Welcome to your new favorite dessert: Brown Butter Apple Cinnamon Blondies! These blondies are a warm, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. The rich, nutty taste of brown butter pairs beautifully with sweet apples and a hint of cinnamon. I’ll guide you through each step, from gathering simple ingredients to achieving that perfect bake. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), browned
– 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 cup peeled and diced apples (about 1 large apple)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
The ingredients in these blondies create a rich and tasty treat. First, I use unsalted butter to make that yummy brown butter. The browning gives the blondies a nutty taste. I mix in packed brown sugar, which adds deep sweetness and moisture.
Next, I add eggs. They help bind everything together. The vanilla extract gives a warm and comforting flavor.
Then, I combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mix gives the blondies structure and a hint of spice.
Fresh apples bring juicy bites. I recommend using a large apple for the best flavor. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. If you love chocolate, white chocolate chips make them even better.
These ingredients come together to create a soft, chewy, and delightful treat. Each bite is full of flavor and warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
– Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish. Grease it or line it with parchment paper.
Brown the Butter
– In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
– Stir or swirl the pan. Wait for the butter to foam, then settle.
– Cook until the butter turns a deep golden brown. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
– Once browned, remove it from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine the cooled browned butter and packed brown sugar.
– Blend them until smooth and glossy.
– Add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg.
– Finally, stir in the vanilla extract until fully mixed.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
– This helps mix the leavening agents and spices evenly.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
– Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
– Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix gently until just combined.
– A few small lumps are okay. Don’t over-mix.
Fold in Apples and Nuts
– Carefully fold in the diced apples.
– If you want, add chopped walnuts or pecans. Ensure they are evenly spread.
Add White Chocolate Chips
– If you like, gently fold in white chocolate chips. This adds extra flavor.
Bake
– Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.
– Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
– Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Cut
– Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
– Use the parchment paper to lift them out.
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
– Once cool, cut into squares.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Blondies
Achieving the Right Texture
To get the best texture for your blondies, start by browning the butter. This step adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps with moisture. Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing will make them tough. You want a soft and chewy bite.
Avoiding Overmixing
Mix until just combined. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies. Use a spatula for folding in ingredients. This helps keep the batter light and airy.
Variation Suggestions
Substituting Different Nuts
You can swap in different nuts for unique flavors. Try pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each nut brings its own taste and texture. This lets you customize the blondies to your liking.
Using Alternative Sweeteners
If you want a lighter option, use coconut sugar or maple syrup. These sweeteners can change the flavor slightly. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Flavor Enhancements
Drizzling with Caramel Sauce
A drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the blondies. This adds a sweet and sticky layer. Warm the caramel slightly before pouring for an easy drizzle.
Serving Suggestions with Ice Cream
Serve the blondies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream pairs nicely with the warm, soft blondies. Top with extra cinnamon sugar for a delicious finish.
Storage Information
Cooling and Storing
How do you properly cool the blondies? After baking, let the blondies sit in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set up just right. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper. Place them on a wire rack to cool fully. This cooling step is key. It keeps the texture soft and prevents sogginess.
Best Storage Practices
What are the best storage practices? Use airtight containers for storing your blondies. This keeps them fresh and moist. If you want to store them longer, refrigerate or freeze. For refrigeration, keep them in a container for up to a week. For freezing, wrap each blondie in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for about three months in the freezer.
Shelf Life
What is the duration for freshness? When stored correctly, blondies stay fresh for about one week. After that, they can dry out. What are the signs of spoilage? Check for any mold or an off smell. If they feel hard or dry, it’s time to toss them. Enjoy your blondies while they are at their best!
FAQs
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can use white sugar as a substitute. Use a 1:1 ratio, but add a bit of molasses. If you have coconut sugar, it works well too. This option adds a hint of caramel flavor.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends. Use a 1:1 gluten-free mix for best results. Look for blends that include xanthan gum for better texture.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done. The edges should look golden brown. They will firm up as they cool.
What other fruits can I add to the blondies?
You can add diced pears for a soft texture. Chopped peaches or berries also mix well. These fruits add flavor and moisture. Just make sure to keep the total fruit amount similar.
Can these blondies be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for a day. You can also bake them a day before serving. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
– Estimated Calories Per Serving: 200-250 calories. Each blondie is rich and filling.
Nutritional Highlights
– Key Nutrients and Benefits:
– Butter: Provides healthy fats for energy.
– Brown Sugar: Offers a touch of iron and minerals.
– Eggs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients.
– Apples: Bring fiber and vitamins, boosting health.
– Walnuts/Pecans: Add omega-3s and antioxidants.
– White Chocolate Chips: Can enhance mood with sweetness.
Dietary Considerations
– Allergens and Dietary Restrictions:
– Dairy: Contains butter and eggs; avoid if lactose intolerant.
– Nuts: Optional walnuts or pecans may trigger allergies.
– Gluten: Contains all-purpose flour; not safe for gluten-free diets. Consider gluten-free flour for alternatives.
In this post, I shared a delicious blondie recipe with you. You learned about all the key ingredients, from browned butter to white chocolate chips. I also provided step-by-step instructions to ensure your success. Tips to perfect your blondies and how to store them safely were included. Remember, these treats can be customized with different nuts or fruits. Enjoy your baking, and share these blondies with friends and family!
