Perfect Maple Glazed Apple Blondies Recipe for Fall

Picture this: the aroma of warm cinnamon and spiced apples filling your kitchen as a tray of golden blondies bakes in the oven. The maple glaze drips over the edges, pooling just enough to tempt you to sneak a taste before they’ve even cooled. These blondies are not just a dessert; they’re the embodiment of fall in every bite. The first time I made these, I was instantly transported to crisp autumn mornings, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and cozy sweaters. It was the kind of moment that made me pause, take a deep breath, and realize I’d stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come.

Honestly, my family couldn’t keep their hands off these blondies, which made keeping them on the counter for longer than five minutes a bit of a challenge. My kids even started calling them “apple pie squares,” which is fitting because they taste just like apple pie wrapped in a fudgy, buttery square. They’re perfect for potlucks, gifting, or just indulging yourself with a warm cup of tea on a chilly evening. If you’ve been looking for a nostalgic fall dessert that’s dangerously easy to make, you’re going to want to bookmark this recipe. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These blondies come together in under an hour, making them perfect for last-minute autumn gatherings or impromptu cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of what you need is likely already sitting in your pantry or fridge. No fancy trips to specialty stores required!
• Perfect for Fall: Loaded with warm spices, fresh apples, and topped with a luscious maple glaze, this recipe is practically calling for sweater weather.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about these blondies—trust me, they won’t last long.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The texture is fudgy yet soft, with bursts of apple and the perfect amount of sweetness from the maple glaze.

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of textures and flavors. The apples bring a juicy burst of freshness, while the blondie base is rich and buttery without being overly sweet. And that maple glaze? It ties everything together like a warm hug, adding just the right touch of autumn magic. You know, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes after the first bite, savoring the pure comfort it brings.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold fall flavors and a satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Blondies:
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup (150g) diced fresh apples (I recommend Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for their tartness)
• For the Maple Glaze:
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon milk (use dairy-free milk if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to swap the apples for pears or use almond flour for a gluten-free option. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these blondies:

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Whisk and spatula
• 9×13-inch baking pan (or an 8×8-inch pan for thicker blondies)
• Parchment paper for easy removal
• Knife and cutting board for dicing apples
• Cooling rack

No fancy tools are required, but using parchment paper will make your life easier when it’s time to pull the blondies out of the pan. And if you don’t have a whisk, a sturdy fork will do the trick!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Prepare the blondie batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
4. Add the apples: Fold the diced apples into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
7. Make the maple glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time.
8. Decorate: Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled blondies. Slice into squares and serve.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overmix the batter! Overmixing can make the blondies dense instead of soft and fudgy.
• Use fresh, firm apples for the best texture. Soft apples can release too much moisture into the batter.
• For even baking, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time.
• If your glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper—it’s a lifesaver for easy, mess-free removal.

Trust me, I’ve made these blondies more times than I can count, and these tips always ensure they come out perfectly every time!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
• Seasonal Swap: Use diced pears instead of apples for a delicate flavor variation.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk in the glaze and substitute butter with plant-based alternatives.

Personally, I’ve tried adding a dash of cardamom to the batter for an extra layer of warmth—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These blondies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a hot cup of cider, tea, or coffee for the ultimate fall comfort food experience. For a fancier presentation, sprinkle some extra powdered sugar or cinnamon on top before serving.

Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh for longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For freezing, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag—just thaw them at room temperature and they’ll be as good as new!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each blondie contains approximately:

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 2g

The apples provide a natural sweetness and are a great source of fiber and vitamin C. Maple syrup adds a touch of antioxidants, and using a dairy-free alternative for the glaze makes this recipe adaptable for various dietary needs. While not exactly a health food, these blondies are a feel-good treat that can be enjoyed in moderation!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that screams fall, these maple-glazed apple blondies are it. They’re easy to whip up, packed with seasonal flavors, and perfect for sharing (or not—no judgment here). Whether you tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or stick to the original, I’m confident these blondies will become a staple in your kitchen. Why not give them a try? Leave a comment below and let me know how yours turn out!

Nothing beats the joy of baking something that brings comfort and happiness to everyone who tries it. So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s make some magic happen. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use canned apples instead of fresh ones?

Fresh apples are best for texture and flavor, but you can use canned apples if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well before adding them to the batter.

What’s the best type of apple to use?

Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples work wonderfully in this recipe, as their tartness balances the sweetness of the blondies and maple glaze.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the center to make sure it’s fully cooked.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

If your glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make these blondies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These blondies taste even better the next day. Prepare them a day ahead, store them in an airtight container, and add the glaze just before serving.

Print