Craving a sweet treat that marries the cozy flavors of fall? Discover my recipe for Salted Caramel Apple Blondies! These blondies are soft, rich, and full of juicy apples, drizzled with gooey caramel. With simple steps, you’ll create a dessert that impresses everyone. Whether for family gatherings or a cozy night in, these blondies are a must-try. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 1 cup 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
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped apples
– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
– Sea salt for sprinkling
To make salted caramel apple blondies, you need simple ingredients. I find that using fresh apples enhances the flavor. You can use about one or two medium apples, depending on their size. The butter adds richness, while the sugars give it that sweet taste. The salt in the recipe balances the sweetness perfectly.
Use quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. I often recommend checking the label for pure vanilla, as it makes a difference. Baking powder and baking soda help the blondies rise and stay soft.
When you mix the ingredients, make sure to fold the apples in gently. This keeps the apples intact and makes the blondies more fun to eat. The salted caramel sauce adds a lovely layer of flavor. You can make it at home or buy it.
Lastly, don’t forget the sea salt for sprinkling. It gives that extra touch. This combination of flavors creates a delightful dessert treat. Enjoy making these blondies!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Baking Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take a 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the blondies easily later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use a whisk to blend them until smooth. Now, crack in 2 large eggs. Whisk each egg in well before adding the next one. Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mix adds structure to your blondies. Slowly fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Stop mixing when just combined; this keeps your blondies soft.
Folding in Apples and Caramel
Now it’s time to add some fun! Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped apples and 1/4 cup of salted caramel sauce. Use a spatula to mix carefully. Don’t overmix; you want to keep those apple pieces intact for texture.
Baking Process
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce on top. Use a knife to swirl it into the batter. This adds flavor throughout. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Finishing Touches
Once baked, take the pan out of the oven. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan. This helps them set. Before serving, sprinkle sea salt on top. This adds the perfect touch of flavor to balance the sweetness. Enjoy your salted caramel apple blondies warm or at room temperature!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Blondie Texture
To get that soft and chewy texture, use melted butter. It helps make the blondies rich. Do not overmix the batter. This causes them to become tough. Add the apples gently. They should blend in without breaking apart. Bake until just golden on top. This keeps them moist and delicious.
How to Make Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce
To make your own salted caramel sauce, start with sugar. Heat it in a pan until it melts. Stir it gently to avoid burning. Once melted, add butter and mix well. Carefully pour in cream and stir until smooth. Finally, add a pinch of sea salt. This sauce is great for drizzling on your blondies.
Presentation Tips for Serving
Cut the blondies into even squares. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board for a nice look. Drizzle extra salted caramel on top. A sprinkle of sea salt adds a nice touch. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes the dessert extra special and inviting.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Chocolate Chips
You can make your blondies even better by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch and flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet touch. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of your choice. This will create a fun flavor mix with the apples and caramel.
Alternative Fruits for Blondies
If you want to switch it up, try different fruits. Pears or peaches work well in these blondies. You can also use berries like blueberries or raspberries. Just chop them into small pieces and mix them in. This change will give your blondies a unique taste while keeping them moist.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum. This will help keep your blondies soft and chewy. Follow the same steps as in the original recipe, and you will have a tasty gluten-free treat.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Blondies
To keep your salted caramel apple blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Blondies stay best at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
How to Freeze Blondies
Freezing blondies is easy and a great way to save them. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy your blondies again, reheating them is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This warms them up nicely and brings back the gooey caramel. You can also use a microwave. Heat each blondie for 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they may get dry.
FAQs
How do I know when Blondies are done baking?
You can tell when blondies are done by checking the center. Insert a toothpick into the middle. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If there is wet batter, bake them a little longer. This ensures a soft and chewy texture.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use many types of apples in this recipe. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala work well. Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast. Feel free to mix different apples for a fun twist.
Is it safe to eat raw eggs in this recipe?
Using fresh eggs is generally safe for most people. However, if you have concerns, look for pasteurized eggs. They reduce the risk of foodborne illness while still giving you that rich flavor.
How long do salted caramel apple blondies last?
Salted caramel apple blondies can last up to a week. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge. Just remember to let them warm up before eating for the best taste.
Can I substitute brown sugar with something else?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or a light granulated sugar. Using honey or maple syrup can also work, but it may change the texture. Adjust the liquid in the recipe if you use a liquid sweetener.
You can whip up tasty salted caramel apple blondies with simple steps. First, gather the ingredients and follow the easy instructions. Mix your wet and dry items, then fold in apples and caramel. Don’t forget the fun tips for texture and presentation! You can even try variations with nuts or gluten-free options. Store any leftovers well to enjoy later. Overall, these blondies are a crowd-pleaser and fun to make. Enjoy every bite of your sweet creation!
