3-Layer Apple Pie Blondies Recipe

These 3-Layer Apple Pie Blondies are a dreamy fusion of gooey, spiced, and crisp textures in every bite. A buttery blondie base is topped with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and finished with a crumbly streusel layer.

The warm aroma of baked apples and brown sugar will fill your kitchen, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste. Ready in just over an hour, this dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat any day of the week.

Each layer brings its own magic—chewy blondies, soft caramelized apples, and a golden, crunchy topping. The blend of sweet and spiced flavors feels like a hug in dessert form.

Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature, these blondies are sure to become a favorite. Simple to prepare yet impressive, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients for 3-Layer Apple Pie Blondies

• For the Streusel Topping:
  • ¾ cup (3¾ oz/105 g) all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup (2 oz/57 g) dark brown sugar
  • ½ cup (1½ oz/43 g) quick-cooking oats
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ cup (4 oz/115 g) butter, cold and diced
  • ½ cup (2½ oz/71 g) pecans, chopped (substitute walnuts if preferred)
• For the Apple Layer:
  • 3 large (16 oz/450 g) Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped into 1-inch (3 cm) dice
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon (½ oz/14 g) butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
• For the Blondie Base:
  • 1⅔ cup (10 oz/285 g) dark brown sugar
  • ¾ cup (6 oz/170 g) butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups (7½ oz/213 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter and line a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Make the Streusel Topping:
   1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, oats, salt, and cinnamon.
   2. Rub in the cold butter with your fingers (or use a pastry blender) until the mixture is crumbly.
   3. Toss in the pecans, then refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Make the Apple Layer:
   1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples with the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and lemon juice. Set aside.
4. Make the Blondie Base:
   1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and melted butter.
   2. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
   3. In a small bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt, then stir into the brown sugar mixture until just combined.
5. Assemble the Blondies:
   1. Spread the blondie base evenly into the prepared pan.
   2. Top with the apple mixture, spreading it out evenly.
   3. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples.
6. Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is nicely browned.
7. Cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
8. Serve with vanilla ice cream and apple cider caramel sauce for an extra treat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas

Take your 3-Layer Apple Pie Blondies to the next level with a drizzle of Apple Cider Caramel Sauce or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. For a tangy twist, try a dollop of whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon. These additions enhance the flavors and make each bite even more indulgent.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These blondies are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. This will bring back that just-baked texture and aroma.

Recipe Variations to Try

Feel free to mix it up! Swap the pecans in the streusel for walnuts or almonds, or use a mix of apple varieties like Honeycrisp and Fuji for a sweeter flavor.

For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts and add a handful of rolled oats instead. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the apple layer for extra warmth.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

To save time, prepare the streusel topping and apple layer the night before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and pop it in the oven. Using pre-chopped apples or a food processor to dice them can also speed up prep time without sacrificing quality.

Equipment Guidance for Success

A 9×13-inch baking dish is essential for this recipe, and lining it with parchment paper ensures easy removal and cleanup. A pastry blender or fork works well for mixing the streusel, but your fingers are just as effective. For even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated before you start.