The leaves are falling, and there’s a delightful chill in the air that invites cozy baking days—a perfect backdrop for my Maple Glazed Apple Blondies. As I whisk together warm brown sugar and butter, the rich butterscotch aroma fills my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to childhood memories of apple picking and fall fairs. These blondies are not just any dessert; they embody the essence of autumn with their dense, chewy texture and the surprising burst of tart apple chunks.

Imagine biting into a warm blondie, the sweetness of the maple glaze melting into the soft, caramel-like base, accented by a hint of cinnamon. Whether you’re looking for a comforting treat on a quiet evening or a dish that will impress friends at your next gathering, these blondies are your answer. So, let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that celebrates the delicious flavors of the season!

Why will you adore Maple Glazed Apple Blondies?

Cozy, Nostalgic Flavors: These blondies embody fall with warm spices and sweet apples, reminiscent of autumn traditions.
Quick to Make: A simple mix-and-bake recipe ensures you can whip them up effortlessly, even on busy days.
Irresistible Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewy base that pairs perfectly with the glossy maple glaze—pure bliss!
Versatile Delight: Add nuts or swap apples for pears to create your signature twist.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, they are sure to impress family and friends alike!

For more seasonal inspiration, don't miss out on my fall dessert collection.

Maple Glazed Apple Blondie Ingredients

For the Blondies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a delightful alternative.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; be sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; using kosher salt helps maintain a clean taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm essence; feel free to swap with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Ground Nutmeg – Infuses a nutty flavor; you can omit it if it's not on hand.
Unsalted Butter – Imparts moisture and richness; use salted butter if preferred, but adjust added salt accordingly.
Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and chewiness; dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
Large Eggs – Serves as a binding agent; using room temperature eggs promotes better emulsion.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Apples – Provide moisture and tartness; Granny Smith apples work great when peeled and diced.

For the Maple Glaze

Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and flavor; pure maple syrup is highly recommended for optimal taste.
Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet and smooth texture for the glaze; can substitute with confectioner’s sugar for consistency.

Embrace the warmth of autumn with these Maple Glazed Apple Blondies—it's a recipe that will fill your home with inviting aromas and hearts with bliss!

How to Make Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will help the blondies come out smoothly for easy cutting.
Cream the melted butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth and combined, creating a rich butterscotch-like base. This should take about 2-3 minutes of whisking.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow up by adding the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a separate bowl. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for perfect texture.
Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, stirring just until combined. Fold in diced apples gently, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking. Don’t forget to smooth the top for an attractive finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for a chewy texture.
Prepare the glaze by heating butter and maple syrup in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to boil. Simmer for 2 minutes before stirring in powdered sugar until smooth; let it cool briefly before drizzling over the blondies.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

Room Temperature: Keep blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate blondies for up to a week in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh while enhancing the maple glaze flavor.

Freezer: Wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for satisfying cravings later!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat that highlights the delicious flavors of the Maple Glazed Apple Blondies.

What to Serve with Maple Glazed Apple Blondies?

Indulge in a delightful fall feast with flavors that dance on the palate, turning simple gatherings into cherished memories.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that brings a creamy contrast to the warm, chewy blondies while highlighting the caramel flavors. Perfect for those who crave that comforting a la mode experience.
Coffee or Chai Tea: The rich notes of coffee or the spicy warmth of chai beautifully complement the sweet and spiced elements of the blondies, creating a cozy vibe perfect for cooler days.
Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of this decadent sauce mirrors the sweetness of the blondies while adding a delightful salty kick that enhances every bite. The contrast is simply irresistible!
Whipped Cream: Lightened creaminess balances out the richness of the blondies and adds airiness to each mouthful. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra autumnal touch.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a dessert spread that tells a story, pair these blondies with pecan pie bars, creating a glorious fusion of fall flavors that will delight any sweet tooth.
Cranberry Orange Salad: A refreshing salad with tart cranberries and sweet citrus cuts through the richness of the blondies, adding brightness to your dessert table. The textural contrast is a bonus!
Hot Apple Cider: Enjoy a steaming mug of apple cider beside your blondies, filling your home with sweetness. The spices in the cider resonate with the cinnamon in the blondies for true fall bliss.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Complete your cozy experience with a pumpkin spice latte, making for an aromatic and indulgent pairing that celebrates the essence of fall in each sip.

Combining these delicious options will elevate your dessert experience, making every bite of Maple Glazed Apple Blondies even more memorable!

Expert Tips for Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the blondies; they should be slightly underbaked as they'll firm up while cooling—this ensures a chewy texture.
Glaze Consistency Check: The maple glaze should be pourable. If it's too thick, add a splash of maple syrup; if it's too thin, whisk in more powdered sugar.
Even Apple Distribution: Make sure to dice the apples uniformly. This helps them cook evenly in the blondies and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for better emulsification with the butter and sugar, leading to a smoother batter and improved texture.
Spice Up Your Blondies: Don't hesitate to experiment with spices! Adding ginger or cardamom can enhance the flavor profile of your Maple Glazed Apple Blondies.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Glazed Apple Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking for a delicious treat that can be prepared in advance! You can prepare the blondie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours—just cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can bake the blondies ahead of time and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy, simply drizzle with the maple glaze and allow for a few minutes to set—these blondies will be just as delicious as when freshly made, giving you that homemade taste without the stress on busy days!

Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these blondies to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and rich flavor. The texture contrast will elevate each bite!
Spice It Up: Replace cinnamon with ginger or cardamom for a warm, spicy twist that ignites your taste buds and adds unique flair.
Fruit Swap: Try diced pears instead of apples for a different fruity flavor that still captures the essence of fall.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the batter before baking to create luscious pockets of sweetness that melt in your mouth.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent surprise that complements the butterscotch flavor beautifully.
Coconut Bliss: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical touch that pairs surprisingly well with the apples and maple glaze.
Maple-Infused Frosting: Instead of a glaze, top these blondies with a creamy maple frosting for a richer dessert experience—pure indulgence!

Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for the blondies?
I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith, which provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and maple glaze. Peel and dice them for even distribution throughout the batter.

How should I store my blondies after baking?
You can keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure they're in a sealed container to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Maple Glazed Apple Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

What can I do if my blondies are too dry?
Dry blondies usually indicate overbaking. To achieve the right texture, aim for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with a few moist crumbs. If your blondies do turn out dry, you can serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream to enhance the moisture and flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts. Just ensure that all your other ingredients, particularly the baking powder, are also gluten-free to maintain the recipe's integrity.

Can my pets eat Maple Glazed Apple Blondies?
It’s best to keep these blondies away from pets. The sugar and butter are not ideal for their diets, and the ingredients, like maple syrup and cinnamon, can cause stomach upset in some animals. Enjoy these treats yourself!