Are you ready to bake something amazing? Brown Butter Apple Blondies are rich, tasty, and oh-so-comforting. This simple recipe combines sweet apples and nutty brown butter for a treat you won’t forget. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging solo, these blondies are sure to impress. Let’s gather your ingredients and dive into the delicious world of Brown Butter Apple Blondies!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Brown Butter Apple Blondies, gather these ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 medium sweet apple, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can swap out some ingredients if needed:
– For butter, use ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
– Instead of brown sugar, try coconut sugar or honey for a different sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins
Want to mix things up? Here are some fun add-ins:
– Use different nuts, like pecans or almonds, for crunch.
– Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
– Try dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by prepping your apple and nuts. Choose a sweet apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Peel, core, and dice it into small pieces. If you like nuts, chop your walnuts now. This adds a nice crunch.
Next, melt your butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Watch it closely. Stir often until the butter turns a golden brown color and smells nutty. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it; burnt butter can ruin the flavor.
Mixing the Batter
In a mixing bowl, pour the brown butter. Whisk in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Stir in the vanilla extract for a nice flavor boost.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix, or your blondies may turn out dense.
Fold in your diced apple and chopped walnuts if you’re using them. Make sure they are evenly spread throughout the batter.
Baking Process
Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps you lift out the blondies later. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You will know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, with a few moist crumbs.
Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment to lift them out. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfect Brown Butter
To make brown butter, heat unsalted butter in a medium pan. Stir it often and watch closely. The butter should turn a deep golden brown. It will smell nutty and fragrant. This takes about 5-7 minutes. If it burns, start over. Look for small brown bits at the bottom. This shows the butter is ready.
Baking Tips
To check if the blondies are done, use a toothpick. Stick it into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Let them cool in the pan for ten minutes. This helps them set better. Cutting them too soon can make them fall apart.
Presentation Tips
For a fun touch, dust cooled blondies with powdered sugar. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream or drizzle caramel sauce on top. This adds extra flavor and makes them look pretty! Serve them warm for a cozy treat, or at room temperature for a nice snack.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make your Brown Butter Apple Blondies even more tasty! Adding spices like nutmeg or maple extract can boost the flavor. These small changes will make a big difference. Try different apples too. A tart Granny Smith can give a nice contrast to the sweet batter. Honeycrisp apples add a juicy sweetness that blends well with brown butter.
Dietary Variations
If you need gluten-free blondies, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just check that the blend works well in baking. For a vegan version, use coconut oil instead of butter and flax eggs in place of regular eggs. A flax egg is one tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Serving Variations
Serve your blondies warm for a cozy treat. They go great with vanilla ice cream melting on top. For a chilled option, let them cool completely. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. If you’re hosting a party, cut them into smaller squares. You can even drizzle caramel sauce over them for a sweet twist!
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your Brown Butter Apple Blondies fresh, use an airtight container. Store them at room temperature if you plan to eat them in a few days. For longer storage, the fridge works well too. Just make sure they are completely cool before sealing them up.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some blondies for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each blondie in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that fresh-baked taste.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, your blondies will stay good for about three days. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Just remember, the longer they sit, the less fresh they may taste. Always check for any changes in texture or smell before enjoying your treats!
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use other apples. I recommend Honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweetness. Granny Smith adds tartness, which can balance the sugar. Braeburn apples offer a nice blend of sweet and tart flavors. Each apple type gives a unique taste and texture to the blondies.
How do I know when the blondies are done?
To check for doneness, look for a golden brown top. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, the blondies need more time. The edges should pull away from the pan slightly.
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
You can make these blondies ahead of time. Bake and cool them, then store in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
These Brown Butter Apple Blondies blend rich flavors and textures. We covered all key ingredients, including varieties of apples and sugar. I showed you how to prep and mix the batter for perfect results.
Remember to experiment with add-ins and flavors that excite you. Store your blondies properly, and they’ll last longer. The tips provided ensure a successful bake every time. Enjoy making your delicious blondies, whether warm or chilled. Happy baking!
