Are you ready to bake something incredible? These Cinnamon Blondies topped with Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Frosting will be your new go-to treat! They’re soft, sweet, and packed with warm flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps, share tips for success, and explore fun variations. Let’s dive in and create some mouthwatering magic together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cinnamon Blondies
To make these cinnamon blondies, you will need the following main ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
These ingredients come together to create a rich, sweet base. The butter adds moisture and flavor. Brown sugar gives a deep sweetness, while the granulated sugar balances it out. Eggs help bind everything, and vanilla adds warmth. Flour provides structure, while baking powder and soda create lift. Cinnamon gives that cozy, warm taste we love.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Frosting
For the frosting, gather these ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 small apple, peeled and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of cinnamon (for garnish)
This frosting is creamy and sweet, with a lovely apple crunch. The cream cheese adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with caramel. Mixing in the apple gives texture and freshness. The powdered sugar sweetens it just right, while cinnamon on top adds a lovely finish.
Possible Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap some ingredients for others.
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness.
– Try using applesauce in place of eggs for a vegan twist.
– For gluten-free blondies, use a gluten-free flour blend.
– If you don’t have cream cheese, mascarpone works as a great substitute in the frosting.
These substitutions help you modify the recipe to fit your needs. Experimenting can lead to fun new flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Blondie Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined. Avoid over mixing.
Baking the Cinnamon Blondies
Pour the blondie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the blondies are ready. Let them cool in the pan.
Making the Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Frosting
While the blondies cool, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar. Mix until fully incorporated. Then, add 1/2 cup of caramel sauce, 1 small chopped apple, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Frosting and Serving the Blondies
Once the blondies are cool, spread the caramel apple cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a nice touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top. Slice the blondies into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich flavors and the sweet aroma!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfectly Moist Blondies
To make moist blondies, start with warm butter. Melted butter keeps the blondies soft. Use light brown sugar for a chewy texture and rich flavor. Avoid over-mixing the batter. Just mix until you see no dry flour. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Underbaking just a bit keeps them soft and gooey.
Frosting Tips for Maximum Flavor
For the best frosting, use room-temperature cream cheese. This helps it blend smoothly. Whip the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar slowly to avoid lumps. Don’t forget the caramel sauce! It gives a sweet, rich taste. Mix in finely chopped apples for a fresh crunch. Top with a pinch of cinnamon for an extra kick.
Presentation Ideas for Serving
Serve these blondies on a rustic wooden board for charm. Drizzle more caramel sauce over them for a stunning look. Cut them into squares and stack them high for height. Garnish with apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It makes your dessert not only tasty but beautiful too!
Variations
Nut Additions or Alternatives
You can add nuts to your blondies for crunch. Chopped walnuts or pecans work great. Just stir in about a cup of nuts after mixing your batter. If you want to skip nuts, you can use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They add a nice texture without the nutty taste.
Swapping Flavors in the Frosting
You can change the frosting to fit your taste. Try adding a bit of maple syrup instead of caramel for a new twist. You could also mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolate flavor. Just add about 1/4 cup of cocoa powder when making the frosting. This gives a fun new flavor while keeping the creaminess.
Gluten-Free Options for Blondies
If you want gluten-free blondies, swap out regular flour for gluten-free flour. Look for a blend that works well in baking. You can use 1:1 gluten-free flour blends, which work great here. This way, everyone can enjoy the sweet taste of cinnamon blondies. Make sure to check your baking powder too, as some brands may contain gluten.
Storage Info
How to Store Cinnamon Blondies
To keep your cinnamon blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Use wax paper or parchment to separate layers. This way, they won’t stick together. Keep them at room temperature for up to five days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigeration.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze cinnamon blondies for later use. First, let them cool completely. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips for Best Texture
To reheat your blondies, use the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them gently without drying them out. If you want a crispy edge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-10 minutes. They will taste freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I make these blondies dairy-free?
Yes, you can make these blondies dairy-free! Use dairy-free butter and a dairy-free cream cheese. You can also swap the caramel sauce for a dairy-free version. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without dairy!
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
To check if the blondies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, bake them for a few more minutes.
What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
If you don’t have caramel sauce, you can try using maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Both options add sweetness and a unique flavor. You could also make a simple homemade caramel if you prefer.
How long do these blondies last?
These blondies can last for about 4 to 5 days at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they can stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture.
Cinnamon blondies topped with caramel apple cream cheese frosting are a delight. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step prep, and tips for moistness. You now know variations to suit your taste, storage methods, and answers to common questions. Enjoy baking these treats and share them with friends. With simple steps, you can create a dessert that brings smiles. Keep experimenting, and have fun in the kitchen!
