Apple Cinnamon Blondie Bites

(vegan, gluten-free)

I admit that I am on a bit of a brownie and blondie tear these days, but the basic recipe for vegan, gluten-free brownie bites has brought out the experimental scientist in me. This latest recipe bursts with flavors of apple and cinnamon, and balances it with the warm butterscotch flavors of a good blondie.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• ½ cup chopped dates
• ½ cup plant milk (preferably almond or soy)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup applesauce
• 4 tablespoons vegan butter, melted and cooled
• 7 ounces (1 cup) brown sugar
• 3½ ounces (½ cup) granulated white sugar
• 8 ounces (1¾ cup) gluten-free all-purpose baking flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon xanthan gum
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease mini muffin pan(s) to make 30 individual brownie bites.
2. Soak the chopped dates and flaxseed in warm plant milk for 10-20 minutes. Blend flaxseed, dates, and plant milk in blender or food processor until mostly smooth. Add vanilla and melted butter and blend until smooth.
3. In separate mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix with electric mixer about 5 minutes until thoroughly combined.
5. Scoop 1 ½ tablespoons batter into each muffin well.
6. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until just barely firm.
7. Let cool completely in pan before removing from mini muffin pan. Loosen bites by running a knife around the inside of each bite.

Makes about 30 blondie bites.