Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe

Let me tell you, these Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe bars are an absolute game changer when it comes to cozy fall desserts. I love this recipe because the richness of the nutty browned butter pairs so perfectly with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked right into the blondies — it’s like autumn hugs you in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving something sweet and comforting with your afternoon tea, these blondies have you covered.

When I first tried this Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe, I was floored by how luscious the texture was — moist but sturdy enough to hold a drizzle of that dreamy cinnamon-maple glaze. And let me tell you, the glaze is where this recipe really shines: that warm sweetness combined with a hint of spice brings everything to the next level. You’ll find this recipe perfect for impressing friends while keeping it simple enough to whip up on a weekday evening.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together beautifully to create a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Plus, each one is easy to find in stores, so you can get baking without any hassle.

• Salted butter: Browning the butter unlocks a rich, toasty aroma that’s the backbone of the whole recipe.
• Apple butter: Adds moisture and a concentrated apple flavor that makes every bite extra tender.
• Light brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and helps keep the blondies soft and chewy.
• Eggs: They bind everything together and contribute to the tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract: A splash enhances all the flavors and adds warmth.
• All-purpose flour: You can swap with gluten-free flour if needed, but choose one that’s reliable to keep the texture spot-on.
• Baking powder: For just a touch of lift so the blondies aren’t too dense.
• Cinnamon: The classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples — don’t skimp on it here!
• Nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth that elevates the spice blend.
• Kosher salt: Balances out the sweetness and deepens flavors.
• Honeycrisp apples: I recommend peeling and chopping them for tender, juicy bites that won’t overpower the blondies.
• Maple syrup: For the glaze, it adds natural sweetness and a hint of woodsy flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Helps create a smooth, luscious glaze texture.
• Flaky sea salt: Just a pinch on the glaze cuts through sweetness beautifully.

Variations

I love tweaking this recipe depending on what I have on hand or the season. Feel free to play around with different apples or swap nuts in for an extra crunch — personalization always makes baking more fun!

• Gluten-free version: I’ve used Cup4Cup gluten-free flour with great success, and it keeps the blondies moist and tender.
• Nut addition: Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that complements the softness.
• Different fruit: Pears work beautifully too, especially when they’re ripe and sweet.
• Spice swaps: Experiment with a pinch of cardamom or ground ginger for a twist on the spice profile.

How to Make Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter and Mix the Base

Start by melting the salted butter over medium heat, stirring often so it browns evenly and develops that irresistible toasted aroma — about 2-3 minutes will do. This is where you get that rich nutty flavor that makes this recipe so special. Remove from heat and whisk in the apple butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar. Let the mixture cool for 5 minutes to avoid scrambling the eggs when you add them next. Then whisk in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold Into Wet

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and kosher salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients to your brown butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Resist the urge to overmix — you want tender blondies, not chewy ones!

Step 3: Prepare the Apples and Layer the Batter

Toss chopped Honeycrisp apples with ½ cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl. Spread your blondie batter evenly in a parchment-lined 9×13 inch pan, then scatter the sugared apples over the top. This ensures you get juicy bursts of apple flavor in every bite. Pop the pan into the preheated 350°F oven.

Step 4: Bake and Check for Doneness

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking at the 25 minute mark. The blondies should be just set in the center but still soft — if you notice liquid pooling in the middle, swirl it around with a knife and bake an extra 5 minutes. Let the bars cool completely before glazing.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Maple Glaze and Drizzle

While the blondies cool, pop 3 tablespoons salted butter into a small pan over medium heat and brown it lightly — about 2-3 minutes — until fragrant. Remove from heat, whisk in maple syrup, powdered sugar (start with ½ cup and add more to reach desired thickness), cinnamon, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled blondies and let it set for 5 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top these blondies with a few extra sprinkles of flaky sea salt – that little salty pop really enhances the flavors. Sometimes I add chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon powder just before serving for extra texture and aroma.

Side Dishes

Pairing these blondies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce makes an indulgent dessert experience. For a more casual treat, my family loves enjoying them alongside a warm cup of chai or hot apple cider.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special occasions, I like to cut the blondies into smaller squares and arrange them on a pretty platter with additional cinnamon sticks and fresh apple slices around. It makes for a festive display that feels extra inviting — guests often ask for the recipe right then and there!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover blondies stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days — the glaze stays nice and soft. If it’s warmer in your kitchen, popping them in the fridge extends freshness to about 4 days, though I recommend bringing them to room temp before eating.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, these blondies freeze beautifully. Just slice and wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They thaw quickly at room temperature or can be popped in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a warm, gooey treat anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, I usually microwave a blondie for 20-25 seconds until warm but not hot — it restores that freshly-baked feel. If you like, add an extra drizzle of maple glaze or a scoop of ice cream for an even better experience.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely adore the way these Brown Butter Apple Blondies with Cinnamon Maple Glaze Recipe turn out every single time — they’ve become my go-to for sharing a little fall joy with friends and family. I hope you’ll find baking them as satisfying and rewarding as I do because they’re truly one of those comforting desserts that feels made with love. Give this recipe a try soon, and I bet it’ll become a staple in your baking rotation too!

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