Apple Brownies Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy treat that feels like a warm hug, these Apple Brownies are about to become your new favorite comfort dessert. Combining the rich, fudgy texture of traditional brownies with juicy apple chunks and a hint of cinnamon, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and tart freshness. Every bite bursts with delightful flavors and a tender crumb that’s both satisfying and unique. These Apple Brownies are easy to make but truly special enough to impress anyone you share them with.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Apple Brownies comes down to simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one has a purpose, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, or that lovely texture that makes these brownies sing.
- Butter, salted (1/2 cup, 112 g): Brings richness and helps create the tender crumb that makes these brownies so comforting.
- Sugar (1 cup, 200 g): Sweetens the batter perfectly, balancing the tartness of the apples with a caramelized depth once baked.
- Egg (1): Acts as the binding agent, giving structure while keeping the brownies moist.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup, 133 g): Provides the sturdy framework, holding everything together without being heavy.
- Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Gives a slight lift to keep the brownies from being too dense.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, bringing out the sweetness and the nuttiness of the pecans.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Adds a warm spice note that perfectly complements the apples.
- Chopped apple pieces (1 cup, 100 g): Fresh, finely chopped apples add moisture, freshness, and a delightful chew.
- Toasted pecan pieces (1/2 cup, 53 g): Toasting intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
How to Make Apple Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s perfectly hot when your batter is ready. While the oven comes to temperature, toast the pecan pieces in a small pan until you can smell their nutty aroma, then set them aside to cool. This simple step elevates their flavor considerably.
Step 2: Chop the Apples
Peel, core, and chop your apples into small, roughly half-inch pieces. This size ensures each bite contains tender bits of apple that aren’t too mushy but still release delicious moisture throughout the brownies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream your room temperature salted butter with the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is the foundation of your batter—it introduces air, making the brownies tender and moist.
Step 4: Mix in the Egg
Add your egg to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing again until everything is well combined and smooth. The batter will already start smelling like a warm bakery at this point!
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until just combined. Avoid over-mixing here to keep your brownies nice and tender rather than tough.
Step 6: Add Apples and Pecans
Stir in the chopped apples and toasted pecans, mixing until distributed evenly. The batter will now be sticky and moist thanks to the juicy apples, which is exactly what you want.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into a buttered 8×8-inch baking dish (or line it with parchment for easy cleanup). Press it down gently for an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 to 45 minutes, checking around 35 minutes—the brownies should have a golden crust and spring back lightly when touched.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let your Apple Brownies cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps them set perfectly so they cut cleanly without crumbling.
How to Serve Apple Brownies
Garnishes
While these Apple Brownies shine on their own, a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an elegant touch. For a cozy vibe, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top takes it over the top deliciously.
Side Dishes
If you want to turn your Apple Brownies into a full dessert experience, serve them alongside warm spiced tea or fresh coffee. A side of whipped cream or crème fraîche balances the sweetness beautifully, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the Apple Brownies into bite-sized squares and presenting them on a wooden board with assorted nuts and apple slices for a rustic dessert spread. They also work wonderfully layered between soft sandwich cookies for an irresistible sweet snack sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Apple Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay moist and delicious for 2 to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or unexpected guests.
Freezing
You can freeze Apple Brownies by wrapping individual squares in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To enjoy warm Apple Brownies, simply pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. The warmth helps bring out the apple’s juicy flavor and revitalizes that tender texture, almost like they’re freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work great because they hold their shape and provide lovely tartness that balances the sweetness.
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Yes, feel free to swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Toasting the nuts before adding them will always boost their flavor no matter which you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the Apple Brownies are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown crust and a slightly firm surface. You can insert a toothpick near the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Can I add other fruits to these brownies?
Yes! Small chopped pears or dried cranberries complement the apples beautifully and add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about Apple Brownies that just makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting flavors of autumn any time of year. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Apple Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful Apple Brownies, a perfect twist on the classic brownie that combines the sweet, juicy texture of apples with the crunch of toasted pecans, enhanced by a warm touch of cinnamon. These brownies are easy to prepare, making them a delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all purpose flour (133 g)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, salted, room temperature (112 g)
- 1 cup sugar (200 g)
- 1 egg
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g)
- ½ cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature before you prepare the batter.
- Toast Pecans: In a small pan, toast the pecan pieces over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly browned, then set aside to cool completely. This enhances their flavor and crunchiness.
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks about 1/2 inch in size, ensuring they will cook evenly in the batter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process helps to create a tender texture in the brownies.
- Add Egg: Beat in the egg thoroughly until fully incorporated, which aids in binding the ingredients together.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the brownies tough.
- Combine Apples and Pecans: Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecan pieces carefully. The batter will become sticky and moist due to the apples’ natural moisture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Butter an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the pan evenly and press it down gently.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, depending on your oven. Check at around 35 minutes; the brownies should be golden brown across the crust and a toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This helps them set for easier cutting.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute salted butter with unsalted butter by adding a pinch more salt to the batter.
- Ensure apples are chopped uniformly for even baking and texture.
- These brownies are best enjoyed within 2 days, stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- To enhance the apple flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
- Check for doneness starting at 30 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: apple brownies, pecan brownies, cinnamon dessert, easy dessert recipe, fall dessert, baked apple treats
