Save A festive crowd-pleasing platter showcasing chewy apple blondies crisp apples luscious caramel and an assortment of sweet and savory accompaniments is perfect for autumn gatherings or dessert boards.
I was inspired to bring together my favorite apple blondie recipe and the interactive charm of a charcuterie board. Everyone at our last fall get-together loved choosing their favorite dips and toppings.
Ingredients
- Apple Blondies: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter melted 1 1/2 cups (300 g) light brown sugar packed 2 large eggs 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1 1/2 cups (200 g) peeled diced apples (such as Granny Smith)
- Caramel Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
- Fruits: 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith) sliced 1 pear sliced (optional) 1 cup (120 g) seedless grapes
- Savory/Sweet Accompaniments: 1/2 cup (60 g) roasted salted pecans 1/2 cup (60 g) candied walnuts 1/2 cup (60 g) mini pretzels 1/2 cup (90 g) white chocolate chips 1/2 cup (90 g) milk or dark chocolate chips 1/2 cup (60 g) dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make blondie batter:
- In a large bowl whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla whisk until combined.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk flour baking powder salt cinnamon and nutmeg. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Add apples:
- Gently fold in diced apples. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan.
- Bake and cool:
- Bake 22–25 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely in the pan then lift out and cut into 2-inch squares.
- Assemble the board:
- Arrange apple blondies on a large board or platter. Fill small bowls with caramel sauce and chocolate chips.
- Arrange accompaniments:
- Artfully arrange sliced apples pears grapes nuts pretzels dried cranberries and the filled bowls around the blondies.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately encouraging guests to dip apple slices and blondies in caramel.
Save My children love helping lay out each item and always sneak extra apple slices to dip in caramel. It's become a sweet way to celebrate crisp autumn weekends together.
Required Tools
9x13-inch baking pan parchment paper mixing bowls whisk and spatula sharp knife serving board or large platter small bowls for sauces and snacks
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) eggs dairy tree nuts (pecans walnuts) and soy (possible in chocolate). Consider nut-free and gluten-free substitutions for guests with sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430 Total Fat: 19 g Carbohydrates: 62 g Protein: 4 g (approximate per serving 1/10 of board)
Save This board brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. Enjoy the mix of soft blondies crisp fruit and creamy caramel for an irresistible seasonal treat.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do you keep apple slices from browning?
Dip sliced apples in diluted lemon juice before arranging them on the board for freshness.
- → Can I customize the accompaniments?
Absolutely! Swap in different nuts, chocolate types, or seasonal fruits to suit your preferences.
- → How do I serve this dessert board?
Arrange blondies and accompaniments on a platter and encourage guests to dip into caramel and sauces.
- → What drinks pair well with this board?
Sparkling cider or light dessert wines complement the flavors and add a festive touch to gatherings.
- → Are there allergen-free options?
Consider nut-free and gluten-free substitutions; verify packaged ingredients for allergens before serving.
- → Can blondies be made ahead?
You can bake blondies in advance and slice before assembling the board for easy entertaining.