Print

Apple Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

Apple Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Print Recipe

These Apple Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect cozy fall dessert. Featuring chewy, spiced blondies with tender apple chunks and topped with a luscious maple cream cheese frosting, this treat balances warm spices and sweet maple flavors with a moist, soft texture. Ideal for family gatherings, fall parties, or a comforting sweet snack, these blondies are both simple to make and beautifully impressive.

Ingredients

Scale

Blondies

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for vegan)
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (about 2 medium apples)

Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (or vegan cream cheese alternative)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (Grade A)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apple mixture: Peel, core, and finely chop the fresh apples into small cubes. Toss them in a bowl with a pinch of cinnamon to infuse flavor while you prepare the batter.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, ensuring a tender crumb.
  4. Add eggs and vanilla: Slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla extract to enhance overall flavor.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding carefully to avoid overmixing which can make the blondies tough.
  6. Fold in the apples: Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apple pieces into the batter, distributing them evenly without breaking them down.
  7. Bake the blondies: Pour the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly springy.
  8. Prepare the maple cream cheese frosting: While the blondies bake, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and drizzle in pure maple syrup until the frosting is luscious and spreadable.
  9. Frost and chill: Once the blondies have cooled completely, spread the maple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top in a thick layer. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the frosting before slicing.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavors.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the blondies tender and chewy.
  • Keep cream cheese and butter chilled before making the frosting to prevent it from being runny.
  • Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; moist crumbs mean they are done but avoid wet batter.
  • Slice the blondies after the frosting is chilled to achieve clean, neat squares.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple blondies, maple cream cheese frosting, fall dessert, spiced blondies, chewy blondies, autumn recipe, gluten-free dessert, easy blondies

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/apple-blondies-with-maple-cream-cheese-frosting/