Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese

Apple Cinnamon Blondies With Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: The very name conjures images of cozy autumn evenings, crisp air, and the irresistible aroma of warm spices wafting through the kitchen. This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey wrapped in a delightful bar. Imagine a perfectly chewy, buttery blondie base, studded generously with tender, caramelized apple pieces and infused with the comforting warmth of cinnamon. It’s a delightful twist on the classic blondie, elevating it into a truly seasonal sensation.

Why This Dish Becomes an Instant Favorite

There’s a reason why combinations like apple and cinnamon have stood the test of time, deeply rooted in many cultures as symbols of harvest and home. This recipe brings that timeless comfort into a convenient, crowd-pleasing format. People adore these blondies not only for their incredibly moist and chewy texture but also for the vibrant burst of apple and the gentle kick of cinnamon in every bite. And then, there’s the grand finale: a silken, tangy, and subtly sweet Maple Cream Cheese Frosting that crowns each bar. This luxurious topping melts in your mouth, perfectly balancing the spiced blondie with its creamy richness. It transforms a simple treat into an extraordinary dessert, making our Apple Cinnamon Blondies With Maple Cream Cheese Frosting an absolute must-try for any occasion, from casual family get-togethers to elegant holiday spreads.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Apple Cinnamon Blondies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature, or melted and slightly cooled if preferred for a chewier texture. Using unsalted butter allows us to control the salt content in the recipe.

  • 1 ½ cups (300g) Light Brown Sugar: Packed firmly. This contributes to the rich, caramel-like flavor and moist texture that is characteristic of perfect blondies.

  • ½ cup (100g) Granulated Sugar: For added sweetness and to help achieve that slight crispness on the edges.

  • 2 Large Eggs: Ideally at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and a more consistent final product.

  • 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract: A good quality vanilla extract elevates all the flavors in the blondies, complementing the apple and cinnamon beautifully.

  • 2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour: Spooned and leveled. This is our primary dry ingredient, providing the structure for our delicious blondies.

  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder: Acts as a leavening agent, giving our blondies a slight lift and tender crumb without making them cake-like.

  • ½ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt: Crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors. Don’t skip it!

  • 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon: The star spice that pairs perfectly with the apples, providing warmth and a comforting aroma.

  • ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: An optional but highly recommended addition for an extra layer of warm spice that complements cinnamon and apple wonderfully.

  • 2 medium Apples: About 1 ½ to 2 cups diced. I prefer a mix of tart and sweet, like one Granny Smith and one Honeycrisp. Peeled, cored, and diced into small, ½-inch pieces. This size ensures they cook through and distribute evenly throughout the blondies.

  • Optional: ½ cup chopped Pecans or Walnuts: For added crunch and a nutty depth of flavor. If you’re a fan of nuts in your baked goods, these are a fantastic addition to these Apple Cinnamon Blondies.

• For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 ounces (226g) Cream Cheese: Full-fat, softened to room temperature. This is essential for a smooth, lump-free frosting. Low-fat cream cheese might make the frosting too thin.

  • ½ cup (1 stick or 113g) Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature. Like the cream cheese, proper softening ensures a creamy texture.

  • 3-4 cups (360-480g) Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Sifted. Start with 3 cups and add more if you prefer a thicker or sweeter frosting. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth frosting.

  • ¼ cup Pure Maple Syrup: Use good quality, pure maple syrup for the best flavor. This is what truly sets our Maple Cream Cheese Frosting apart, giving it an authentic, rich maple taste.

  • 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the creamy, sweet flavors of the frosting.

  • Pinch of Fine Sea Salt: Just a tiny bit to cut through the sweetness and highlight the maple and cream cheese flavors.

Preparing the Apple Cinnamon Blondies

1. Preheating and Pan Preparation:

   First things first, let’s get our oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to line mine with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the longer sides. This creates “handles” which makes lifting the cooled blondies out of the pan incredibly easy for cutting. Lightly grease the parchment paper and any exposed parts of the pan with a little butter or cooking spray. This small step ensures nothing sticks, and you get perfect squares every time.

2. Melting Butter and Combining Sugars:

   In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt your 1 cup of unsalted butter. You can also do this on the stovetop in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, or if you’re using softened butter, add the 1 ½ cups of packed light brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar to the bowl. Whisk these together until they are well combined and smooth. It might look a bit grainy at first, but keep whisking until you see a beautiful, cohesive mixture. The warmth from the butter will help dissolve the sugars slightly, leading to a wonderfully chewy texture in our finished Apple Cinnamon Blondies.

3. Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla:

   Now, crack in your 2 large eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. It’s important to whisk thoroughly here! This step incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to the blondies’ texture. After the eggs are fully integrated, stir in the 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Take a moment to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should now be light in color and smooth.

4. Whisking Dry Ingredients:

   In a separate medium bowl, combine your 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg (if using). Use a whisk to thoroughly combine these dry ingredients. This step ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing pockets of unmixed ingredients in your blondies. It also lightly aerates the flour, which can contribute to a tender crumb.

5. Combining Wet and Dry Mixtures:

   Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient mixture in the large bowl. Add about a third of the dry ingredients at a time, gently mixing with a rubber spatula or a wooden spoon until just combined before adding the next portion. The key here is not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough blondies. Mix only until no streaks of dry flour remain. The batter will be thick and rich.

6. Preparing the Apples:

   If you haven’t already, now is the time to prepare your apples. Take your two medium apples (my favorites are Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness, offering a lovely balance), peel them meticulously, core them, and then dice them into small, approximately ½-inch pieces. This size is ideal because it allows the apples to soften beautifully during baking without turning into complete mush, and they distribute evenly throughout each bite of the blondie. Avoid larger chunks as they might not cook through properly and can make the blondies harder to cut.

7. Folding in the Apples (and Optional Add-ins):

   Gently fold the diced apples into the blondie batter using your rubber spatula. Be sure to distribute them evenly throughout the batter. If you’re using the optional ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts, now is the time to fold those in as well. The goal is to incorporate these delicious additions without deflating the batter or overmixing. Give it a few gentle turns until everything looks nicely integrated.

8. Spreading Batter and Baking:

   Spoon the thick blondie batter into your prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Use your spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan, making sure it reaches all the corners. Don’t worry if it looks a little rustic; it will smooth out as it bakes. Place the pan in your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown, and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. If it comes out clean, they might be slightly overbaked, but a few moist crumbs indicate perfect chewiness. Avoid overbaking if you want super moist blondies!

9. Cooling Completely:

   Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This is a very important step, especially since we’ll be adding frosting. Allowing the blondies to cool fully, for at least 1-2 hours, is crucial. If you try to frost warm blondies, the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting will melt and slide right off, creating a mess instead of a beautiful treat. Patience is a virtue here, my friends, and it will be well rewarded when you slice into these perfectly set Apple Cinnamon Blondies.

Crafting the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Softening Cream Cheese and Butter:

   For the smoothest frosting, ensure your 8 ounces of full-fat cream cheese and ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter are both at true room temperature. I usually take them out of the fridge at least an hour before I plan to make the frosting. If they’re too cold, your frosting will be lumpy, and if they’re too warm (especially the butter), the frosting might be too runny. Just soft enough to yield to a gentle press is perfect.

2. Beating Cream Cheese Until Smooth:

   In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be completely smooth and free of any lumps. This initial step is critical for a truly velvety frosting, so don’t rush it. Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even beating.

3. Beating in Butter:

   Add the softened unsalted butter to the cream cheese. Continue beating on medium speed for another 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. The texture should be uniform and airy. Again, pause to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure no butter or cream cheese remains unmixed at the bottom or sides.

4. Gradually Adding Powdered Sugar:

   Now, it’s time for the sweetness! Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until each addition is incorporated before increasing the speed to medium. This slow addition prevents a cloud of powdered sugar from coating your kitchen! Start with 3 cups, and once fully mixed, assess the consistency. If you prefer a thicker or sweeter Maple Cream Cheese Frosting for your Apple Cinnamon Blondies, continue to add the remaining powdered sugar, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency and sweetness level. The frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable.

5. Incorporating Maple Syrup, Vanilla, and Salt:

   Once the powdered sugar is incorporated, pour in the ¼ cup of pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and that crucial pinch of fine sea salt. Beat on medium speed for another 1-2 minutes, until all these delicious flavors are fully integrated, and the frosting becomes even lighter and fluffier. The maple syrup will give it that incredible, signature warmth, while the salt balances the sweetness beautifully.

6. Whipping Until Light and Fluffy:

   Give the frosting one final whip on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds. This aeration will make your Maple Cream Cheese Frosting incredibly light and airy, perfect for spreading over your blondies. Taste it to adjust for sweetness or maple flavor if desired – you can add a tiny bit more maple syrup or powdered sugar if needed, beating briefly to combine.

Assembling and Serving the Apple Cinnamon Blondies

1. Ensuring Blondies are Fully Cooled:

   This cannot be stressed enough: make sure your Apple Cinnamon Blondies are completely, utterly cooled before even thinking about frosting them. I mean absolutely cold to the touch, not even slightly warm. If they are even a little warm, your beautifully crafted Maple Cream Cheese Frosting will melt into a sad, sugary puddle, and all your hard work will be undone. I often let mine cool for at least two hours, or even pop them in the fridge for 30 minutes once they’re cool enough, just to be sure.

2. Spreading the Frosting Evenly:

   Once your blondies are cool, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire slab out of the baking pan and transfer it to a cutting board or a large serving platter. This makes frosting and cutting much easier. Take your glorious Maple Cream Cheese Frosting and dollop generous spoonfuls over the top of the cooled blondies. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the frosting evenly across the entire surface, all the way to the edges. You can make it as smooth or as artfully swirled as you like. I often leave gentle swirls for a more rustic, homemade look. The creamy, maple-kissed frosting will be a perfect contrast to the chewy, apple-infused blondies.

3. Optional Garnishes:

   To really make these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting shine, consider adding some optional garnishes. A light dusting of extra ground cinnamon over the top not only looks lovely but also reinforces that cozy spice flavor. You could also sprinkle a few more chopped pecans or walnuts for an additional textural crunch. Sometimes, I even thinly slice a small apple and arrange a few delicate pieces on top for a fresh, elegant touch. These small details truly elevate the presentation.

4. Chilling (If Desired and for Setting):

   While you can certainly dig in right away, I highly recommend chilling the frosted blondies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting to firm up beautifully, making for cleaner cuts and a more stable, less messy dessert. The flavors also meld together wonderfully when given a little time to set.

5. Cutting and Serving:

   After chilling (or if you’re too eager to wait!), it’s time to cut your masterpieces. Using a sharp knife, slice the blondies into squares or rectangles of your desired size. For super neat slices, wipe your knife clean with a warm, damp cloth between each cut, especially after the frosting has set. These Apple Cinnamon Blondies With Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are absolutely perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweet, spiced apples and rich, creamy maple goodness.

6. Storage Instructions:

   Any leftover Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. The frosting, being cream cheese-based, requires refrigeration to maintain its quality and food safety. While they are amazing chilled, I often find that letting them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving enhances their texture, making the blondie softer and the frosting just a touch creamier. Enjoy every single bite!

Conclusion:

As we wrap up our journey through this delightful recipe, I truly hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about the prospect of creating these incredible treats in your own kitchen. We’ve explored the magic that happens when crisp, sweet apples meet warming cinnamon, all nestled within a tender, chewy blondie base. But let’s be honest, the real showstopper, the crowning glory that elevates this simple bake to an unforgettable dessert experience, is undoubtedly the luxurious Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s that perfect balance of tangy cream cheese, rich, earthy maple, and just the right amount of sweetness that ties every single element together into a symphony of autumnal flavors. The Apple Cinnamon Blondies With Maple Cream Cheese Frosting isn’t just another dessert; it’s an edible hug, a slice of pure comfort that evokes cozy memories and creates new ones. It’s the kind of bake that makes your home smell absolutely incredible, drawing everyone into the kitchen with its irresistible aroma, a true testament to its comforting allure.

I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for so many reasons. For starters, it’s remarkably straightforward to follow, yielding consistently perfect results even for those who might not consider themselves seasoned bakers. The texture of the blondies themselves is absolutely divine – a perfect chewiness that’s neither too cakey nor too dense, studded with soft, flavorful apple chunks that burst with natural sweetness. The subtle hint of cinnamon throughout the blondie complements the apples beautifully, creating a warmth that’s incredibly inviting. Then there’s the frosting; oh, the frosting! It’s smooth, creamy, and spreadable, offering a delightful counterpoint to the spiced blondie. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and spiced notes, making these blondies truly irresistible. They are perfect for bringing to a potluck, serving at a family gathering, or simply enjoying with a quiet cup of coffee on a chilly afternoon. They also make a fantastic gift for friends and neighbors, spreading joy one delicious square at a time.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:

While these blondies are absolutely phenomenal straight from the pan, perhaps still a little warm with that frosting just beginning to soften, there are countless ways to enjoy them and make them your own. For a truly decadent experience, try serving a warm square of Apple Cinnamon Blondies With Maple Cream Cheese Frosting with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm blondie is a sensation you won’t soon forget. A light dusting of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of pure maple syrup just before serving can also elevate their presentation and flavor. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, a frothy latte, or even a glass of chilled milk. Consider cutting them into smaller, bite-sized squares for a dessert platter, or larger, more substantial pieces for a satisfying treat.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize this recipe to your heart’s content! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Apple Varieties: While I’ve recommended certain apples for their texture and tartness, feel free to experiment. Granny Smith will offer a tangier bite, while Honeycrisp or Fuji will provide more sweetness and a crisper texture even after baking.
• Add-ins: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans into the blondie batter. White chocolate chips would also be a delightful addition, adding another dimension of sweetness and creaminess.
• Spice Profile: If you’re a fan of deeper spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even a tiny dash of ground cloves to your blondie batter. Just remember, a little goes a long way with these stronger spices.
• Frosting Flavors: While the maple cream cheese frosting is divine, you could also experiment with a brown butter cream cheese frosting for a nutty twist, or even a simple vanilla bean glaze if you prefer something lighter.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: For those with dietary restrictions, while not fully tested here, you could try substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Your Baking Adventure Awaits!

Now that you have all the tools and inspiration, I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from baking something from scratch, especially when the end result is as utterly delicious as these blondies. Imagine the joy on the faces of your family and friends when they taste these homemade treats. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the changing seasons, a special occasion, or simply to treat yourself to something truly wonderful. Trust me, once you experience the comforting warmth and exquisite flavor of these Apple Cinnamon Blondies With Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, they’re sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire.

Share Your Masterpiece!

I would absolutely love to hear about your baking experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you venture into some of the variations I suggested? What kind of apples did you use? How did your family react? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, photos, and any creative twists you added in the comments section below or on social media. Your feedback and personal stories are what make this community so vibrant and inspiring. Happy baking, and enjoy every single delightful bite of these magnificent blondies!

Apple Cinnamon Blondies with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

A perfectly chewy, buttery blondie base, generously studded with tender apple pieces and warm cinnamon, crowned with a silken, tangy, and subtly sweet Maple Cream Cheese Frosting. A delightful seasonal twist on a classic dessert.

Prep Time
40 Minutes

Cook Time
30 Minutes

Total Time
10 Minutes

Servings
18 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (2 sticks)
• 1 2/3 cup brown sugar (330g), packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 290 grams all-purpose flour (2 1/3 cups), spooned and leveled
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (approx. 2 medium)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 6 oz cream cheese, full-fat, softened
• 1/2 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. Lightly grease the parchment and exposed pan areas.
2. Step 2
   In a large bowl, melt 1 cup unsalted butter. Whisk in 1 2/3 cups brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
3. Step 3
   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 290g all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
4. Step 4
   Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in diced apples and optional nuts until evenly distributed.
5. Step 5
   Spoon batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
6. Step 6
   Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely for at least 1-2 hours before frosting.
7. Step 7
   Ensure 6 oz cream cheese and 1/2 stick butter are at room temperature. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth (2-3 min). Add butter and beat until light and fluffy (2-3 min). Gradually add 3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar, beating until incorporated. Beat in 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of fine sea salt until light and fluffy.
8. Step 8
   Once blondies are completely cool, lift them from the pan using the parchment overhang. Spread frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with extra cinnamon or nuts. Chill frosted blondies for 30-60 minutes to allow frosting to set for cleaner cuts.
9. Step 9
   Slice into desired squares or rectangles. Wipe knife clean between cuts for neatness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.