Craving a sweet treat that perfectly combines the flavors of fall? Look no further than my Caramel Apple Cider Blondies! These rich, chewy blondies burst with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apple cider. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a cozy night in, you’ll love how simple and tasty these treats are. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
To make delicious caramel apple cider blondies, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Each ingredient plays a key role. The butter adds moisture and richness. Brown sugar gives depth and flavor, while granulated sugar adds sweetness. Eggs bind everything together, creating a chewy texture.
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor, making each bite taste better. Flour gives structure, while baking powder and baking soda help the blondies rise. Salt balances the sweetness, and cinnamon adds warmth. Apple cider brings a fruity punch, and diced apple adds texture and freshness. Finally, caramel sauce makes it all deliciously sweet.
These ingredients together create a treat that feels like fall in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a 9×9 inch baking pan. Grease it well, or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift out the blondies later.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix until it looks smooth. Next, add in the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Sifting helps mix the dry ingredients well. This step is key for even cooking.
Blending Ingredients
Add the dry mix to the wet mix slowly. Alternate this with the apple cider. Stir gently until everything is just mixed. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the blondies tough.
Adding Diced Apples and Caramel
Fold in the diced apples carefully. Spread them evenly in the batter. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce on top. Then, add the rest of the batter and spread it out.
Baking and Cooling
Drizzle the remaining caramel on top of the last layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To check if your blondies are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. If it has wet batter, bake a few more minutes.
If your oven runs hot, check them earlier. You want a soft center and golden edges. Baking time can also change based on your pan size. For a larger pan, they might bake faster.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the blondies warm for the best taste. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top works great. You can also add more caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Another idea is to sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for a nice crunch.
Presentation Tips
For a pretty finish, cut the blondies into neat squares. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over them. A sprinkle of sea salt adds a nice contrast. Adding a thin apple slice on top makes it look fresh and inviting.
Variations
Nutty Add-Ins
You can add nuts to your blondies for extra flavor. Walnuts or pecans work great. Just chop them coarsely. Mix in about 1/2 cup of your chosen nuts when you fold in the apples. This gives a nice crunch and makes each bite even better.
Spiced Versions
Want to spice things up? Try adding different spices like nutmeg or ginger. Just a pinch can change the whole taste. You can also increase the cinnamon for a warm flavor. Experiment with these spices to find your favorite mix.
Healthy Alternatives
If you want a lighter version, there are easy swaps. Use applesauce instead of some butter. This will cut down on fat. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Another idea is to reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. These changes will help make a healthier treat without losing taste.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your caramel apple cider blondies fresh, start by letting them cool. Once cooled, cut them into squares. Place them in an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap for added protection. Keep them at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a few days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze blondies, first, let them cool completely. Cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. To thaw, take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. You can also microwave them for a few seconds to warm them up.
Shelf Life
When stored properly, caramel apple cider blondies last about 3 to 5 days at room temperature. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Freezing extends their life to about three months. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying them.
FAQs
What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If your blondies turn out dry, here are some tips to fix them:
– Add moisture: Drizzle some apple cider or extra caramel sauce on top.
– Serve warm: Heating them in the microwave can help restore some moisture.
– Use less flour: Next time, try adding a bit less flour to the mix.
– Check baking time: Make sure you do not bake them too long.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use different apples for this recipe. Here are some great choices:
– Granny Smith: This tart apple adds a nice contrast to the sweet blondies.
– Honeycrisp: These apples are sweet and crisp, making them a great option.
– Fuji: They are sweet and juicy, perfect for adding flavor and moisture.
– Gala: This type is sweet and soft, blending well with the other flavors.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Here are some suggestions for gluten-free flour alternatives:
– Almond flour: It adds a nutty flavor and keeps the blondies moist.
– Coconut flour: Use this in smaller amounts as it absorbs more moisture.
– Gluten-free all-purpose flour: Many brands work well for baking without changes.
– Oat flour: This adds a nice texture and flavor, but check for gluten-free oats.
You now have a clear recipe for caramel apple cider blondies. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Feel free to explore variations to suit your taste.
Storing them properly will keep them fresh longer. Enjoy them warm or topped for an extra treat. I hope you make these delicious blondies soon and share them with others. Happy baking!
