Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of Brown Butter Salted Caramel Apple Blondies! You’ll love how the rich brown butter melds with sweet apples and a decadent caramel swirl. This treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet. Join me as I guide you through each step, from gathering the ingredients to taking that first delicious bite. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith)
– ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Flaky sea salt for topping
Brown Butter Salted Caramel Apple Blondies start with simple ingredients. You need unsalted butter, which gives a rich taste. Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. Eggs bind everything, while vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma.
For the structure, all-purpose flour is essential. Baking powder and baking soda help the blondies rise. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness. The star of the show is the apple, which adds freshness and flavor.
You can use any apple, but I love Granny Smith. Its tartness pairs well with the sweet caramel. Speaking of caramel, you can use store-bought or make your own. Lastly, finish with flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty touch.
These ingredients combine to create a delightful treat. Each bite offers a mix of flavors and textures. You will love how easy they are to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy removal.
Browning the Butter
– Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
– Stir constantly until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
– Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Mixing the Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine the browned butter and 1 ½ cups of packed brown sugar. Whisk until smooth.
– Add 2 large eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
– In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
– Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined.
– Carefully fold in 1 large diced apple until it is evenly mixed in.
Assembling the Blondies
– Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out.
– Drizzle half of the ½ cup caramel sauce over this layer.
– Spread the remaining batter on top and drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce on this layer.
– Use a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect by swirling the caramel gently into the batter.
Baking the Blondies
– Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean, though some moist crumbs are fine.
– Once baked, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top while the blondies are still warm.
– Let them cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Brown Butter
To get the right color and aroma, watch the butter closely. Melt it in a medium pan over medium heat. Stir it constantly. After about five to seven minutes, it will turn a golden brown. The nutty smell tells you it’s done. If it smells burnt, you need to start over.
To avoid burnt butter pitfalls, use a light-colored pan. This way, you can see the color change better. If you see dark bits forming, take it off the heat at once.
Choosing the Right Apple
For the best flavor and texture, go with Granny Smith apples. They add a nice tartness that pairs well with sweet caramel. Other good options are Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. They hold their shape and taste great.
When preparing apples, peel and dice them. Aim for small, even pieces. This helps them cook evenly in the blondies.
Storing and Reheating
For optimal freshness, store blondies at room temperature in an airtight container. They will stay good for up to three days. To keep them longer, refrigerate them. Just remember to bring them back to room temp before serving.
To reheat, place a blondie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This helps revive the soft texture. You can also warm them in the oven at 350°F for about five minutes. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
Variations
Chocolate Chip Addition
You can add chocolate chips to the batter for more sweetness. Just fold in a cup of your favorite chips after mixing in the flour. The chocolate pairs well with the apple and caramel. This addition brings a rich flavor and fun texture. It makes the blondies even more enjoyable!
Nutty Twists
Nuts add a great crunch and flavor to your blondies. Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. Use about half a cup for a nice crunch without overpowering the other flavors. Nuts give your blondies a lovely bite. They also add healthy fats to balance the sweetness.
Alternative Sauces
If you want a twist, try using different sauces. Butterscotch sauce adds a rich, buttery flavor. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for a decadent touch. Experiment with your favorite toppings to make these blondies your own. Each sauce will change the taste and bring new joy to every bite.
Storage Info
Storing at Room Temperature
You can keep your Brown Butter Salted Caramel Apple Blondies at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. Make sure to store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration Tips
To store blondies in the fridge, wrap them well in plastic wrap. This keeps them moist and prevents them from absorbing other odors. They can last up to a week in the fridge. When you want to eat one, just take it out and let it sit for a few minutes to soften.
Freezing the Blondies
If you want to freeze your blondies, cut them into squares first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
FAQs
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes, you can. To make these blondies gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your blend has xanthan gum for the best texture. You might also try almond flour or coconut flour. Just remember that these flours can change the taste and texture slightly.
How do I know when the blondies are done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your blondies are ready. They should also look golden brown on top. The edges may pull away slightly from the pan.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe easily. Just multiply each ingredient by two. Use a larger baking pan, like a 12×18 inch pan. Keep an eye on baking time, as it may take a bit longer. Check for doneness with a toothpick in the center.
You learned how to make delicious blondies using simple ingredients. You saw the steps, from browning butter to mixing in apples and caramel. Perfecting this recipe lets you add your own twists, like nuts or chocolate chips. Storing them right keeps them fresh and tasty. I hope you enjoy trying this recipe. You can impress your friends or family with your baking skills. Enjoy every bite of your sweet creation!
