Spiced Apple Skillet Blondies

Spiced Apple Blondies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Skillet: Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.
3. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the Crisco® Butter Flavor All-Vegetable Shortening and milk. Microwave in 30-second increments until the shortening is melted.
4. Add the brown sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and apple butter.
5. Gently fold the chopped Honeycrisp apples into the wet mixture.
6. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
7. Combine and Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
8. Bake in Skillet: Pour the batter into the prepared cast iron skillet and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are golden and crisp.
9. Cool in Skillet: Allow the blondies to cool in the skillet for 10 minutes before serving.

Maple Apple Topping:

1. Cook the Apples: In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the chopped Honeycrisp apple with cinnamon, brown sugar, and maple syrup until the apples are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Spoon the warm apple topping over the blondies while still in the skillet.
3. Optional: Serve with a scoop of ice cream and drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent dessert.