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Spiced Gingerbread Almond Flour Blondies with Maple Drizzle – Easy Gluten-Free & Low Sugar Recipe
These easy gluten-free gingerbread blondies made with almond flour and warm spices are a cozy, low-sugar holiday snack. Topped with a simple maple syrup drizzle, they're perfect for beginner bakers seeking a quick and delicious festive treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour (finely ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (melted, optional)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy blondie removal.
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In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until fully combined.
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In a separate medium bowl, mix the applesauce, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
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Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until incorporated. The batter will be thick but spreadable.
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Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs (avoid overbaking).
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While baking, prepare the maple drizzle by mixing maple syrup and melted coconut oil (optional) for a glossy finish.
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Remove blondies from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes to set.
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Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the blondies out and place on a wire cooling rack.
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Drizzle the maple mixture evenly over warm blondies using a spoon or fork. Let the drizzle set for about 10 minutes before slicing into 12 squares.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Tips
Equipment Needed
Essential baking equipment for making these gluten-free gingerbread almond flour blondies: 8x8 inch Baking Pan: Ensures even baking and optimal blondie shape; line with parchment paper for easy removal. Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup. Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for dry ingredients, another medium bowl for wet ingredients.
Ingredient Prep Notes
Almond Flour: Use finely ground almond flour for moist, tender blondies. For nut allergies, consider oat or gluten-free all-purpose flours but expect slight texture differences. Spices: Balanced combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves provides traditional gingerbread warmth.
Oven Note
To bake perfect gluten-free spiced gingerbread almond flour blondies, keep these oven tips in mind: Fully Preheat Oven: Ensure oven is at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) before baking to promote even cooking and texture. Center Rack Placement: Position baking pan on middle rack for balanced heat and uniform browning. Confirm Temperature: Use an oven thermometer if possible to verify oven accuracy as temperatures vary.
Easy Upgrade Ideas
Easy Customizations for Spiced Gluten-Free Blondies: Add Mix-Ins: Incorporate 1/3 cup dairy-free chocolate chips, toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts, or dried cranberries to enhance flavor and texture. Increase Spices: Boost warmth by adding extra cinnamon or 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice for a richer gingerbread aroma. Nut-Free Flour Replacement: Use oat or gluten-free all-purpose flour for nut-free variations without compromising moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Spiced Gingerbread Almond Flour Blondies with Maple Drizzle – Easy Gluten-Free & Low Sugar Recipe ahead?
- Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
- How do I know when it is done?
- Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
- Can I change the flavor?
- Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
- What should beginners watch most closely?
- Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.
Ingredient Replacements
- almond flour (finely ground): Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
- baking soda: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
- ground cinnamon: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
- ground ginger: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
- ground nutmeg: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
Storage and Reheating
Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.
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