Name: Irresistibly Chewy Apple Blondies with Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Apples (peeled and chopped); 1-2 tbsp Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup (for sweetness); 0.5 tsp Ground Cinnamon (for warmth); 7/8 cup Vegan Butter (or melted coconut oil); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1.5 tsp Baking Powder (for leavening); 0.5 tsp Salt (to balance sweetness); 0.25 tsp Ground Nutmeg (optional for spice); 1.25 cups Brown Sugar (main sweetener); 0.5 cup Apple Sauce (unsweetened, or eggs/banana for non-vegans); 1.5 tsp Vanilla Extract (to enhance flavor); Chopped Walnuts (for crunch, omit for nut-free); Caramel Sauce (for drizzling on top)

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The aroma of cinnamon and sweet apples wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn gatherings, where dessert is a star player. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Soft and Chewy Vegan Apple Blondies with Caramel Sauce—a delightful fusion that captures the heart of both apple pie and blondies in a simple, vegan-friendly treat. These luscious bars are not only quick to whip up in just 10 minutes but also make for a perfect crowd-pleaser, effortlessly keeping the fast food temptations at bay. With their chewy texture and rich caramel drizzle, they’re a year-round indulgence you’ll find irresistible. Curious about how to elevate your dessert game with this unique twist? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why Are These Apple Blondies Irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: These vegan apple blondies come together in just 10 minutes!
Flavor explosion: The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and rich caramel creates a taste sensation you’ll adore.
Chewy texture: With a fudgy consistency reminiscent of brownies, every bite is pure bliss.
Perfect for sharing: Impress your friends and family—these blondies are a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to disappear quickly!
Endless variations: Swap nuts, try different spices, or drizzle with chocolate for your unique twist. Pair them with a scoop of vegan ice cream for the ultimate treat!

Apple Blondies with Caramel Ingredients

• Discover the components for delectable vegan treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth!

For the Cinnamon Apples

Medium Apples – 2, peeled and chopped; these add natural sweetness and texture, with an option to cook them for extra softness.
Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup – 1-2 tbsp, for the apples; this enhances sweetness and moisture.
Ground Cinnamon – ½ tsp for apples; it brings warmth and flavor.

For the Blondie Batter

Vegan Butter – 7/8 cup (200g) or melted coconut oil; it provides richness and moisture.
All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups (250g); essential for structure, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a 1:1 substitute.
Baking Powder – 1 ½ tsp; acts as a leavening agent for a light and fluffy texture.
Salt – ½ tsp; it balances out the sweetness beautifully.
Ground Nutmeg (optional) – ¼ tsp; adds an extra hint of spiciness.
Brown Sugar – 1 ¼ cups (250g); this is the main sweetener that lends depth of flavor.
Apple Sauce – ½ cup (120g), unsweetened; this gives moisture, with an alternative of 2 regular eggs or 1 mashed banana for non-vegans.
Vanilla Extract – 1 ½ tsp; it enhances the overall flavor profile.

Optional Toppings

Chopped Walnuts – for a delightful crunch; feel free to omit for nut-free blondies.
Caramel Sauce – to drizzle on top for a rich finish; it makes these apple blondies with caramel irresistibly delicious!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Blondies with Caramel

Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling and chopping 2 medium apples into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, toss the chopped apples with 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar or maple syrup and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. For added softness, you may cook the apples in a pot over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften, making them even more delectable in your apple blondies with caramel.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C). While it heats, prepare an 11×7-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal of your blondies later. This setup is essential for the perfect base as you bake these delicious apple blondies with caramel sauce.

Step 3: Melt Butter
In a medium pot, melt 7/8 cup of vegan butter or coconut oil over medium heat until completely liquefied. Make sure not to let it burn; you want it just melted. Once ready, remove it from heat and set it aside to cool slightly while you assemble your dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg (if using). Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended, creating a delightful foundation for your apple blondies with caramel.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the melted vegan butter, ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce, and 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract to the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to over-mix. Next, fold in your prepared apples until evenly distributed, ensuring every bite of the blondies will be filled with sweet apple goodness.

Step 6: Transfer Batter
Pour the thick batter into your prepared baking pan. Using a spatula, spread the batter evenly, pressing it down gently to fill the corners. This step is crucial for even baking, ensuring your apple blondies with caramel turn out soft and chewy, just as intended.

Step 7: Bake
Place your prepared pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—the toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. The blondies should be golden brown on top, signaling they’re ready to come out.

Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After about 20-30 minutes, lift them out using the parchment paper. If desired, top with chopped walnuts and drizzle with caramel sauce before slicing into squares. Enjoy your beautifully crafted apple blondies with caramel!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Vegan Apple Blondies with Caramel are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the apple mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, ensuring the apples absorb all that delicious cinnamon and sweetness. Additionally, you can make the batter up to 3 days in advance—just mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, and keep them in airtight containers until you’re ready to combine them. When it’s time to bake, simply assemble everything, and bake for about 35 minutes as directed. These blondies will be just as delightful, providing you with a stress-free dessert for gatherings or family meals!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Blondies with Caramel

Room Temperature: Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to enjoy the best chewy texture of your apple blondies with caramel.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—this helps maintain their delicious flavors and moistness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies for up to 3 months in an airtight container, adding parchment paper between layers for easy access to individual pieces.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply place your blondies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Apple Blondies with Caramel Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious blondies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts altogether for a delightful nut-free treat that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for school lunches or potlucks!
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend at a 1:1 ratio, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to indulge.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice in place of cinnamon for a seasonal twist that embraces the cozy vibes of fall.
Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of caramel sauce, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled blondies for an indulgent chocolatey treat.
Sautéed Apples: Cook the apples in a little coconut oil before mixing them in for an enhanced flavor and tenderness that adds a gourmet touch.
Reduced Sugar: Substitute a portion of the brown sugar with unsweetened applesauce to reduce the sweetness without sacrificing moisture.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to introduce a surprising heat element that elevates the flavor profile.
Tropical Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut or diced pineapple to infuse a taste of the tropics, creating a truly unique dessert experience.

For a refined dessert experience, try enjoying your blondies warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream, alongside a slice of Caramelized Banana Cheesecake to impress your guests at gatherings!

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Vegan Apple Blondies with Caramel Sauce

The sweet aroma of caramel and cinnamon lingers in the air, inviting you to create a full meal around these delectable blondies.

Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm blondies, enhancing their flavors perfectly.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream drizzled on top adds a refreshing, tropical flair that complements the caramel beautifully.
Roasted Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, creating a lovely balance with the soft texture of the blondies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brightens the plate and adds a fresh, juicy element that pairs seamlessly with the sweet blondies.
Warm Spiced Chai: The fragrant spices of chai tea, with its hint of cinnamon, create an inviting drink that enhances the cozy vibe of your dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a rich drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the blondies adds an indulgent touch that elevates the dessert experience.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of warm maple syrup brings additional sweetness and a lovely maple flavor that pairs well with the apple notes in the blondies.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on the blondies right before serving creates an aromatic touch that enhances their cinnamon flavor.

Expert Tips for Apple Blondies with Caramel

Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure proper baking temperature; this helps prevent overbaking and guarantees that your apple blondies with caramel come out perfectly chewy.
Soften Apples: For best texture, consider sautéing your apples briefly before mixing them into the batter. This enhances their flavor and softness in each bite.
Mixing Technique: Mix the dry and wet ingredients just until combined; over-mixing can lead to denser blondies, losing that lovely chewy texture.
Check for Doneness: The toothpick test is your best friend—remove the blondies when a few moist crumbs cling to the toothpick for the ideal gooey center.
Storage Tips: Allow the blondies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Apple Blondies with Caramel Recipe FAQs

How can I select the best apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing apples, look for firm, sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, which hold up well in baking. Avoid apples with dark spots or soft spots, as they may be overripe.

What is the best method for storing leftover blondies?
To keep your apple blondies with caramel fresh, store them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their lifespan, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze these apple blondies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first let the blondies cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking. They should stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge or microwave for a few seconds.

What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If your blondies come out dry, it’s likely they were overbaked. Be sure to check them at the 30-minute mark, as ovens can vary. If you want them to stay soft, you can also try adding an extra tablespoon of applesauce next time for more moisture.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is nut-free if you omit the walnuts. However, be mindful of potential allergies to gluten if using all-purpose flour. You can easily substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—just double-check the label for any unwanted allergens.

Can I substitute ingredients if I want to make these blondies even healthier?
Absolutely! You can replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or reduce the amount of sweetener for a less sugary treat. Additionally, using unsweetened apple sauce instead of oil can cut down on unnecessary fats. I often experiment with my recipes, and tweaking sweeteners can lead to delightful results that still satisfy your cravings!