Ingredients

1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) salted butter

1/2 cup apple butter

1 1/2 cups light brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled if desired, and chopped (about 2 cups)

3 tablespoons salted butter

3 tablespoons maple syrup

1/2 – 3/4 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for glaze)

1 pinch flaky sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the 3/4 cup butter, swirling or stirring often until browned and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the apple butter and 1 cup of brown sugar. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Whisk the eggs and vanilla into the browned butter mixture. Add the flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, mixing until just combined. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: In a bowl, toss the chopped apples with 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle the apples evenly over the batter.

Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until just set in the center. If there is liquid in the center, gently swirl it around and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 6: To make the glaze, melt the 3 tablespoons butter in a small pot over medium heat until lightly browned and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the maple syrup, powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of flaky sea salt until smooth.

Step 7: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled blondies. Let set for 5 minutes before cutting into bars. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use a tart apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for brightness and texture.

Swap apple butter with pumpkin butter for a seasonal twist.

For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples before baking.

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce powdered sugar or drizzle with pure maple syrup only.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any firm apple variety you like. Just be sure to chop them fairly small to ensure even baking.

What if I don’t have apple butter?

If you don’t have apple butter, you can substitute with an equal amount of applesauce, although the flavor and texture will be slightly different. A cinnamon or pumpkin butter can also work well for variation.