Delectable Apple Cider Blondies Recipe

Savour a delightful twist on a classic with these Apple Cider Blondies! Perfect for autumn, these chewy bars blend buttery richness with the warm spices of apple pie and quick oats — a wonderful way to utilize leftover apple cider.

What Are Blondies?

Blondies share a delicious kinship with brownies, but instead of chocolate, they feature a rich, buttery base highlighted by vanilla and brown sugar. They’re sweet, moist, and can be enhanced with various add-ins such as nuts or spices. The addition of apple cider in these blondies makes them an unforgettable seasonal treat.

How to Make Apple Cider Blondies

Get ready for a simple, one-bowl recipe that transforms leftover apple cider into scrumptious blondies. Great for after-school snacks or gathering treats, you’ll love how quickly they come together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Blondies:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 stick butter (½ cup), cut into chunks
• ½ cup quick oats
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt

For the Topping:

• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Prep and Reduce the Cider:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. In a saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, until it reduces to ½ cup.
2. Combine Butter and Cider:
   Add the butter chunks into the hot cider, allowing them to melt. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   In a bowl, add the brown sugar to the butter-cider mixture and whisk until combined. Then, add the egg and whisk until smooth. Stir in the vanilla, cinnamon, apple pie spice, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Gently fold in the oats and flour until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
5. Bake the Blondies:
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
6. Cool and Top the Blondies:
   After baking, remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Brush the top of the blondies with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over them.
7. Cut and Store:
   Once fully cooled, slice the blondies into 16 squares. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Perfect Use for Leftover Apple Cider and Oats

This recipe doubles as a fantastic way to use leftover apple cider! The reduced cider infuses the blondies with deep apple flavor, complemented by the subtle texture of oats. It’s a win-win for reducing waste while whipping up a tasty treat.

Apple Cider Blondies Recipe FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Absolutely! You can substitute old-fashioned oats for a chewier texture; just avoid instant oats, as they can become mushy.

What if I don’t have apple pie spice?
You can create your own mix: combine ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, and a hint of ground cloves for similar warmth and flavor.

Can I freeze apple cider blondies?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap each square in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

These Apple Cider Blondies are a lovely addition to any autumn gathering, offering a warm embrace of seasonal flavors in every bite. Enjoy them with a cup of your favorite hot beverage for an unforgettable treat!