Brown Butter Apple Blondies Recipe

The Coziest Brown Butter Apple Blondies Recipe Ever Made

Autumn’s golden embrace brings delectable brown butter apple blondies that dance with warm, nostalgic flavors.

Sweet apples nestled in a brown butter base create an irresistible harmony of textures and tastes.

Each bite promises a luxurious combination of caramelized depth and fruity brightness.

The kitchen fills with an enchanting aroma that signals comfort and indulgence.

These blondies offer a sophisticated twist on classic desserts, blending nutty brown butter with seasonal apple sweetness.

Rich, tender, and perfectly balanced, they transform simple ingredients into a memorable treat.

Brown Butter Apples, Blondies, and Autumn Joys

  • Savor Seasonal Comfort: Brown butter apple blondies capture the warm, cozy essence of autumn with fresh apples and rich, nutty brown butter that create an irresistible seasonal treat.
  • Whip Up with Ease: This recipe requires basic baking skills and minimal prep, making it perfect for home bakers of all levels who want a delicious dessert without complex techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weekend desserts, these blondies offer a delightful balance of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and buttery texture that appeals to all ages.
  • Quick and Satisfying Baking: With straightforward ingredients and a simple one-bowl mixing method, you can transform basic pantry staples into a mouthwatering dessert in under an hour.

What You’ll Need for Brown Butter Apple Blondies

Core Ingredients:
  • Butter: A key ingredient that is browned to add a rich, nutty flavor to the blondies.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a moist, caramel-like texture.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the blondies.
  • Flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the base of the blondie batter.
  • Apples: Fresh diced apples that add moisture, natural sweetness, and fruity flavor.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic flavor that complements the apples perfectly.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the blondies.
Leavening and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Baking Powder: Helps the blondies rise and creates a light, tender texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a deep, rich flavor that enhances the other ingredients.
Optional Add-Ins:
  • Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the blondies.

How to Make Brown Butter Apple Blondies Step by Step

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Turn the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing it thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Golden Butter Magic

Place butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Stir constantly while cooking until the butter transforms into a rich golden brown color and releases a delightful nutty aroma.

Remove from heat and let it cool down slightly.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the browned butter and brown sugar, whisking until smooth and fully integrated.

Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture becomes silky and well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Cinnamon
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring until a consistent batter forms.

Step 5: Add Delicious Chunks

Gently fold in:
  • Diced apples
  • Chopped walnuts (optional)

Ensure the fruits and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the blondies to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Tricks for Moist, Buttery Blondies Every Time

  • Brown the butter slowly to develop a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the entire dessert's taste profile.
  • Dice apples into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution and consistent texture throughout the blondies.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the blondies tender and prevent a tough, dense result.
  • Allow blondies to cool completely before cutting to help them set and maintain a clean, neat slice.
  • Walnuts add crunch, but can be omitted for nut allergies or personal preference without compromising the recipe's overall flavor.

Blondie Variations to Try This Season

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Alternative: Swap eggs with mashed banana or applesauce and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based option.
  • Nut-Free Option: Eliminate walnuts and substitute with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for added crunch without nuts.
  • Low-Sugar Adaptation: Use sugar substitute like stevia or reduce brown sugar amount and add grated carrots for natural sweetness while maintaining moisture.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Blondies

  • Apple Cinnamon Brunch Delight: Serve these blondies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat that brings comfort and sweetness to your breakfast table.
  • Dessert Bar Centerpiece: Create an elegant dessert display by cutting blondies into smaller squares, arranging them on a beautiful platter with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a few fresh apple slices for garnish.
  • Scoop of Happiness: Top each blondy with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the dessert and add a creamy, luxurious touch that complements the warm, nutty brown butter flavor.
  • Autumn Gathering Companion: Pair these blondies with a warm apple cider or mulled wine during fall gatherings, making them a perfect seasonal dessert that captures the cozy essence of autumn.

Storing Leftover Apple Blondies

  • Store blondies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Remove blondies from freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual pieces for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
  • Warm blondies in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their soft, fresh-baked texture and enhance the brown butter aroma.

FAQs

  • What is brown butter and how does it enhance the blondies?

Brown butter is butter that’s cooked until it turns golden and develops a rich, nutty flavor. This technique adds depth and complexity to the blondies, creating a more sophisticated taste profile compared to regular melted butter.

  • Can I skip the walnuts in the recipe?

Yes, you can easily omit the walnuts if you have allergies or don’t enjoy them. The blondies will still be delicious, and the apples and brown butter will provide plenty of flavor.

  • How do I know when the brown butter is ready?

The butter is ready when it turns a golden amber color and smells nutty, with small brown bits at the bottom of the pan. This typically takes about 3-5 minutes of careful stirring over medium heat.

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Brown Butter Apple Blondies Recipe

Brown Butter Apple Blondies Recipe


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4.6 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Brown butter apple blondies blend autumn’s warmth with rich, nutty caramel notes. Sweet apples and golden blondies create a delightful dessert that invites you to savor each comforting, homemade bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups light brown sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large apple

Fruits and Spices:

  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Leavening and Binding Agents:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

Glaze Ingredients:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 23 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create brown butter by heating butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until it transforms to a rich golden hue with a fragrant, nutty aroma. Allow to cool momentarily.
  3. Combine the browned butter with brown sugar in a mixing bowl, whisking until thoroughly blended and smooth.
  4. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully integrated.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
  6. Gradually blend the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a uniform batter forms.
  7. Gently fold diced apples and chopped walnuts into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
  8. Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean with minimal crumbs.
  10. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • Brown the butter carefully, watching closely to achieve a golden color without burning, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to the blondies.
  • Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and balanced sweetness in the dessert.
  • Toast the walnuts briefly before adding to enhance their natural flavor and provide a delightful crunch to the blondies.
  • Try gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version, ensuring the same delectable texture and taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 243
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 95 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1.2 g
  • Protein: 2.4 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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