Discover the ultimate fall dessert: Super Easy Gluten-Free Apple Pie Blondies. Imagine a perfectly soft, rich blonde brownie base, generously crowned with tender, spiced cinnamon apples, and finished with a dreamy maple vanilla glaze. This recipe offers all the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie in a convenient, easy-to-make bar form, ensuring a delightful treat for everyone, especially those with gluten and dairy sensitivities. Prepare to bake your new favorite autumn staple!
Embracing the Flavors of Fall with Apple Recipes
Even if the weather in North Florida still feels like summer, the moment September arrives, my kitchen transforms into an autumn wonderland, filled with the comforting aromas of cinnamon, spice, and, of course, apples! Apples are truly the star of fall baking, bringing a versatile sweetness and delightful texture to both sweet and savory dishes. From a classic Apple Crisp to fun Cinnamon Apple Fries, their adaptability is simply unmatched.
This year, I wanted to create something truly special – a dessert that marries the best elements of two beloved treats. My husband, a self-proclaimed “cake versus pie” enthusiast, often prefers the cakey goodness of brownies and blondies over traditional pies. So, I set out to craft a recipe that combines the rich, spiced apple filling of a pie with the soft, chewy texture of a perfect blondie. The result? These incredible Gluten-Free Apple Pie Blondies! They deliver that irresistible apple pie essence nestled within a sweet, cake-like blondie, offering a truly satisfying experience for every palate.
Crafting Perfect Gluten-Free Apple Pie Blondies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these apple pie blondies is a straightforward process, designed for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping dessert that’s both gluten-free and incredibly delicious.
Essential Baking Tips for Flawless Blondies
- Prepare Your Pan Properly: Always line your 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper, extending the paper up the sides. Then, lightly coat the bottom and sides with gluten-free non-stick cooking spray or butter. This simple trick makes removing the baked blondies an absolute breeze. You can simply lift the entire batch out using the parchment paper, place them on a cutting board, and slice them into perfect squares.
- Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: For optimal mixing and a smooth batter, ensure all cold ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. Cold ingredients tend not to emulsify as effectively with warmer ones, which can lead to a less uniform texture in your blondies.
The Art of the Apple Filling
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your 8×8 square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly coating it with gluten-free non-stick spray or butter.
- Peel, core, and dice your apples into small, uniform pieces. Using an apple slicer can make this task quick and easy. Small pieces ensure the apples cook evenly and spread beautifully over the blondie batter.
- In a small saucepan, combine butter, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter and sugar have melted and coated the apples thoroughly.
- Allow the apple mixture to come to a gentle boil for a few minutes. Continue to cook until the apples become tender but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Crafting the Perfect Blondie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to the blondies’ soft texture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the pure vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients: gluten-free all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, and xanthan gum (remember to omit xanthan gum if your chosen flour blend already contains it). Mix on low speed until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a slightly sticky consistency is normal and expected for blondies.
Assembly, Baking, and Glazing
- Pour the blondie batter into your prepared parchment-lined baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Carefully spoon the cooled apple filling over the blondie batter, gently spreading it to cover the surface in an even layer.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on your blondies. They are ready when the edges begin to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least one hour before applying the glaze. This cooling period is crucial; if the blondies are too hot, the glaze will simply melt and run off.
- While the blondies are cooling, prepare the vanilla maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and drizzly.
- Once the blondies are sufficiently cooled (they can still be slightly warm), generously drizzle the vanilla maple glaze over the top.
- Carefully lift the blondies out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into 9 large, uniform slices.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade Gluten-Free Apple Pie Blondies! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Many, including myself, find they taste even better when chilled!
Understanding Gluten-Free Flour Blends
When it comes to gluten-free baking, the type of flour you use makes a significant difference. I personally find Pillsbury gluten-free flour to be an excellent choice for consistent results in recipes like these blondies. However, it’s important to remember that not all gluten-free flour blends are created equal. Different brands may contain varying ratios of rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, and other ingredients, which can impact the texture and absorption in your baking.
For recipes that don’t specify, a good all-purpose gluten-free flour blend typically works well. If your chosen blend doesn’t already contain xanthan gum, adding the suggested amount in this recipe is crucial. Xanthan gum acts as a binder, mimicking the elasticity that gluten provides, and helps prevent your baked goods from crumbling. Experiment with different blends to find your favorite, but always be prepared for slight adjustments in liquid or baking time.
Effortless Dairy-Free Adaptations
This delicious Apple Pie Blondies recipe is incredibly adaptable for those following a dairy-free diet. In my household, dairy-free living is a norm for my husband, youngest son, and myself, so I’ve ensured this recipe tastes just as fantastic with dairy-free alternatives. You truly won’t miss the dairy!
For the butter component in both the apple filling and the blondie batter, I highly recommend using a high-quality dairy-free butter substitute. Brands like Earth Balance or Smart Balance offer excellent options that perform beautifully in baking, providing the richness and moisture needed without the dairy. Simply swap them in a 1:1 ratio for regular butter. This easy substitution ensures that everyone can enjoy these comforting fall treats without compromising on flavor or texture.
Choosing the Best Apples for Your Blondies
The beauty of Apple Pie Blondies lies in the versatility of apples you can use. While I often bake with Red Delicious, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith apples, nearly any apple variety will perform wonderfully in this recipe. Each type offers a slightly different flavor profile and texture once baked. For a sweeter blondie, opt for apples like Honeycrisp or Gala. If you prefer a tart counterpoint to the sweet blondie, Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. A mix of sweet and tart apples can also create a wonderfully complex flavor dimension.
The combination of a quick-to-prepare apple pie filling and a simple blondie batter makes this recipe a go-to for busy days. The vanilla maple glaze is the perfect finishing touch, its subtle sweetness and warmth complementing the cinnamon apples and rich blondie base. You get all the cherished flavors of a homemade apple pie, reimagined into a soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible blondie bar.
Explore More Gluten-Free Apple Delights!
If you’re a fan of these Apple Pie Blondies and looking for more gluten-free ways to enjoy fall’s favorite fruit, check out these other fantastic recipes:
- Baked Apple Cinnamon Donuts (Gluten-Free) – Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack!
- Gluten-Free Apple Dapple Cake – A moist and flavorful cake packed with apple goodness.
- Gluten-Free Easy Apple Cinnamon Muffins {Dairy-Free Option} – Simple, comforting muffins ideal for any time of day.
Apple Pie Blondies {Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Option}
Audrey from Mama Knows Gluten Free
9
servings
10 mins
30 mins
1 hr
40 mins
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Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups diced apples (3 apples), peeled
- 1 tablespoon butter, (dairy-free: Smart Balance butter)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Blondie
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for dairy-free use Smart Balance butter)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour , (I like Pillsbury gluten-free flour. Not all gluten-free flours are created equal. You may experience different baking results depending on the gluten-free flour blend you choose.)
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum, (leave out if your flour blend already has it)
- 1 teaspoon gluten-free baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper, extending the paper over the sides, then coat the bottom and sides with gluten-free non-stick cooking spray or butter.
-
Peel, core, and dice apples into small pieces. An apple slicer can be helpful here.
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In a small pan, combine butter, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until the butter and sugar melt and fully coat the apples. Bring to a slight boil for a few minutes until apples are soft, then remove from heat.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add eggs and pure vanilla extract, beating with your mixer until ingredients are fully combined.
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Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, xanthan gum (omit if your flour blend already contains it), and gluten-free flour. Mix until ingredients are just combined. The blondie batter will be sticky.
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Pour the blondie batter into the parchment-lined pan and spread evenly.
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Pour the apple filling on top of the blondie batter and spread to cover evenly.
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Bake for 35-45 minutes. Watch your blondies carefully, as oven temperatures can vary. The sides will begin to pull away from the pan, and they will turn golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
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Allow the blondies to cool for at least one hour before adding the glaze. If too hot, the glaze will melt.
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In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract for the glaze. Whisk until smooth.
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Drizzle the glaze generously on top of the cooled (or still slightly warm) apple pie blondies.
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Carefully remove the blondies from the pan by lifting them with the parchment paper. Cut into 9 large slices. Enjoy!
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Store in an airtight container and refrigerate. They are often best enjoyed cold!
Notes
Pro Tips:
- Lining the baking pan with parchment paper and greasing it thoroughly ensures easy removal of the blondies. Simply lift them out, place on a cutting board, and slice.
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better-incorporated mixture.
Apple Varieties: Red Delicious, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith apples all work beautifully in this recipe, but feel free to use your favorite type.
For easy apple preparation, I recommend using an apple slicer.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I actually find them most delicious when served cold!
Dairy-Free Option: This recipe can be made dairy-free using Smart Balance butter or other similar dairy-free butter substitutes.
Mama says, “Always check your labels!”
Nutrition
Calories: 354kcal
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 66mg
Sodium: 165mg
Potassium: 127mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 41g
Vitamin A: 420IU
Vitamin C: 1.2mg
Calcium: 72mg
Iron: 1.1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Dessert
American