Name: Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (can use unsalted if adjusting salt); 1 cup Apple Butter (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (can substitute with granulated sugar); 2 large Large Eggs (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (pure for superior taste); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (use fresh for optimal lift); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg (freshly grated preferred); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (regular table salt is a substitute); 2 medium Honeycrisp Apples (diced); 1/2 cup Maple Syrup (honey or agave syrup are alternatives); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sift to avoid lumps); 1/4 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (optional but recommended)

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As I poured the golden brown butter into my mixing bowl, the warm, nutty aroma floated through the kitchen, instantly sparking a sense of comfort that only comes with the fall season. These Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are my go-to fall indulgence, bringing together the rich flavor of browned butter and the sweetness of apple butter for a treat that’s as delicious as it is easy to whip up. With a gooey texture and fragrant spices, they’re perfect for cozy gatherings or simply satisfying your sweet cravings. Plus, they’re adaptable—just swap in gluten-free flour for a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy. What’s your favorite way to embrace the flavors of fall?

Why Choose Brown Butter Apple Blondies?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and apple butter creates a rich, complex flavor that embodies the essence of fall.

Gooey Delight: Each blondie boasts a soft and chewy texture, making it the perfect comforting dessert.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious blondies ready in no time.

Gluten-Free Option: Easily swap in a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy treat, these blondies are sure to earn rave reviews. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or serve with a side of Honey Butter Chicken for a heartwarming meal that celebrates the season!

Brown Butter Apple Blondies Ingredients

• Dive into the comforting world of Brown Butter Apple Blondies with these essential ingredients!

For the Blondies

Salted Butter – Adds richness and nutty flavor when browned; unsalted can be used if adjusting salt.
Apple Butter – Acts as a natural sweetener and keeps blondies moist; store-bought or homemade works well.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and enhances caramel notes; substitute with granulated sugar but expect slight flavor changes.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together; make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
Vanilla Extract – Adds lovely depth of flavor; use pure vanilla for superior taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the blondies; for gluten-free, swap for a blend like Cup4Cup.
Baking Powder – Ensures the blondies rise properly; use fresh for optimal lift.
Cinnamon – Imparts warm autumn flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Nutmeg – Enhances the spice profile; freshly grated gives a stronger flavor.
Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness of the blondies; regular table salt is a viable substitute.
Honeycrisp Apples – Offers texture and flavor; other tart apples can also work nicely.

For the Cinnamon Maple Glaze

Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and flavor to the glaze; honey or agave syrup are good alternatives.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; sift it to avoid lumps for a smooth finish.
Flaky Sea Salt – Adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness; optional but recommended for an extra zing.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will help your Brown Butter Apple Blondies bake evenly and make it effortless to lift them out once they’re done.

Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium pot over medium heat, add the salted butter. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until it melts and transforms into a light brown color, releasing a delightful nutty aroma. Be attentive, as this step is crucial for achieving the rich flavor that enhances your blondies. Remove the pot from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Once the brown butter has cooled for about 5 minutes, stir in the apple butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth. Next, whisk in the large eggs one at a time, ensuring they are at room temperature for optimal blending. Finally, add the pure vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated for a deliciously aromatic base.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter for your Brown Butter Apple Blondies should be thick and slightly lumpy, ensuring a tender crumb.

Step 5: Add the Apples
Dice the Honeycrisp apples into small pieces and toss them with the remaining brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. Gently fold the apple mixture into the blondie batter, distributing the juicy apple chunks evenly throughout. This step adds wonderful texture and flavor to the blondies.

Step 6: Bake the Blondies
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The blondies are done when the center is set—check with a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If they appear liquid, give them an extra 5 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Maple Glaze
While the blondies cool, prepare the glaze. In a small pot, brown some butter over low heat until it gives off that wonderful nutty scent. Once browned, quickly mix in the maple syrup, sifted powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Stir until the glaze is smooth and well combined, ready to drizzle.

Step 8: Glaze and Cool the Blondies
Once the blondies have completely cooled, drizzle the cinnamon maple glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes, letting its sweetness soak into the blondies while adding a beautiful finish. Once set, slice into bars and savor the bliss of your Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze.

Expert Tips for Brown Butter Apple Blondies

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices to ensure your blondies rise and taste their best.

• Room Temperature Eggs: For a smoother batter, make sure your large eggs are at room temperature before mixing them in—this helps with better emulsification.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense texture rather than the desired tender blondies.

• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures your Brown Butter Apple Blondies are perfectly baked.

• Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your personal taste, or add a pinch of cardamom for extra warmth.

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your wet and dry ingredients separately and refrigerating them. Additionally, you can dice and toss the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon a day ahead to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the components and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. For the glaze, you can make it ahead and refrigerate it; before serving, warm it slightly to maintain its smooth texture. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade blondies with minimal effort during busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze

Indulging in these deliciously gooey blondies creates a warm, autumnal experience that calls for the perfect accompaniments.

Warm Spiced Cider: A fragrant cup of spiced cider enhances the cozy flavors of the blondies, making every bite even more comforting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm blondies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee adds a gentle bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the blondies while enhancing their rich flavors.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy with a hint of spice, cinnamon whipped cream provides an airy texture that complements the chewy blondies perfectly.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the blondies adds an extra layer of indulgent sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and apple flavors.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea elevate the overall experience, delivering warmth and comfort as you savor each delicious bite.
Apple Halves: Fresh apple slices add a crisp and refreshing contrast to the soft, gooey blondies, reinforcing the apple goodness in your dessert.
Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie offers a savory contrast, making for an interesting twist on traditional dessert pairings.

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Apple Blondies

Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their gooey texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the blondies without the glaze for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: Enjoy warmed blondies by microwaving them for 10-15 seconds or for a few minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a delightful treat!

Brown Butter Apple Blondies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Brown Butter Apple Blondies and make them truly your own!

Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend like Cup4Cup for a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. It preserves that lovely chewy texture without sacrificing flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the gooey blondies. Nuts not only enhance texture but also add a toasty flavor that elevates this comforting dessert.
Different Fruits: Try using pumpkin or pear butter in place of apple butter for a seasonal twist. Each fruit offers a unique sweetness and moisture, allowing you to enjoy variety throughout fall and winter.
Spicy Kick: Boost the warmth by introducing spices such as cardamom or ground ginger. Just a pinch can transform the flavor profile and add a new layer of cozy comfort.
Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your blondies by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top instead of maple glaze. This indulgence adds extra richness and a gooey sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
Add Chocolate: Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a delicious contrast to the fruity flavors. The melty chocolate pieces will create a luxurious experience with every bite.
Extra Apple: Enhance the apples by tossing in diced dried apples along with the fresh ones for an extra burst of apple goodness. This will add a chewy texture and intensify the fruity flavor.
Sweetener Swap: Feel free to use honey or agave syrup in place of maple syrup in the glaze for a different sweet touch. Each offers its unique sweetness and can reflect your personal taste preferences.

No matter how you choose to customize your blondies, they’re bound to bring warmth and comfort that’ll make your family swoon. And while you’re on a baking spree, don’t forget to check out my recipe for Garlic Butter Salmon or indulge in some sweet Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls alongside your baked delights!

Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using Honeycrisp apples for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. However, any tart apple will work well to provide both flavor and moisture. Granny Smith or Fuji apples are also good alternatives for a deliciously fruity kick!

How long do Brown Butter Apple Blondies last?
Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you want them to last even longer, transfer to the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze these blondies, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Brown Butter Apple Blondies without the glaze, first, let them cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving, and consider warming them up for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

What if my blondies are too dense?
If your blondies end up dense, it’s possible they were overmixed or baked for too long. To achieve that perfect gooey texture, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined—no more! To check for doneness, insert a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, indicating they are perfectly baked.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes! To make gluten-free Brown Butter Apple Blondies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, like Cup4Cup. This ensures that everyone at your gathering can enjoy these delightful treats without worry. Just remember to check the blend for a good rise!

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
For those with nut allergies, ensure that you’re using nut-free alternatives to any ingredients like butter (if using nut-based butters) and check the flour blend for cross-contamination. Additionally, you can easily omit the flaky sea salt topping if you’re concerned about sodium or dietary restrictions. Always be mindful of ingredient labels to accommodate personal allergies!