Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting are an irresistible treat that combines rich, chewy blondies with sweet caramelized apples, all topped off with a tangy maple cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings, or as a delightful dessert for any occasion, these blondies will surely impress your family and friends. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes them a standout dessert that you won’t want to miss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these blondies come together quickly, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon and caramelized apples creates a warm, comforting flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for a party, family dinner, or just because, these blondies are suitable for any occasion.
• Frosted to Perfection: The maple cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the rich blondies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the essential equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Baking pan (8×8 or 9×9 inch)
• Spatula
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: Makes whipping up the cream cheese frosting quick and easy for a light texture.

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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 Caramelizing Apples:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

For the 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 set aside.
• In another pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add peeled and chopped apples along with 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Sauté the apples for about 10 minutes until they are tender. Allow them to cool completely.

Step 2: Make Blondie Batter

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

Step 3: Bake Blondies

• Pour the batter into a prepared 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly.
• Bake at 350°F for about 35–45 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting.

Step 4: Make Frosting

• In a mixing bowl, beat together room temperature cream cheese and butter until smooth.
• Gradually add powdered sugar along with cinnamon and maple syrup. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

• Once the blondies are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
• Cut 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

Cinnamon blondies topped with caramelized apples and cream cheese frosting are deliciously versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the warm cinnamon blondies perfectly.
• Caramel swirl ice cream: This adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs well with the apples.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Homemade caramel sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel elevates the dessert, adding rich flavor.
• Store-bought caramel sauce: For a quicker option, store-bought works just as well for a sweet finish.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Sliced strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich blondies.
• Raspberries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the frosting beautifully.

Warmed in the Microwave

• Slightly warm: A quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave enhances flavors, making them even more comforting.
• Pair with whipped cream: Top with whipped cream for added indulgence.

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

Achieving the perfect cinnamon blondies takes a few careful steps. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring eggs and butter are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your blondies chewy rather than cakey.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing blondies to cool ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and loses its texture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon or add nutmeg for a personalized flavor profile.

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

Pairing side dishes with your cinnamon blondies can enhance their taste experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of cinnamon perfectly.
2. Coffee: A cup of coffee provides a slight bitterness that enhances sweetness in desserts.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness and balances richness from the blondies.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
5. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can bring out unique flavors in your dessert.
6. Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds a delightful touch without overpowering the blondies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making delicious Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the butter can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to brown it for a nutty aroma and rich taste.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make blondies tough. Stir just until combined, and fold in the apples gently for the best texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect how well your blondies rise. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
• Not Cooling Completely: Frosting warm blondies can cause it to melt away. Allow your blondies to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different, which can affect baking times. Keep an eye on your blondies starting at 35 minutes to prevent overbaking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store blondies in an airtight container.
• They last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container; they will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap blondies in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares for about 15-20 seconds for quick serving.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes! You can try using pears or peaches for a different flavor profile while still enjoying the rich texture of these blondies.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or use coconut sugar as an alternative.

How do I make my blondies more flavorful?

Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of your blondies, giving them an extra crunch!

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Blondies with Caramelized Apples and Cream Cheese Frosting offer a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and textures. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding nuts or swapping out fruits based on your preference. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!