If you are on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly balances warmth, comfort, and a delightful chewiness, you need to try this Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe. Imagine biting into golden blondies bursting with tender, spiced apple chunks and a subtle crunch from nuts, all wrapped up in a beautifully moist and chewy texture. This recipe truly brings together the cozy flavors of fall in every bite, making it a staple to bring out whenever you want to impress friends, cozy up with family, or simply treat yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to the magic in this Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create an unbeatable texture and flavor profile. Each element has its distinct role, whether it’s adding moisture, sweetness, warmth, or that perfect chew.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture for that soft, chewy base.
- Light brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Provides caramel notes and keeps the blondies tender.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness and helps with texture.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and give structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Brings depth and warmth to the flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that provides body and chew.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a gentle rise without making it cakey.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps browning and texture.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice that fills the blondies with cozy warmth.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle nutty depth.
- Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a delicate spicy kick.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Peeled and diced apples (1 1/2 cups): Fresh apple chunks add juicy bursts and texture.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): For crunch and a buttery nutty flavor.
How to Make Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your blondies will come out effortlessly when baked, keeping their chewy texture intact.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter with both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This creates the luscious base that will hold your blondies together.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in the eggs followed by the vanilla extract. These add richness and a comforting aroma, elevating the overall blend to a perfect creamy consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This spice mix is essential—it infuses the blondies with all the warm, autumnal notes that make this Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe so irresistible.
Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Remember not to overmix; you want to keep the batter tender and light, ensuring your blondies remain chewy rather than tough.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the peeled, diced apples and your choice of walnuts or pecans if using. These add bursts of juiciness and crunchy delight that complement every bite.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once out of the oven, let your blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time solidifies their chewy texture. Once cool, slice carefully into squares and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
Top your blondies with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a show-stopping finish. These simple touches elevate both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair your blondies with a hot cup of chai tea or a rich latte to complement the warm spices. For gatherings, a side of whipped cream or fresh apple slices can add a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these blondies in rustic wooden boxes or wrapped in parchment tied with twine for gift-giving. You can also create mini blondie parfaits layered with apple compote and whipped cream for an elegant dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe treats will keep beautifully stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This allows the chewiness and moisture to remain intact.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze them. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer, thawing perfectly when brought back to room temperature.
Reheating
To freshen up leftover blondies, briefly warm them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven. This brings back that freshly baked softness and gooey apple goodness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the apples with another fruit?
Absolutely! While apples give a classic chewy spiced apple blondie flavor, pears or firm peaches can be great alternatives, offering a similar texture and sweetness.
What if I don’t want to use nuts?
You can simply omit the walnuts or pecans without affecting the overall texture too much. The blondies will still be chewy and delicious, with the apples providing enough moisture and interest.
How do I ensure my blondies are chewy, not cakey?
The key is not overmixing your batter and using a combination of melted butter with both brown and granulated sugar, which keeps the texture dense and chewy rather than light and fluffy.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just be sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How ripe should the apples be?
Use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the blondies perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Making the Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe is like inviting a little bit of autumn joy into your kitchen, no matter the season. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying treat that’s bound to become a favorite with comforting flavors and that perfect chewy texture. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these blondies disappear when shared with friends and family!
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Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 35m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 12-16 blondies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chewy Spiced Apple Blondies combine the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with tender chunks of fresh apples and a rich buttery base. Perfectly chewy with a golden crust, they make a delightful treat for fall or any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the blondies later.
- Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, packed light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well-blended, creating a rich base for the blondies.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well until the batter is fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt until the mixture is evenly blended.
- Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the blondies tender.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold the peeled and diced apples and optional chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter, ensuring even distribution without breaking up the fruit.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Bake the Blondies: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Walnuts or pecans add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the blondies chewy and tender.
- Using parchment paper makes cleanup easier and helps to remove the blondies without breaking.
