Apple Cinnamon Blondies (Gluten Free)

When I'm craving a cozy, fall-focused bake, these Apple Cinnamon Blondies are, honestly, pure perfection. They are brimming with the magical flavor of fresh apples and cinnamon, lathered in a maple glaze or frosting that just makes them even more special. These bars come out soft but also dense enough and are basically a cross between a bar and a cake. They are packed with autumn flavors that make every bite taste like apple-picking season.

I love that they are a simple, one bowl recipe, made with pantry staples and perfect for potluck tables or holiday gatherings. Icy mornings, warm ovens and these blondies; this is fall baking at its most delicious. If you try this Apple Cinnamon Blondies recipe and love it, try my Caramel Apple Bark next! You might also really like these Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts and my Air Fryer Apples which go with loads of fall desserts. Here's a roundup of all my favorite Gluten Free Fall Desserts.

What Is a Blondie?

A blondie is a soft, dense bar dessert similar to a brownie but flavored with vanilla and sugar instead of cocoa.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I'm kind of obsessed with the soft, dense texture of these Apple Cinnamon Blondies with their chewy edges and tender apple pieces.

They are bursting with fall flavors like apple, cinnamon and maple. SO GOOD you guys!

This recipe is super accessible and just not a hassle. It's a one bowl method and the pantry staples keep it simple and fuss-free.

They are the perfect cross between a cake and a bar. This makes them a great afternoon pick me up but also means you can have them for dessert.

I love a magical bake like this that feels cozy when the weather cools.

I find these really easy to dress up with a maple glaze or creamy frosting.

If you're looking for something sweet to make and take to a potluck or fall party, definitely give these a go!

Equipment Needed

To make these Apple Cinnamon Blondies, I used a bowl, an 8x8 pan and some parchment paper. That's it!

Ingredients Needed

Glutenfree all-purpose flour: Use your favorite brand of GF flour. I love Bob's Red Mill Paleo Flour!

Baking soda and baking powder: These help the Apple Cinnamon Blondies rise slightly and gives a little lift. Just make sure to check your batches are fresh.

Spices: I used cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in my recipe. You can also use allspice instead of ginger.

Coconut sugar: I love the caramel-like richness from baking with coconut sugar. It's also how the blondies come out soft and moist.

Neutral oil (avocado or olive): Using oil is another reason the Apple Cinnamon Blondies are tender and moist.

Eggs: Help bind the batter and add richness. I prefer baking with room temperature eggs because they just mix in more easily.

Vanilla extract: I feel like this rounds out flavors with warm, sweet flavors.

Apples: Fresh diced apples add juicy bursts of fall flavor. You can use any apples you like.

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Round up your ingredients to make these Apple Cinnamon Blondies and preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 pan with parchment so the blondies lift out easily.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and any other spices until evenly combined.

Step 3: Add the coconut sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla, stirring until the batter is smooth and thick.

Step 4: Dice the apples and pan-fry them in a lightly oiled pan with a sprinkle of cinnamon until they soften and develop a little color.

Step 5: Fold the warm apples into the batter, spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Step 6: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before drizzling with icing, my maple glaze or frosting and slicing.

Storage

Refrigerate these Apple Cinnamon Blondies for up to 5 days. I find they freeze really well, too. To freeze them, tightly wrap them and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Variations

Try making a pear version: Swap the apples for pears for a softer, sweeter version.

Chocolate and nuts: Add white chocolate chips, walnuts or pecans for extra texture.

Add dried fruit: Add dried fruit like cranberries, raisins or chopped dates for chewy pops of sweetness.

Make them nutty: Fold in chopped pecans, walnuts or almonds for a nutty crunch.

Extra rich and indulgent: Stir in white chocolate chips, some caramel bits or even butterscotch chips.

Hidden veggies: I sometimes add in shredded carrot or zucchini as an easy way to include veggies and fiber. They also keep the blondies super moist.

Drizzle the Apple Cinnamon Blondies with salted caramel sauce!

More rustic: Sometimes I'll fold in some oats. This just gives the apple blondies a chunkier texture.

More texture: Mix in oats for a heartier, more rustic texture.

How To Serve 

Check out these ideas for enjoying these Apple Cinnamon Blondies:

• Slice the Apple Cinnamon Blondies into squares and have them as an easy treat with coffee.
• Pair with Air Fryer Apples and vanilla ice cream for a yummy dessert.
• Take them to a fall party.
• As a partner to coffee with Dairy Free Pumpkin Spice Creamer.

Recipe FAQ

What are the best apples to use for baking?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith or Pink Lady hold their shape best.

Can I use store bought icing or frosting?

Yes, store-bought glaze or frosting works perfectly when you're short on time.

Can I make these blondies ahead of time?

Absolutely. Bake and cool them, then store tightly wrapped. Add glaze or frosting just before serving.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is optional. For a softer bite, peel them. For more texture, I'll leave the skins on.

What other mix-ins could I add to these blondies?

Try chopped nuts, dried cranberries or white chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Related Recipes

Be sure to try these fun fall apple ideas next:

Apple Samoas

Gluten Free Apple Cake

Apple Nachos

Gluten Free Apple Fritters

Apple Crisp Bars

If you make these Apple Cinnamon Blondies and love them, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.