Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a treat that combines sweetness, warmth, and a hint of nostalgia, you’re in for a delight with these Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. Every bite of these blondies is packed with tender apples and cozy cinnamon, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around!

What makes this recipe truly special is the luxurious maple cream cheese frosting that takes these blondies to the next level. It’s creamy, sweet, and pairs perfectly with the spiced apple base. Trust me, once you try making these blondies, they will become a regular on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these decadent treats in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of apple and cinnamon; it’s a flavor that brings back happy memories!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These blondies store well, so you can enjoy them throughout the week or save them for special occasions.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The rich flavors of butter and brown sugar combined with fresh apples make every bite heavenly.
• Customizable Toppings: The maple cream cheese frosting can be adjusted to suit your taste—add more maple syrup if you love that flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything together for our Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting!

For the Blondies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add More Spice: If you’re a spice lover, try adding nutmeg or cloves for an extra kick of flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Simply leave out the walnuts or pecans for a nut-free version everyone can enjoy.
• Fruit Swap: Consider using pears instead of apples for a different fruity twist that’s just as delicious.
• Frosting Alternatives: Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar in the frosting for a unique flavor profile.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your blondies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture creates the rich base of your blondies and helps incorporate air for a fluffy texture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure even distribution of leavening agents throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those blondies to stay soft and chewy!

Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in diced apples and nuts (if using). The fresh apple pieces will provide bursts of flavor and moisture in every bite.

Step 6: Bake Your Blondies

Pour the batter into a greased or lined 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Keep an eye on them toward the end; we want that perfect chewy texture!

Enjoy preparing these Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. They are sure to become one of your favorite recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Baking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve! Here are some handy tips to ensure your blondies turn out perfectly.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more easily into the batter and frosting, resulting in a smoother texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense blondies. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Choose the right apples: Opt for sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast in your blondies. Their firmness will also hold up well during baking.
• Let them cool before frosting: Allow the blondies to cool completely before adding the maple cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth in your blondies. These spices complement the apple and cinnamon beautifully!

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

Serving these delectable blondies can enhance their appeal even more! Here are some creative ideas to present this scrumptious dessert.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some additional chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosted blondies for added crunch and flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce on top adds an indulgent touch that complements the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with berries and citrus can balance out the sweetness of the blondies.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing these blondies with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai enhances their cozy vibes, making it an enjoyable treat any time of day!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting will surely impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

These decadent apple cinnamon blondies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. They maintain their delicious flavor and texture, making them an ideal treat to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow blondies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut blondies into squares and allow them to cool completely.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove blondies from the refrigerator or freezer.
• If frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight first.
• Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until soft.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious blondies? Here are some answers!

Can I use other fruits instead of apples in the Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting?

Absolutely! While apples are the star of this recipe, you could try using diced pears or even peaches for a different twist. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary, as different fruits may affect moisture levels.

How can I make the frosting for my Decadent Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet frosting, simply reduce the amount of powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired sweetness. You could also add more cream cheese to balance out the flavors.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or mascarpone cheese if you’re looking for something richer but still want to avoid cream cheese. Adjust the maple syrup as needed based on your choice!

How do I know when my blondies are done baking?

The blondies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these decadent apple cinnamon blondies with maple cream cheese frosting as I am! They’re not only delicious but also bring warmth and comfort to any gathering or quiet night in. Enjoy making this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!