As I stood in my kitchen, the inviting aroma of cinnamon wafted through the air, transporting me to cozy autumn days spent with family. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Pie Blondies, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that combines warm, spiced apples with the comforting essence of a blondie. This recipe is a breeze, requiring just one bowl and under 30 minutes of baking time, making it an ideal solution for anyone craving a homemade treat without the fuss. Not only are these blondies a fantastic way to savor fall flavors, but they also offer a gluten-free option for those looking to indulge without compromise. So, who’s ready to fall in love with this sweet and chewy delight?
Why Are These Blondies So Irresistible?
Quick and Easy: With just one bowl and under 30 minutes of baking, these blondies are perfect for busy days when you crave something sweet.
Heavenly Flavor: The cinnamon-spiced apples meld beautifully with the rich, chewy blondie base, creating an unforgettable taste sensation.
Gluten-Free Option: For those with dietary preferences, a simple swap to gluten-free flour ensures everyone can indulge without worry.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist, making every batch unique.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These blondies make an excellent dessert for gatherings; serve them warm with ice cream for a comforting finish!
Be sure to check out my other recipes like Baked Apple Fritters or Pineapple Iced Tea for more delicious homemade options.
Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies Ingredients
• For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – The foundation of moisture and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness; light brown sugar can be used for a milder taste.
- Egg – Acts as a binder ensuring the blondies hold together well.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour for a gluten-free cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies recipe.
- Baking Powder – Helps the blondies rise for a fluffy texture.
- Ground Cinnamon – Essential for the classic apple pie flavor; no substitutions recommended.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; essential if using unsalted butter.
- Apple (Gala) – The star ingredient that provides freshness and moisture; other firm apples like Honeycrisp also work well.
These ingredients are the key to creating a delicious batch of cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies that you and your loved ones will cherish. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. If you opt for a 9×9-inch pan, adjust your baking time slightly. This ensures your cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies will bake evenly.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter until liquid, then add 1 cup of brown sugar. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and glossy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The warm butter will help dissolve the sugar, creating a rich, sweet base that enhances the flavor of the blondies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack in 1 large egg and pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the egg is fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes more. The mixture should appear creamy and well-combined, setting the stage for the cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies’ delightful flavor profile that will shine through.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the dry ingredients: 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until no visible flour clumps remain, being careful not to overmix. This ensures your blondies retain that soft, chewy texture we all love.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Once the batter is smooth, fold in 1 cup of chopped Gala apples, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. The bits of apple should be visible throughout the batter, creating a lovely landscape of flavor and texture in your cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly. Make sure the apples are well-distributed across the surface. This step sets your blondies up for an even bake, allowing that rich flavor to develop perfectly while cooking.
Step 7: Bake the Blondies
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Start checking for doneness at around the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center—when it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your blondies are ready. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out and place them onto a wire rack. After cooling completely, cut them into squares and get ready to savor the sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple goodness of your blondies!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies
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Perfect Pan Size: Ensure you’re using the recommended 8×8-inch pan for optimal baking. If using a different size, adjust baking times accordingly to avoid overbaking.
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Mixing Technique: Be cautious not to overmix the batter after adding the flour. This keeps your blondies soft and chewy, which is what we all adore in this cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies recipe.
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Apple Choices: While Gala apples work beautifully, feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for varying sweetness and tartness that can elevate your blondies.
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Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a handful of walnuts or pecans to the batch for a delightful crunch, complementing the softness of the blondies.
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Serving Suggestions: To elevate your dessert, serve these blondies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and flavorful. For best results, chop the apples right before mixing them in to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan. This way, you can enjoy these warm, gooey blondies with minimal effort, making busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings a breeze. With these make-ahead tips, you can savor that comforting cinnamon-spiced flavor whenever the craving strikes!
Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies Recipe Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own—you’re going to love the delicious possibilities!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend to enjoy the same delightful taste without gluten.
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Nutty Bliss: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and extra flavor in every bite.
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Sweet Surprise: Add chocolate chips or caramel bits for a delightful sweetness that complements the spiced apples perfectly.
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Fruity Twist: Experiment with other apple varieties, like Sunny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a unique flavor profile and texture.
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Spice it Up: Boost the warmth of your blondies by adding a dash of ground ginger or cloves along with the cinnamon for an aromatic twist.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a luscious, dairy-free treat.
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Hearty Additions: Fold in oats or granola for added texture and nutritional value, making these blondies a bit heartier.
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Double the Flavor: Drizzle your blondies with a homemade caramel sauce or chocolate ganache before serving for an indulgent finish.
For more delicious ideas and inspirations, don’t forget to check out my Creamy Mushroom Chicken or Corn Chicken Rice recipes!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful chewiness.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the blondies in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before indulging.
Reheating: Enjoy your stored blondies warm! Microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to bring back their soft, gooey goodness.
What to Serve with Easy Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Pie Blondies
These delightful blondies perfectly complement a variety of dishes, creating a warming and satisfying meal experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy scoop melts beautifully over the warm blondies, adding richness to every bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel elevates the dessert with additional sweetness and a delicious contrast.
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Coffee or Latte: Enjoy the flavors of cinnamon and warm apples with a steaming mug of coffee, creating a cozy pairing for dessert.
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Maple Syrup: A splash of maple adds earthiness, enhancing the autumn flavors in the blondies while amplifying sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream provides a delightful contrast in texture, softening the richness of the blondies.
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Fresh Apples: For a refreshing touch, serve thinly sliced apples alongside to balance the dessert’s sweetness and offer a crunchy element.
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Chai Tea: This spiced tea complements the warm flavors of the blondies, making every moment spent indulging a memorable one.
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Nutty Topping: Sprinkle some grated pecans or walnuts for an extra dose of crunch that marries beautifully with the soft texture of the blondies.
Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use firm apples like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith. Gala apples add sweetness, while Granny Smith brings a tart contrast, making it a delightful combo with the blondie base.
How should I store my blondies?
Keep your cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This preserves their delicious chewiness. If you prefer them firmer, you can refrigerate them, where they will stay fresh for up to 7 days.
Can I freeze cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies?
Yes! For freezing, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. These treats will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, and warm them up in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked taste!
Why are my blondies too cakey?
If your blondies turn out cakey, it might be from overmixing the batter after adding the flour. To avoid this, mix until just combined. Also, ensure you’re baking them for the correct time and monitor them closely; they should come out with a few moist crumbs on the toothpick.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this recipe includes eggs, butter, and wheat (in all-purpose flour). For a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re concerned about dairy, coconut oil is a fantastic dairy-free substitute for unsalted butter.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Very much! Feel free to mix in a handful of walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. This not only enhances the overall taste but also brings an extra crunch to your cinnamon spiced apple pie blondies.
Cinnamon Spiced Apple Pie Blondies Recipe You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until liquid, then add 1 cup of brown sugar. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Gradually add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped Gala apples evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before lifting out using the parchment paper and cool completely on a wire rack.
