Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. This recipe is a favorite in my home, not only for its delicious flavor but also for how it brings everyone together. Imagine biting into a warm, chewy blondie filled with tender apple pieces and a hint of cinnamon, all topped off with a luscious maple cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a little something sweet or for family gatherings where you want to impress your loved ones.

These blondies are not just about good taste; they are also incredibly easy to make! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful dessert. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to share this recipe with all your friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just melt, mix, and bake! This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The warm flavors of apples and cinnamon make these blondies a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a holiday gathering, these blondies fit any occasion perfectly.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an easy dessert whenever you need it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to see how simple and wholesome the ingredients for these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are! Gather these essentials, and you’ll be on your way to creating something truly special.

For the Blondies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (2 sticks)
• 1 2/3 cup brown sugar (330g), packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 290 grams all-purpose flour (2 1/3 cups), spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (approx. 2 medium)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

For the Frosting

• 6 oz cream cheese, full-fat, softened
• 1/2 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of fine sea salt

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few fun variations to consider:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Mix in chocolate: For a sweeter twist, fold in some chocolate chips instead of or alongside the apples.
• Spice it up: Experiment with additional spices like ginger or cloves for an extra flavor boost.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this treat without worry.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later on. Lightly grease both the parchment paper and any exposed parts of the pan. This ensures that your blondies will come out perfectly!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients for Blondies

In a large bowl, melt your butter—this gives your blondies that rich flavor they’re known for. Whisk in the brown sugar until smooth; this step helps create that lovely chewy texture. Add the eggs one at a time while whisking well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract; it adds warmth that pairs beautifully with the apples.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout your batter—this means every bite will be just as delicious as the last!

Step 4: Mix Batter and Fold in Apples

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing gently with a spatula until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing; we want those blondies to stay soft and chewy. Next up, fold in those diced apples (and nuts if you’re using them) until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Bake Blondies

Spoon your batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached—not completely clean!

Step 6: Cool Blondies

Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and place them on a wire rack. Let them cool completely—this usually takes about 1-2 hours—before frosting them so that everything stays nice and creamy.

Step 7: Prepare Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

While your blondies cool down, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! Make sure both your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before starting. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese until smooth—about 2-3 minutes should do it! Then add in softened butter and beat until light and fluffy before gradually mixing in powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.

Step 8: Assemble and Chill

When your blondies have cooled down completely (patience is key!), lift them from the pan using that handy parchment overhang. Spread an even layer of frosting across the top—it’s okay if it gets messy; that’s part of the charm! If desired, sprinkle some extra cinnamon or chopped nuts on top. Chill frosted blondies in the refrigerator for about 30-60 minutes to help set up that creamy frosting.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Finally! It’s time to slice up those beautiful blondies into squares or rectangles. For neat cuts, wipe your knife clean between slices—you want them looking as good as they taste! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three or four days (if they last that long!). Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Baking is all about precision and creativity, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your blondies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crunchy apples not only add flavor but also contribute to the texture of the blondies. Opt for varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of that delightful chewy texture.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allowing the blondies to cool completely before frosting helps prevent the frosting from melting into the batter, keeping your dessert beautifully layered.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting. This allows for a smoother blend and fluffy texture in your frosting.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to sweetness. Feel free to tweak the amount of maple syrup in the frosting based on your personal taste!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with their luscious Maple Cream Cheese Frosting is an opportunity to impress your guests! Here are some ideas for presenting this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds visual appeal and enhances the warm flavors of the blondies.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a beautiful presentation.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosted blondies can elevate their sweetness and create a stunning look.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm blondies, creating a comforting contrast.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the blondies and adds a burst of color to your plate.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve these blondies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy pairing that highlights their flavors beautifully.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds a light and fluffy touch that complements the rich flavors without overpowering them.

Enjoy making these delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep! They store beautifully and can be made ahead of time for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep them layered with parchment paper between to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut blondies into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Enjoy frozen blondies for up to 3 months!

Reheating

• For best results, let the blondies thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While any sweet apple works wonderfully, consider using Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for a delightful flavor contrast.

How do I make these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a good binding agent to keep your blondies chewy!

How can I make the frosting thicker?

If you’d like a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Can I replace cream cheese in the frosting?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting as much as I do! This recipe combines comforting flavors and textures that are simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or just a treat for yourself, these blondies are sure to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!