Description
These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies combine the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with rich, buttery blondie batter, all topped with a sweet and silky maple glaze. Perfectly moist and tender, these bars offer a delightful balance of fruity sweetness and caramel notes, ideal for a cozy dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Apple Filling
- 2 large apples (chopped finely)
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Maple Glaze
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 11×7 inch baking pan with tin foil or grease it generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Apple Filling: In a skillet over medium-low heat, combine the finely chopped apples, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon butter, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes until the apples soften slightly and the flavors meld. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, cream 1 cup softened butter until light and fluffy, about 1 minute. Add both the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon salt until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until fully combined.
- Assemble Blondie Layers: Spread half of the blondie batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Using a spatula or your hands (the batter is thick), create an even layer.
- Add Apple Filling: Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the layer of blondie batter.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Spread the remaining blondie batter evenly over the apple filling, smoothing the top layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Maple Glaze: While the blondies bake, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon over low heat. Remove from heat once melted, then sift in 1/2 cup powdered sugar and whisk until smooth. Let the glaze cool and thicken for 8-10 minutes.
- Glaze and Cool: After removing the blondies from the oven, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Pour the maple glaze evenly over the top and allow it to set before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the blondies into 9 squares and enjoy this delicious treat.
Notes
- Make sure the apple filling is completely cooled before spreading it over the blondie batter to prevent the layers from blending.
- For a thicker glaze, allow it to cool longer before pouring over the blondies.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweet blondies.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
