Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of brown butter apple blondies. These delectable treats combine the nutty essence of browned butter with the sweetness of apples and a hint of vanilla, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for autumn gatherings or a cozy dessert, these blondies are sure to become a favorite.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you might need to pay special attention to unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Ensure you get unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the blondies. Fresh apples are also essential; opt for a variety that holds up well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Ingredients for Brown Butter Apple Blondies
Unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base and is browned to add a nutty flavor.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with the blondies' texture.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.
All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the blondies.
Baking powder: Helps the blondies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Apples: Adds a fresh, fruity element and moisture to the blondies.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When browning butter, keep a close eye on it as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly. Stir constantly and watch for the butter to turn a deep amber color and develop a nutty aroma. This process enhances the flavor of the blondies by adding a rich, toasty note.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
browned unsalted butter - Substitute with regular unsalted butter: You can use regular unsalted butter and brown it yourself by heating it until it turns a golden brown color, which will give you the same nutty flavor.
browned unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: For a dairy-free option, coconut oil can provide a similar fat content and moisture, though it will impart a slight coconut flavor.
packed brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
packed brown sugar - Substitute with white sugar and molasses: Mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses to mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar.
granulated sugar - Substitute with cane sugar: Cane sugar has a similar texture and sweetness level, making it a good direct substitute.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Use ¾ cup of honey for every cup of granulated sugar, but reduce the other liquids in the recipe slightly to compensate for the extra moisture.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a great vegan alternative.
large eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. This will add moisture and a slight apple flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract has a different but complementary flavor. Use half the amount as it is more potent.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, sweet flavor. Use the same amount as the vanilla extract.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Use slightly less, about 1 ¾ cups for every 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder.
baking powder - Substitute with self-rising flour: If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide a slightly different mineral flavor.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in the same quantity but may have a slightly different texture.
peeled and diced apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness level, making them a good substitute.
peeled and diced apple - Substitute with diced peaches: Peaches can add a slightly different flavor but will provide similar moisture and sweetness.
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How To Store or Freeze These Blondies
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before attempting to store them. This ensures they set properly and maintain their delightful texture.
For short-term storage, cut the blondies into squares and place them in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you prefer to refrigerate, place the blondies in an airtight container, again using parchment paper between layers. They can be refrigerated for up to a week. Before serving, you might want to let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly for the best flavor.
For freezing, wrap each blondie square individually in plastic wrap. This helps to preserve their moisture and prevents freezer burn. Place the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. The blondies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the blondies at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, you can microwave them for a few seconds or heat them in a low oven until just warmed through.
If you want to add a touch of freshness, consider serving the thawed blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of temperatures and textures will elevate the dessert experience.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brown butter apple blondies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the moisture and texture of the blondies.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place a piece of the blondie on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 10 seconds if necessary. Be cautious not to overheat, as the sugars can become too hot and make the blondie tough.
If you prefer a slightly crispy edge, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the blondies on a small baking tray and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method gives a nice balance of a warm center and a slightly crisp exterior.
For an indulgent twist, reheat the blondies in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the blondie in the skillet and heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This method adds a deliciously caramelized edge to the blondie.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the blondies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook. This method provides a quick and efficient way to reheat while maintaining a delightful texture.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the blondies at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).
9x13 inch baking pan: The pan where the blondie batter will be spread and baked.
Saucepan: Used to melt and brown the butter over medium heat.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the browned butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Separate bowl: Another bowl to whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk: Used to mix the dry ingredients together.
Spatula: Handy for folding in the diced apple and spreading the batter evenly in the baking pan.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugars, and butter.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.
Peeler: To peel the apple before dicing it.
Knife: For dicing the peeled apple into small pieces.
Cutting board: A surface to safely dice the apple.
Toothpick: Used to check if the blondies are done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.
Cooling rack: Allows the blondies to cool evenly in the pan before cutting into squares.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to save time during the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Quickly dice the apple using a food processor instead of chopping by hand.
Soften butter quickly: Cut the butter into small pieces to speed up the browning process.
Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and less cleanup.
Mix dry ingredients ahead: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in advance and store in an airtight container.
Brown Butter Apple Blondies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter browned
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup apple peeled and diced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the diced apple. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
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