Ingredients
For the Blondies
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks), melted
- 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1⅔ cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Apples
- 2 cups apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block), softened to room temperature
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, plus extra for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the peeled and chopped apples along with ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. Cook the apples until tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the Blondie Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until just combined. Fold in the cooked apples gently to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Blondies: Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Mix in the pure maple syrup and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost the Blondies: Once the blondies are completely cool, spread the maple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Lightly dust with additional cinnamon for a finishing touch. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Be sure the blondies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- You can substitute the apples with pears for a different fruity twist.
- Use pure maple syrup for an authentic flavor in the frosting.
- Store the blondies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For easier slicing, refrigerate the frosted blondies for 30 minutes before cutting.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
