Easy Apple Blondies – Soft, Spiced & Full of Fall Flavor

Looking for a cozy autumn treat that’s easier than pie but just as satisfying? These Apple Brownies are soft, chewy dessert bars packed with fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery richness. Despite the name, there’s no chocolate—these are blondie-style bars with a fall twist. Think of them as a cross between a spiced cookie and a moist apple cake—perfect with a cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or straight from the pan.

They’re quick to make, use everyday ingredients, and come together in under an hour. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, school treat, or just a fall craving, this easy recipe hits the sweet spot.

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Ingredients Overview: Fall Pantry Favorites

Apples

Fresh apples provide moisture, flavor, and texture.

• Best varieties: Granny Smith (tart and firm), Honeycrisp, or Fuji

• Peel and dice into small chunks for even baking

Butter

Provides richness and that chewy edge-to-soft center contrast.

• Use unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled.

Brown Sugar & White Sugar

A combination creates depth and chew.

• Brown sugar adds moisture and warm caramel notes.

• White sugar balances the flavor and gives the crust a slight crispness.

Eggs

Bind the batter and give it structure.

• Room temperature eggs blend more easily and evenly.

All-Purpose Flour

The base of the bars.

• No fancy flours needed—just spoon and level for accurate measuring.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg

Add warm spice that enhances the apple flavor.

• Cinnamon is essential; nutmeg optional but lovely.

Baking Powder & Salt

Leavening and flavor enhancement.

Optional Add-ins

• Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch

• White chocolate chips for extra indulgence

• Raisins or dried cranberries for texture contrast

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Apple Brownies

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease or line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• ½ cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Whisk until smooth and glossy. Add:

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix until fully incorporated.

3. Add Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl, stir in:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.

4. Fold in Apples

• Add 1½ cups peeled, diced apples (about 1 large or 2 small apples).

• Optional: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or white chocolate chips.

Stir gently until evenly distributed.

5. Bake

• Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

• Let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips:

• Don’t overmix—this keeps the brownies tender.

• Dice apples finely to ensure even baking.

• Check doneness early—they should be moist, not dry.

Delicious Variations:

• Caramel Apple Brownies: Drizzle with caramel sauce before or after baking.

• Apple Spice Glaze: Whisk ½ cup powdered sugar with 1 tbsp apple cider and drizzle over cooled bars.

• Apple Pie Bars: Add a layer of cinnamon-sugar apples in the center and top with streusel before baking.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour with xanthan gum.

• Vegan: Substitute flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed + 5 tbsp water) and vegan butter.

• Refined Sugar-Free: Use coconut sugar or maple sugar instead of white and brown sugar.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

These apple brownies are perfect for:

• After-school snacks or lunchbox treats

• Thanksgiving dessert trays

• Potlucks, bake sales, or cozy coffee dates

• Make-ahead fall desserts

Serve them:

• Warm with vanilla ice cream

• Topped with cinnamon whipped cream

• Drizzled with maple glaze or caramel sauce

Wrap them individually for a sweet autumn gift or serve on a platter for easy entertaining.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

These bars are:

• Lower in fat than traditional brownies

• Naturally fruit-forward thanks to fresh apples

• Easy to portion—cut into 9 or 16 bars depending on size preference

To make them lighter:

• Use unsweetened applesauce for half the butter

• Reduce sugar by 2–3 tablespoons

• Use whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber

Each bite delivers the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and chewy texture—ideal for fall cravings.

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FAQ

1. Can I use shredded apples instead of diced?

Yes! Shredded apples give a more uniform, cake-like texture, while diced apples offer chunks and chew. Use what you prefer.

2. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 35–40 minutes.

3. Can I make these apple brownies in advance?

Yes! They store well. Keep at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze apple brownies?

Definitely. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.

5. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. Unpeeled apples add a rustic texture, but peeled apples give a smoother bite.

6. Why are they called brownies if there’s no chocolate?

“Brownie” in this case refers to the bar shape and chewy texture, not the flavor. These are blondie-style apple bars.

7. Can I add a glaze or frosting?

Yes! Try a cream cheese glaze, apple cider glaze, or classic vanilla icing for extra sweetness.

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