Get ready to bake a fall favorite: Apple Butter Blondies with Cinnamon Glaze! I’ll show you how to craft these soft, chewy blondies that burst with apple flavor and sweet spices. Topped with a rich cinnamon glaze, they’re perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients, easy steps, and tasty tips that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Apple Butter Blondies
– 1 cup apple butter
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon nutmeg
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Ingredients for Cinnamon Glaze
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk or apple juice
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Possible Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap apple butter with pumpkin puree for a different flavor. If you’re out of unsalted butter, use salted butter and cut back on salt. Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar for a unique taste. You can omit nuts for a nut-free version. For a vegan option, use flax eggs and a plant-based butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Blondies
Gather your ingredients first. You need 1 cup of apple butter, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and both brown and granulated sugar. In a big bowl, mix the melted butter, apple butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth. Next, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk after each egg. Now, take another bowl. Combine 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. Mix these dry ingredients together. Slowly add the dry mix into the wet mix. Stir gently. If you like nuts, fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts.
Making the Cinnamon Glaze
To make the glaze, grab a bowl. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk or apple juice, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Add a pinch of salt too. Whisk until the glaze is smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit of milk or juice. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Baking and Cooling the Blondies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or use parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the blondie batter into the dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean. Once baked, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top. Use a spoon or piping bag to make it pretty. Enjoy every bite!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Moist Blondies
To keep your blondies moist, use fresh apple butter. The apple butter adds rich flavor and moisture. Always measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can dry them out. I recommend using the spoon-and-level method. This way, you avoid packing the flour too tight. Do not over-mix the batter; mix until just combined. Over-mixing can make the blondies tough. For added moisture, let them cool completely before serving.
How to Achieve the Perfect Cinnamon Glaze
The cinnamon glaze should be smooth and pourable. Start with powdered sugar and add milk or apple juice. Whisk until it is lump-free. If it is too thick, add more liquid, one teaspoon at a time. If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar. A pinch of salt enhances the flavor. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled blondies for the best look. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for fun designs.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve these blondies warm or at room temperature. They taste great on their own. Pair them with warm apple cider for a cozy treat. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy touch. For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top. These blondies are perfect for fall gatherings or a snack at home. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family!
Variations
Adding Nuts or Chocolate
You can make your apple butter blondies even better by adding nuts or chocolate. Chopped walnuts add a nice crunch and pair well with the apple butter. If you prefer chocolate, try adding semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. Fold in about half a cup of either option when mixing the batter. This addition gives a rich taste that enhances the blondies’ flavor.
Making It Gluten-Free
To make these blondies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the texture of regular flour. Follow the same measurements, and your blondies will still taste delicious. You won’t miss the gluten, I promise!
Flavor Variations: Adding Spices
Enhance the flavor by adding spices! Besides cinnamon, consider adding ginger, allspice, or cloves. Just a pinch can change the profile of your blondies. For a warm twist, add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract. This small change can create a unique taste that surprises your guests. Experiment to find your favorite mix!
Storage Info
How to Store Apple Butter Blondies
To keep your Apple Butter Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will help lock in moisture. Place a piece of parchment paper between each blondie for easy removal. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is a good option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your blondies, first, let them cool completely. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Shelf Life and Best Practices
Apple Butter Blondies can last about a week at room temperature. For the best taste and texture, enjoy them within three days. If you refrigerate them, they can last longer but may dry out. To prevent this, always store them in an airtight container. For the best flavor, warm them slightly before serving. This will bring back that soft, gooey goodness!
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple butter?
Yes, you can use homemade apple butter. It adds a personal touch. The flavor may vary, but it enhances the blondies. Just ensure it has a smooth texture. This will keep the blondies moist and rich.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
To check if the blondies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The edges will also look slightly golden. Avoid overbaking for the best texture.
Can the cinnamon glaze be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cinnamon glaze ahead of time. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature. Stir until smooth before drizzling over the blondies. This saves time and keeps your dessert fresh.
This blog post covered how to make tasty apple butter blondies with a cinnamon glaze. You learned the right ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I also shared ways to tweak the recipe to fit your taste. Remember, storing and freezing your blondies properly keeps them fresh. Keep experimenting with flavors and enjoy sharing these treats! Your baking skills will shine with these easy steps and tips. Enjoy your delicious creations!
