There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen, especially when it involves the rich, nutty aroma of browned butter. I discovered this delightful recipe for Brown Butter Apple Blondies on a cozy autumn afternoon, and it quickly became a cherished staple in my home. The pairing of tart Granny Smith apples with the warm, caramel notes of brown butter creates an irresistible treat that’s both fudgy and soft.
Whether you're looking for a sweet ending to a family dinner or a sweet snack to enjoy with your morning coffee, these blondies are the answer. Ready in just 45 minutes and drizzled with a luscious brown butter glaze, they effortlessly blend ease with incredible flavor. Trust me, once you take a bite, it’ll be hard to resist going back for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this mouthwatering dessert that will surely become a favorite!
Why are Brown Butter Apple Blondies a must-try?
Comforting Aroma: The sweet scent of brown butter mingling with apples fills your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere that invites everyone to indulge.
Fudgy Delight: These blondies offer a rich, fudgy texture that strikes the perfect balance between chewy and soft—just like a brownie but with a lighter twist.
Easy Preparation: With only 45 minutes needed, whipping up these heavenly treats is a breeze, making them ideal for any home baker.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee, these blondies cater to both casual snacking and special occasions.
Tartness Balanced: The Granny Smith apples add a refreshing tartness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the brown sugar glaze, elevating each bite.
Customize Your Way: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips; the possibilities are endless, ensuring everyone finds their favorite version!
Pair these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat, or check out our Serving Suggestions to make them even more delightful!
Brown Butter Apple Blondies Ingredients
Prepare to create the perfect blend of flavors with these Brown Butter Apple Blondies!
For the Batter
- ¾ cup butter – Provides richness and flavor; use unsalted for better control of saltiness.
- 1 ¼ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds sweetness and a rich caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar can be used.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla – Enhances flavor depth; pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
- 1 egg + 1 yolk – Adds moisture and richness; for a vegan option, consider a flax egg substitute.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness; adjust to taste if needed.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; can substitute with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg – Complements the apple flavor; can be omitted for a milder taste.
- 1 ½ cups flour (measured correctly) – Provides structure; can use a gluten-free blend as a substitute.
- 1 ¼ cups peeled and chopped apple (about 1 large apple) – Main flavor component; best to use tart varieties like Granny Smith for that signature taste.
For the Sautéed Apples
- 1 tablespoon butter (for apples) – To sauté the apples lightly; can use coconut oil as a delicious substitute.
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar (for apples) – Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples during cooking.
- ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon (for apples) – To flavor the sautéed apples perfectly.
For the Glaze
- 3 tablespoons butter (for glaze) – Provides the base for the glaze; can substitute with vegan butter for a plant-based alternative.
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze; ensure it is finely sifted for a smooth consistency.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla (for glaze) – Enhances flavor; use the same as in the batter for continuity.
- 1 ½ tablespoons milk – To adjust the glaze consistency; dairy-free milk works well for a vegan option.
Dive into making these delightful Brown Butter Apple Blondies, filled with flavor and the charm of home baking!
How to Make Brown Butter Apple Blondies
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper.
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Brown the Butter: In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, which should take about 8 minutes.
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Prepare Apples: Add the chopped Granny Smith apples into the same pot containing the brown butter. Sprinkle in the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sauté for 3-5 minutes until the apples soften and are fragrant.
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Make Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter with the brown sugar and vanilla. Mix in the egg, egg yolk, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually fold in the flour until just combined, then gently incorporate the sautéed apples.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 24-29 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs. Allow to cool.
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Prepare Glaze: While the blondies cool, melt the reserved brown butter in a small bowl. Mix in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until you reach your desired glaze consistency, then drizzle generously over the cooled blondies before cutting them into squares.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Brown Butter Apple Blondies
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Browning Butter: Keep a close watch while melting the butter; it can turn from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds, altering the flavor.
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Apple Selection: Stick to tart varieties, especially Granny Smith; using softer apples can result in mushy blondies rather than retaining that delightful chunky texture.
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Mixing Technique: Be gentle when folding in the sautéed apples into the batter; overmixing can lead to denser blondies.
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Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness around the 24-minute mark. The edges should be set, while the center may remain slightly soft.
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Storing Properly: To maintain freshness, store Brown Butter Apple Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; refrigerate for longer shelf-life.
How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Apple Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep blondies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their tenderness and flavor.
Fridge: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; ensure they're in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Wrap individual blondie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their fudgy texture, or enjoy them straight from the fridge!
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Apple Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients up to the baking step and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sautéed apples can also be prepped ahead; just sauté them and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, pour the batter into your pan, fold in the cold apples, and proceed with baking as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious blondies that are just as fresh and fudgy, making this an ideal treat for gatherings or busy weeknights!
Brown Butter Apple Blondies Variations
Make these delicious blondies your own by exploring different flavors and textures!
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the sweet apples.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking; the melty goodness adds a layer of rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple.
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Vegan Twist: Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter to make these blondies vegan-friendly.
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Spiced Delight: Amp up the spices by adding ¼ teaspoon of ginger or allspice to the batter, giving your blondies a warm and cozy profile perfect for fall.
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Fruit Fusion: Try using a mix of apples and pears for a unique flavor combination; the pears will bring a softer texture while still providing that juicy, fruity goodness.
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Caramel Drizzle: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the baked blondies before serving; this will intensify the dessert's indulgence.
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Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens up the decadent flavors.
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Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
Feel free to mix and match these variations, creating something special just for you and your loved ones! Happy baking!
What to Serve with Brown Butter Apple Blondies?
Indulging in the warm, caramel-rich flavors of these blondies creates a wonderful opportunity to craft a delightful meal around them.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly over the warm blondies, enhancing their fudgy texture.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream offers a sweet contrast to the rich, dense blondies while adding a lovely presentation touch.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent dessert that amplifies the warm flavors of brown butter and apples. It’s a flavor explosion!
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Cinnamon Tea: Sip on a cup of spiced cinnamon tea alongside your blondies. The warm spices echo the flavors in the dessert, providing a cozy balance.
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Salted Nuts: For a crunchy texture contrast, sprinkle some salted walnuts or pecans over the blondies. Their saltiness beautifully balances the sweetness.
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Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider enhances the fruity notes in the blondies and adds a refreshing element to the experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: The creamy warmth of this popular beverage perfectly complements the flavors of the blondies, making it a seasonal favorite.
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Chocolate Chips: For extra indulgence, sprinkle some chocolate chips over your blondies before baking. It creates a delightful surprise in every bite and over-the-top flavor.
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Fruit Salad: Serve a light and refreshing fruit salad on the side to brighten the dish. The tartness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the blondies nicely.
Brown Butter Apple Blondies Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Brown Butter Apple Blondies, I recommend using tart varieties like Granny Smith apples. Their refreshing acidity is a perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of the brown sugar. Softer apples, such as Red Delicious, might get mushy and lose their texture, so stick to firmer options for great results.
How should I store my blondies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Brown Butter Apple Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want the blondies to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze Brown Butter Apple Blondies? If so, how?
Yes, absolutely! To freeze your blondies, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. To enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or for a speedy option, microwave for about 10-15 seconds. It’s like having a fresh batch anytime you crave it!
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dense?
If your blondies are too dense, it might be due to overmixing while incorporating the flour or sautéd apples. Remember to be gentle during this step! Also, ensure you properly measure your flour; too much flour could also lead to a heavy texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for more accuracy when measuring.
Are these blondies suitable for people with allergies or dietary restrictions?
Always being mindful of allergies is important! For those with gluten allergies, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in this recipe. Additionally, if you’re looking for a vegan option, replace the butter with vegan butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs: combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!
How long do the blondies take to bake?
The baking time for your Brown Butter Apple Blondies is about 24-29 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Start checking around the 24-minute mark. You want the edges to be set, while the center remains slightly soft—this will help maintain that delicious fudgy texture you’re aiming for!
Irresistibly Easy Brown Butter Apple Blondies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan.
- In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring continuously until golden brown.
- Add chopped Granny Smith apples to the pot, sprinkle in brown sugar and cinnamon, and sauté for 3-5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine browned butter, brown sugar, and vanilla, then mix in egg, yolk, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually fold in flour and sautéed apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 24-29 minutes or until edges are set.
- While cooling, melt reserved brown butter in a bowl, mix in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, then drizzle over cooled blondies.
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