Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion. These rich and chewy blondies, combined with tender caramelized apples and a tangy cream cheese frosting, create a delightful dessert that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe is versatile and delicious. With its warm flavors and inviting aroma, you’ll find it hard to resist these delightful squares.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and caramelized apples creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a family gathering, these blondies make an excellent dessert choice.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or substitute different fruits based on your preference!
• Deliciously Frosted: The maple cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the blondies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan: This size is ideal for achieving the perfect thickness in your blondies.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to separate wet and dry ingredients easily.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that ingredients are thoroughly combined for a smooth batter.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients without overmixing, which helps maintain the blondie’s texture.

Ingredients

Rich and chewy blondies with tender apples, topped with a tangy maple cream cheese frosting.

For the Blondies

• 1 cup browned butter
• 1 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 2 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples

For the Caramelized Apples

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 6 oz room temp cream cheese
• 1/2 stick room temp butter
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 3 tbsp maple syrup

How to Make Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Butter and Apples

• Brown the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• In another pan, sauté the peeled and chopped apples with butter and cinnamon for about 10 minutes until they become tender. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make Blondie Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the browned butter and brown sugar until smooth.
• Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in the cooled caramelized apples.

Step 3: Bake Blondies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan (8×8 or 9×9 inches) and spread it evenly.
• Bake for 35-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Make Frosting

• In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese and room temperature butter until creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

• Once your blondies are completely cool, spread an even layer of frosting over the top using a spatula.
• Slice into squares and serve! Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or celebrating a special event, these blondies are sure to impress your guests.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the blondies, balancing flavors perfectly.

Add Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Drizzle with Extra Maple Syrup

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling additional maple syrup over the blondies just before serving.

Garnish with Nuts

• Top with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness.

Serve on a Festive Platter

• Arrange your blondie squares on a colorful platter to create an inviting presentation.

Accompany with Fresh Fruit

• Pair with slices of fresh fruit like pears or berries for a refreshing side that cuts through the richness.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies instead of chewy ones.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the blondies to cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.

• Adjust Sweetness if Needed: Taste the batter before baking; if you prefer sweeter blondies, consider adding a bit more brown sugar.

• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting can be paired wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that complement their rich flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and vibrancy, balancing the sweetness of the blondies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit for a creamy, crunchy side that pairs well.

3. Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea enhance the cinnamon flavor in your blondies while providing comforting warmth.

4. Cheese Board: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers and fruits for a rich contrast.

5. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will enjoy.

6. Caramel Sauce: Provide caramel sauce as an optional drizzle for those who want extra sweetness on their dessert.

7. Nutty Granola Bars: Serve homemade or store-bought granola bars as a crunchy side option that complements the soft texture of blondies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but certain pitfalls may hinder your success. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Bold Ingredients: Skipping the right measurements can ruin the texture. Always measure your ingredients accurately for perfect results.

• Bold Butter Temperature: Using cold butter instead of browned butter will affect the flavor. Make sure your butter is properly browned before use.

• Bold Mixing Too Much: Overmixing the batter leads to tough blondies. Mix just until combined for a chewy texture.

• Bold Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s set correctly at 350°F.

• Bold Frosting Too Soon: Spreading frosting on warm blondies can cause it to melt. Allow your blondies to cool completely before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place blondies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting:

Can I substitute other fruits in the recipe?

Yes, feel free to use pears or peaches instead of apples for a different flavor profile.

What type of apples work best?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great choices as they hold up well during cooking and provide a nice tartness.

How do I store leftover blondies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Is there a dairy-free option?

To make it dairy-free, use plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese in the frosting.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting offer a rich, chewy dessert that is perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors by experimenting with different fruits or toppings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!