For the Blondies • Salted Butter – Adds richness and a nutty flavor when browned; substitute unsalted butter if desired. • Apple Butter – Acts as a natural sweetener for moisture; can be store-bought or homemade. • Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and enhances caramel notes; replace with granulated sugar if needed. • Large Eggs – Binds ingredients for structure; ensure they’re at room temperature for the best results. • Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; use pure vanilla for a more aromatic taste. • All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the blondies; for a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, like Cup4Cup. • Baking Powder – Helps the blondies rise; ensure freshness for optimal lift. • Cinnamon – Offers warm, comforting fall flavors; adjust to personal taste. • Nutmeg – Enhances the spice profile; freshly grated yields a stronger flavor. • Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; regular table salt can be used as an alternative. • Honeycrisp Apples – Provides texture, flavor, and moisture; any tart apple works well as a substitute. For the Cinnamon Maple Glaze • Maple Syrup – Used for sweetness and flavor in the glaze; can be substituted with honey or agave syrup. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; sift it to avoid lumps. • Flaky Sea Salt – Adds a delightful finishing touch that contrasts with sweetness; optional. These Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are a delightful way to welcome the cozy season! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze. Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later. This preparation will ensure your Brown Butter Apple Blondies cook evenly and release smoothly after baking. Step 2: Brown the Butter In a medium pot, melt the salted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Watch closely during this process to prevent burning, as the butter can quickly shift from brown to burnt. Once ready, remove it from the heat to let it cool slightly. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Stir in the apple butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar into the warm browned butter, mixing until well incorporated. Allow this mixture to cool for about 5 minutes, ensuring it’s warm but not hot, as you don’t want to cook the eggs. Then, whisk in the large eggs and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt to combine. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies, so stop as soon as no flour streaks remain. Step 5: Add to the Pan Pour the luscious blondie batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The batter should look thick and gooey. This step sets the foundation for your Brown Butter Apple Blondies, which will be topped with sweet apple pieces shortly. Step 6: Prepare the Apples In a small bowl, toss the diced Honeycrisp apples with the remaining brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. This will enhance their natural sweetness and add texture to your blondies. Evenly distribute the apple mixture over the blondie batter, ensuring every bite is filled with fruity goodness. Step 7: Bake the Blondies Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the center to set, and check with a toothpick—it should come out with moist crumbs. If any wet batter clings to the toothpick, bake for an additional 5 minutes for perfectly chewy blondies. Step 8: Make the Glaze While the blondies cool, prepare the cinnamon maple glaze. In a small pot, brown more salted butter gently over low heat, mixing in maple syrup, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and flaky sea salt. Stir until the glaze is smooth and pourable, with a delightful aroma that complements your Brown Butter Apple Blondies. Step 9: Drizzle and Set Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled blondies, allowing it to cascade over the edges for a beautiful finish. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before cutting into bars. This step enhances the flavor and adds that final touch to your delicious dessert. Expert Tips for Brown Butter Apple Blondies Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and quality butter for the best flavor. Old ingredients can affect the taste and texture of your blondies. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your blondies tender and soft. Overmixing can lead to dense results. Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs. If it’s wet, bake for a few more minutes to avoid undercooked blondies. Apple Prep: Toss apples with brown sugar and cinnamon before adding them on top. This helps enhance their flavor and ensures sweetness throughout your Brown Butter Apple Blondies. Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to fit your taste—more spice can elevate the autumn flavors even further! Storage Tips: Keep these blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze without the glaze for freshness later! Brown Butter Apple Blondies Variations Feel free to explore your creative side and make these blondies even more special with delightful twists! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend, like Cup4Cup, to cater to gluten sensitivities while keeping them deliciously moist. Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the flavors of brown butter and apple. Pumpkin Twist: Replace the apple butter with pumpkin puree for a seasonal variation. This will introduce a whole new depth of flavor that screams fall! Spice Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cardamom or ginger for an added layer of warmth and spice. This subtle kick will elevate each bite. Maple Exchange: If you’re out of maple syrup, you can swap it for honey or agave nectar in the glaze. Each option brings a unique sweetness. Alternate Fruits: Switch up the Honeycrisp apples with diced pears or even chopped dried cranberries for a different fruit experience. Both options complement the flavors beautifully. Choco-Chip Delight: Add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a rich touch. The chocolate will melt and create delightful pockets of sweetness. Extra Glaze: Don’t just stop at a drizzle! Pour an additional layer of glaze on top for an indulgent finish. It’s absolutely worth it! These adjustments not only make these Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze your own but can also create delicious textures and flavor profiles to savor. If you’re inspired by these variations, why not pair them with our irresistibly soft Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls for a feast that embraces all things fall? What to Serve with Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Indulging in these warm, gooey treats opens up a world of delicious possibilities for your perfect fall meal! Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess to the rich, spiced flavors of the blondies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. Hot Coffee: The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee complements the nutty caramel notes of the blondies, making each bite even more satisfying. Spiced Chai Tea: With its aromatic spices, chai enhances the warm flavors of the blondies, providing a cozy and comforting drink option for fall. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on each bar enhances the sweetness and gives an extra layer of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the apple. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad made with citrus and berries adds brightness to the meal, balancing the rich sweetness of the blondies. Cream Cheese Frosting: For an indulgent twist, spread a light layer of cream cheese frosting on the blondies, offering a tangy contrast to the sweetness. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola on top adds crunch and complements the chewy texture of the blondies, bringing a delightful contrast. Mulled Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider brings all the autumn vibes and perfectly complements the apple flavor in the blondies for a cozy beverage pairing. How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Apple Blondies Room Temperature: Store your blondies in an airtight container for 3-4 days at room temperature, ensuring they remain soft and gooey. Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week in a well-sealed container. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies without the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving for the best texture. Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat individual blondies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, enjoying that freshly baked warmth again! Make Ahead Options These Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered. To keep the apples from browning, toss the diced Honeycrisp apples in a squeeze of lemon juice before folding them into the batter. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into the prepared baking dish, sprinkle with the apple mixture, and follow the normal baking instructions. Drizzle with glaze after cooling for just as delicious results! Enjoy the time-saving benefits during those busy weeknights! Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best apples for this recipe? Absolutely! Honeycrisp apples are a fantastic choice due to their sweetness and crunch. Look for firm apples without dark spots or bruises. If you can’t find Honeycrisp, any tart apple like Granny Smith will work well, providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the blondies. How should I store my blondies? You can store your Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days to keep them soft and gooey. For extended freshness, place them in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed tightly to avoid drying out. Can I freeze these blondies? Yes, you can freeze your blondies! For optimal results, freeze them without the glaze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours, or pop them in the microwave for a quick 10-15 seconds to regain their warm texture. What should I do if my blondies turn out too dense? Very often, a dense texture can be attributed to overmixing the batter. Mixing should only continue until the dry ingredients are just combined. If your blondies do end up dense, try adding a little more moisture with a splash of milk or cream before baking next time to help balance out the texture. Are these blondies suitable for gluten-free diets? Absolutely! To make the Brown Butter Apple Blondies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend such as Cup4Cup. This will maintain the texture and taste while ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy them! What if I have leftovers? Very! If you have any blondies left, simply store them in an airtight container and enjoy them as a sweet treat throughout the week. For best results, reheating them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds brings back their delightful gooeyness! Irresistible Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Deliciously gooey Brown Butter Apple Blondies with a sweet Cinnamon Maple Glaze, perfect for autumn gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 240 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Blondies1 cup Salted Butter Substitute unsalted butter if desired.1 cup Apple Butter Can be store-bought or homemade.1 cup Light Brown Sugar Replace with granulated sugar if needed.2 large Eggs Ensure they’re at room temperature.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.2 cups All-Purpose Flour For gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free blend.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensure freshness for optimal rise.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adjust to personal taste.1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Freshly grated yields stronger flavor.1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Can substitute with regular table salt.2 cups Honeycrisp Apples Any tart apple may be used.For the Cinnamon Maple Glaze1/2 cup Maple Syrup Can be substituted with honey or agave.2 cups Powdered Sugar Sift to avoid lumps.1/2 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt Optional finishing touch. Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishMedium potMixing BowlsSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.Melt the salted butter in a medium pot over medium heat, stirring for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.Stir in the apple butter and light brown sugar, mix until incorporated, then allow to cool slightly.Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth, then combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl.Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients carefully until just combined.Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.Toss diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon, then spread the mixture on top of the batter.Bake for 25–30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness, then let cool.Prepare the glaze by browning more salted butter and stirring in maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth.Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled blondies and let it set before cutting into bars. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg NotesStore blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze without the glaze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!