apple cinnamon blondies with maple cream cheese frosting

As the days grow shorter and the air fills with a crisp bite, the kitchen becomes my favorite refuge, alive with the warm, comforting scents of fall. Recently, while daydreaming of cozy evenings, I stumbled upon a recipe that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the season: Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. Imagine curling up with these lush, chewy delights; they have the sweetness of a classic brownie but with the inviting flavors of fresh apples and warm spices.

These blondies are more than just a dessert—they're a celebration of autumn in every delightful bite. Topped with smooth maple cream cheese frosting, they become an irresistible treat that makes any occasion feel special. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe promises to bring a bit of warmth and sweetness to your table. So grab your favorite apples and let’s get baking—it’s time to create something magical!

Why are apple cinnamon blondies with maple cream cheese frosting special?

Irresistible Comfort: These blondies bring the warmth of fall into every bite, combining the chewy texture you love with the sweetness of fresh apples.
Decadent Topping: The creamy maple frosting adds a luscious finish that elevates this dessert to new heights.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert that impresses.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, these blondies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making them perfect for your next fall celebration.
Versatile: Enjoy them warm, or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

Get ready to delight your senses!

Apple Cinnamon Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondies
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; melting until slightly browned deepens the flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; be sure to spoon and level for the best texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps achieve a delightful rise, contributing to that chewy blondie finish.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and amplifies the flavors throughout.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warm spices, enhancing the seasonal flavors of these apple cinnamon blondies.
• Nutmeg – Adds a subtle spice that beautifully complements the cinnamon.
• Brown Sugar – Supplies natural sweetness and moisture, creating a wonderfully dense texture.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients; adding richness to each perfect bite.
• Vanilla Extract – Delivers a sweet aroma that enhances overall flavor depth.
• Peeled and Chopped Apples – Fresh fruit adds moisture and natural sweetness; Honey Crisp apples are a delightful choice.

For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The creamy base that gives the frosting its rich texture and flavor.
• Confectioners Sugar – Sweetens the frosting for a perfect spreadable finish.
• Maple Syrup – Brings a distinct, delicious sweetness to the frosting.
• Cinnamon (for frosting) – Deepens the flavor profile, connecting the frosting to the apple cinnamon blondies.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Blondies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure even baking for a deliciously chewy texture.
Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat until it's slightly browned. This will enhance the flavor and richness of your blondies, so set it aside to cool.
Whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg in a separate bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients helps distribute the leaveners for a perfect rise.
Combine the melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy for a luscious batter.
Fold in the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined. Then, gently add 1 ½ cups of peeled and chopped Honey Crisp apples, ensuring they're evenly incorporated.
Pour the batter into a lined 9x13 inch baking pan, smoothing the top for even baking. Bake for 35-45 minutes, checking for doneness around 28-30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Cool the blondies in the pan for 1 hour. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for the best texture.
Prepare the frosting by beating 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of butter until smooth. Gradually blend in 2 cups of confectioners sugar and ¼ cup of maple syrup until the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
Frost the cooled blondies generously with the maple cream cheese frosting. Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top, then cut them into squares to serve.

Optional: Serve these blondies warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Apple Cinnamon Blondies

Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid overpacking the flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off; this prevents dry blondies.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on the cooking time, especially with metal pans; start checking for doneness at 28-30 minutes to avoid overbaking your apple cinnamon blondies with maple cream cheese frosting.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow blondies to cool completely before frosting; this helps the maple cream cheese frosting adhere better and stay smooth.
Chill the Frosting: If your frosting is too runny, refrigerate it for a bit to thicken before spreading for a perfect creamy texture.
Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for Honey Crisp apples; they add natural sweetness and a delightful burst in every bite.

Storage Tips for Apple Cinnamon Blondies

Fridge: Store your blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to 5-7 days. This helps preserve the creamy maple cream cheese frosting.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies without frosting in a single layer. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen blondies in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked taste, or enjoy them cold.

Serving Suggestion: Frost the blondies right before serving if they have been stored unfrosted; this will keep the frosting smooth and luscious for your guests.

Apple Cinnamon Blondies Variations

Feel free to customize these cozy blondies to suit your taste or dietary needs. Let's make this delightful treat even more special!

Tart Apples: Swap in Granny Smith apples for a refreshing tart bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the chewy blondies.
Maple Substitution: Opt for honey or agave syrup in the cream cheese frosting for a unique sweetness that still shines through.
Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the batter for an exciting flavor twist that brings warmth to each bite.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting: Give the frosting a seasonal spin by mixing in ¼ cup of pumpkin puree for a creamy treat that’s perfect for fall.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of white or dark chocolate chips to the batter for additional sweetness and a touch of decadence.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top of the batter for a sweet, crispy crust that takes these blondies to the next level.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. The blondies will taste just as delicious when baked fresh! For the frosting, you can make it up to 3 days ahead—store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, simply frost the cooled blondies and enjoy the delightful combination of warm flavors right at home, all without the stress of last-minute preparation!

What to Serve with Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting?

Indulge in the perfect fall spread that complements the rich flavors of these blondies and enhances your cozy dessert experience.

Hot Coffee: The robust flavors and warmth of coffee pair beautifully with the sweetness of the blondies, making every bite even more delightful.
Spiced Tea: Choose a chai or cinnamon-infused tea to echo the spices in the blondies and create a soothing beverage pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent contrast to the chewy texture, elevating each mouthful to a new level of indulgence.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy finish that balances the richness of the maple cream cheese frosting.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite not only harmonizes excellent with the flavors but also enhances the autumnal vibes of your dessert spread.
Honeycrisp Apple Slices: Keep it fresh with crisp apple slices; they echo the apples in the blondies while adding a crunchy texture and refreshing flavor.

Gather your favorite accompaniments and prepare to delight in a cozy, flavor-packed experience that celebrates the best of fall!

Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apples for the blondies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture in your Apple Cinnamon Blondies, I highly recommend using Honey Crisp apples. They're sweet, juicy, and hold up well during baking. If you prefer a tart contrast, Granny Smith apples make a great substitute!

How should I store my blondies after baking?
To keep your blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for about 5-7 days, thanks to the cream cheese frosting that adds moisture. If you’re planning to enjoy them later, I suggest refrigerating them and then bringing them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I freeze the blondies?
Certainly! To freeze your Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, first, make sure they're completely cooled. Wrap the unfrosted blondies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and frost them just before serving for a delightful fresh taste!

What if my blondies turn out too dry?
Very! If your blondies come out dry, it might have been a result of overpacking flour. Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Also, monitor your bake time closely—start checking doneness around the 28-30 minute mark. If you find yourself facing dry blondies, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm maple syrup before indulging; it’ll bring them back to life in no time!

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Apple Cinnamon Blondies gluten-free, just swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This should maintains the flavor and texture while accommodating those following a gluten-free diet. Enjoy the yummy, chewy goodness without a worry!

Is the maple cream cheese frosting safe for my pets?
It's important to note that cream cheese and maple syrup aren’t suitable for pets, particularly dogs, as they can cause digestive upset. Always keep these blondies out of reach from your furry friends. If you're looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider making them separate snacks using pet-safe ingredients.