Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly balances the comforting warmth of fall flavors with an irresistible gooey texture, look no further than these Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies. Imagine the tender crumb of a blondie infused with soft, juicy apple pieces and pockets of luscious caramel sauce. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering a cozy mix of buttery sweetness and fruity freshness. These blondies are a celebration of everything we love about apple desserts but with an exciting twist that makes them stand out on any dessert table.

Why Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies is Worth Your Time

When it comes to baking, some recipes demand a lot of fuss and time, but Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies offer maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. They’re perfect for those moments when you want an indulgent treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The blend of caramel and apple inside a rich, buttery blondie base creates a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

Whether you’re baking for a casual family gathering or a special occasion, these blondies deliver crowd-pleasing results that taste like they took way more work than they actually did. Plus, their portable, bar-shaped form makes them perfect for sharing or packing in lunchboxes. If you love the idea of Deep Dish Apple Pie but want something quicker and easier to serve, these blondies are a dream come true.

What We’re Using

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted – Provides a rich, buttery base that keeps the blondies moist and tender.
• 2 cups brown sugar – Adds depth with its molasses notes and contributes to the gooey texture.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warm aromatic notes.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the blondie’s structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Gives a slight lift for a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and brings out flavors.
• 1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored) – Adds natural sweetness and moisture, along with a pleasant fruity bite.
• 1 cup caramel sauce – Creates luscious pockets of gooey, buttery caramel throughout the blondies.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• 9×13-inch baking pan – Ideal size for even baking and perfect blondie thickness.
• Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing.
• Whisk and spatula – For smooth batter mixing and folding in apples and caramel.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping the apples.
• Cooling rack – Allows blondies to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

Method: Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies

Step 1: Prepare the wet ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your 9×13-inch pan or lining it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This mixture will be rich and thick, setting the stage for your blondies’ moist texture.

Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and prevents clumps of flour in the batter.

Step 3: Bring it all together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as the flour is just incorporated to maintain a tender crumb. Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without breaking them down too much.

Step 4: Layer the batter and caramel

Pour half of the blondie batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over this layer, then carefully swirl it using a knife or skewer to create beautiful caramel ribbons. Add the remaining batter on top, spreading it gently to cover the caramel layer. Finally, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top and swirl again for that signature gooey effect.

Step 5: Bake and cool

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Allow the blondies to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to prevent the caramel from oozing out too much.

Fit It to Your Goals

• Looking to boost the fruity flavor? Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture for extra warmth.
• Want to add crunch? Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Prefer a less sweet caramel experience? Use a salted caramel sauce to balance richness.
• For a dairy-free twist, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free caramel sauce.

If You’re Curious

Apples and caramel are a classic combination that works brilliantly in many desserts. If you enjoy this flavor pairing, you might want to explore similar recipes like the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, which also celebrates the spice and sweetness of apple desserts in a unique way. For those who adore spiced desserts, the Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese offers a moist, flavorful option that’s a delightful companion to any apple treat.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies keep well for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For best texture, consume within 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but be sure to bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving to enjoy the gooey caramel at its best. These blondies freeze beautifully too—wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.

FAQ

Can I use any type of apple for these blondies?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples add a nice tart contrast, while Fuji or Honeycrisp provide more sweetness. Just be sure to peel and core them before dicing to keep the texture balanced.

Is it okay to substitute the caramel sauce with caramel bits or chunks?

You can try using caramel bits, but they won’t create the same gooey pockets as sauce. If you use bits, consider melting them slightly before folding them into the batter to distribute the caramel flavor more evenly.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure. Baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the blondies as they bake.

What’s the best way to cut these blondies without making a mess?

Chill the blondies for at least an hour before cutting to allow the caramel to set. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat squares.

More from the Kitchen

• Deep Dish Apple Pie – A classic fall favorite with a flaky crust and tender apples.
• Apple Cider Doughnut Cake – A spiced cake that captures the essence of cider donuts.
• Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese – Moist and flavorful, topped with tangy cream cheese frosting.

The Takeaway

Gooey Caramel Apple Blondies are a delightful way to enjoy the cozy flavors of apples and caramel in a simple, satisfying bar. Their rich buttery base combined with juicy apple pieces and decadent caramel ribbons make them a standout treat for any season. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a sweet snack, these blondies deliver on flavor and texture without requiring complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and you may find yourself reaching for it again and again whenever you want a little taste of sweet comfort.

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