Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that brings together the comforting warmth of autumn spices with a luscious, creamy topping, look no further than this Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These blondies are perfectly moist thanks to tender bits of fresh apple and the cozy hint of cinnamon and nutmeg in every bite. Topped with a dreamy maple-infused cream cheese frosting, this treat feels like a warm hug from the inside out and will quickly become your new favorite to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started is a breeze because this recipe relies on straightforward, everyday ingredients that combine effortlessly to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays a vital role, from the butter creating that irresistibly tender base to the apples adding moisture and a fresh fruity bite.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks, melted): The foundation of our blondie batter, providing rich flavor and tenderness.
• Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and moistness to the blondies.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness and contributes to the perfect crumb.
• Eggs (2 large): These bind everything together and help create a lovely, cakey structure.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors with its fragrant warmth.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The body of the blondies, giving them structure without being dense.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the blondies rise gently for a tender crumb.
• Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Works with the acids for balanced leavening and texture.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Elevates the sweetness and spices perfectly.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The signature spice delivering classic apple dessert warmth.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle hint of complexity and depth.
• Chopped apples (1 cup, peeled): Fresh and tender, these infuse moisture and a fresh burst of flavor.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the frosting, making it rich, creamy, and tangy.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Creates a luxurious, smooth frosting texture.
• Powdered sugar (3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
• Pure maple syrup (1/4 cup): Infuses the frosting with an irresistible natural sweetness and depth.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Complements the maple and cream cheese for a perfectly balanced frosting.

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and getting your baking pan ready by greasing and lining it with parchment paper ensures your blondies bake evenly and come out cleanly. This simple step sets you up for success right from the start.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter together with both types of sugar until beautifully combined. The mixture will be glossy and smooth, setting a rich, sweet base for the blondie batter.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated and silky. This mixture will be the glue holding all the flavors together perfectly.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining the spices with the leavening powders here ensures even distribution, so every bite has that delightful flavor burst.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, folding just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a gentle touch keeps the blondies tender and light.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the peeled, chopped apples into the batter, making certain they’re evenly spread. These apples add surprise bursts of moisture and a sweet, fresh contrast to the warmly spiced batter.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the blondie batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. The smell that will fill your kitchen here is just pure magic!

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is key because your frosting will go on smoothest without any heat.

Step 9: Make the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Then add the powdered sugar gradually, beating well after each addition. Finally, mix in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until silky and perfectly sweetened.

Step 10: Frost and Cut

Spread that luscious maple cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled blondies. Once frosted, cut into squares and get ready to enjoy a truly irresistible dessert!

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

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance and texture, sprinkle some chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can also elevate presentation and flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

These blondies are wonderfully versatile but shine especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A hot cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee also makes the perfect companion for cozying up with these treats.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the apple cinnamon blondies with whipped cream and thin apple slices in parfait glasses for an elegant dessert twist. Alternatively, cut them into bite-sized squares and serve them on a dessert platter with seasonal fruit for a festive gathering treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover blondies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or a sweet breakfast treat.

Freezing

If you want to extend their life, you can freeze unfrosted blondies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight and frost just before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the blondies warm, gently reheat a piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Adding the maple cream cheese frosting after warming keeps it creamy and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully. Just remember that tart apples add a nice contrast to the sweet blondies, while sweeter varieties will enhance the overall sweetness.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use dairy-free cream cheese to make the frosting. Maple syrup is naturally vegan, so this frosting can easily fit a dairy-free diet with those swaps.

How do I know when the blondies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the blondies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter, your blondies are perfectly baked—moist but set.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the blondie batter?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried cranberries fold in beautifully and add texture and bursts of flavor. Just fold them in with the apples during batter preparation.

How long does the frosting keep once applied?

Maple cream cheese frosting tastes best fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Remember to bring the blondies to room temperature before serving if chilled.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the combination of warm cinnamon-spiced apple blondies topped with luscious maple cream cheese frosting — it’s a recipe that feels like home in every bite. I encourage you to try this Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite at your table. Whether for holidays, gatherings, or just because, these blondies are pure joy to make and share.

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