Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

The Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful dessert that you won’t want to miss. These blondies combine the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon, creating a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, these blondies will impress everyone with their rich flavor and soft texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a warm and comforting taste that is hard to resist.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 20 minutes, you can whip up these blondies without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations, these blondies are sure to please.
• Delicious Maple Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy layer that elevates the dish to another level.
• Great for Sharing: Cut them into squares for easy serving, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13 baking dish
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly; larger bowls allow more space for mixing without spills.
• Hand mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly; using a hand mixer saves time and effort compared to manual mixing.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients gently; it ensures nothing gets left behind in the bowl.
• 9×13 baking dish: Provides even baking surface area; this size ensures your blondies cook uniformly.

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Ingredients

For the Blondies

• 1 cup butter
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups diced apples

For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large pan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, increase the heat slightly to low-medium until it becomes slightly browned. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

While the butter melts, combine your dry ingredients. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Sauté Apples

In another large pan, sauté diced apples in butter over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Add in additional cinnamon during this process to enhance flavor. Remove from heat once done.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla using either a hand mixer or whisk until well combined. Gently fold in the dry ingredients followed by the sautéed apples using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Bake Blondies

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for approximately 35-45 minutes or until golden brown on top and firm in the center (not jiggly). Keep an eye on them as bake times may vary based on your oven.

Step 7: Prepare Frosting

While your blondies are baking, prepare the maple cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, mix together softened cream cheese and butter using a hand mixer until fully combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and maple syrup while mixing until creamy.

Step 8: Cool Blondies

Once baked, remove blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about one hour before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely (about another hour) before frosting.

Step 9: Frost & Serve

Spread your maple cream cheese frosting over cooled blondies evenly. Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top if desired. Allow frosting to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares for serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices complement the warm flavors of the blondies, adding a crisp texture.
• Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries can add a tart contrast that balances the sweetness.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing; the creaminess enhances the frosting’s maple flavor.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: For an extra kick, cinnamon-flavored ice cream brings out the spices in the blondies.

Enjoy with Beverages

• Coffee: A cup of rich coffee can enhance the sweetness and provide a cozy pairing.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, offers a refreshing contrast to the rich blondies.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Apple Cinnamon Blondies involves attention to detail. Here are some tips for success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh apples and high-quality butter. This will enhance the overall flavor of your blondies.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense blondies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for best results.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure your blondies are fully cooled before adding frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cinnamon Blondies can create a well-rounded meal or snack option. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and tang that complements the sweetness of the blondies.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over each serving for an indulgent treat that enhances the flavors.
3. Mixed Nuts: Offer crunchy roasted nuts on the side for added texture and richness.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide freshness, balancing out the richness of the dessert.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for contrasting flavors.
6. Chai-Spiced Muffins: These muffins echo similar spices found in your blondies, creating harmony in flavor profiles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough blondies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Using warm butter: If your butter is too hot, it can cook the eggs when mixed in. Allow melted butter to cool slightly before adding.
• Skipping the cooling time: Frosting warm blondies will cause it to melt. Always let the blondies cool completely before frosting.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can significantly affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting.

How do I know when my blondies are done?

The tops should be golden brown and the center should feel firm, not jiggly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with few crumbs.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile that still pairs well with cinnamon.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can replace maple syrup with agave nectar or honey for a similar sweetness and texture in the frosting.

How long do these blondies last?

When stored properly, they will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Blondies with a Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different fruits. Try making them today; they make an excellent treat any time!