Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful twist on classic blondies. Bursting with warm spices and fresh apple flavor, these treats are perfect for autumn or any time you want a cozy, sweet snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Step 2: Fold the diced apples into the dry mixture until evenly distributed. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan.
- Step 4: Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by blending the softened cream cheese with maple syrup until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Once the blondies have cooled, spread the maple cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor that complements the sweetness of the blondies.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
- For a vegan option, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup as the sweetener.
Storage
Store the blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft, melty treat.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?
It’s best to use fresh apples for the best texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding to avoid excess moisture.
How thick should the frosting be?
The frosting should be thick enough to spread easily but not runny. If it’s too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes to firm up before spreading.
PrintApple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of Apple Cinnamon Blondies topped with a luscious Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. These moist blondies blend tender chunks of apple with fragrant cinnamon for a perfect fall-inspired treat, finished with a sweet and tangy frosting made from cream cheese and pure maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 blondies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Blondies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined to infuse the blondies with warm spice.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and well incorporated.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until combined. Fold in the diced apples carefully to evenly distribute them without overmixing.
- Bake Blondies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Blondies: Remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to set properly before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract and continue to beat until combined and creamy.
- Frost Blondies: Once the blondies are fully cooled, spread the maple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Choose a crisp apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the blondies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- For thicker frosting, chill it for 10 minutes before spreading.
- Store blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This recipe can be doubled and baked in a 9×13 inch pan; adjust baking time accordingly.
Keywords: apple blondies, cinnamon blondies, maple cream cheese frosting, fall dessert, baked blondies, apple dessert
