Apple Brownies Recipe
If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of fall wrapped up in a single bite, then these Apple Brownies are destined to become your new favorite treat. Combining the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the sweet, tender crunch of fresh apples and toasted pecans, this recipe offers a delightful twist on a beloved dessert. Every mouthful is a cozy hug of cinnamon-spiced sweetness and nutty goodness that feels just right for chilly afternoons or anytime you crave something both fruity and indulgent. Trust me, once you try these Apple Brownies, you’ll want to keep the recipe close and share it with everyone you know!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays a vital role in bringing the Apple Brownies to life. From the creamy butter that gives richness to the flour and baking powder that help create the perfect crumb, every component matters in delivering those perfectly balanced flavors and textures.
- Butter (1/2 cup salted, room temperature): Provides a creamy, rich base that keeps the brownies moist and tender.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter while helping to achieve a nice, slightly crisp top crust.
- Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the brownie batter.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the foundation for the chewy, cakey texture we love in brownies.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): A gentle lift to keep the brownies from being too dense.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings that warm, spicy touch that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Apples (1 cup chopped, about 1/2 inch pieces): Adds juicy bursts of natural sweetness and moisture throughout.
- Toasted pecan pieces (1/2 cup): Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to complement the fruits and spices.
How to Make Apple Brownies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350℉ so it’s nicely heated by the time your batter is ready. This ensures even baking and that perfect golden crust we all look forward to.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
In a small pan, toast your pecan pieces over medium heat until they’re fragrant and lightly browned. This step intensifies their nutty flavor, which adds an incredible depth to your Apple Brownies. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
Step 3: Chop the Apples
Peel, core, and chop your apples into roughly half-inch chunks. The size is just right to keep juicy pieces throughout the brownies without overpowering the batter. Fresh apples bring that tender texture and subtle sweetness that elevate this recipe.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and sugar together until the mixture is soft and fluffy. This creamy base traps air and contributes to the tender crumb of our Apple Brownies.
Step 5: Add Egg and Mix
Next, beat in the egg until fully incorporated. This adds structure and moisture while helping the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a separate bowl, then gently fold them into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing here can lead to tough brownies, so keep it light and easy.
Step 7: Fold in Apples and Pecans
Now it’s time to add the chopped apples and the toasted pecans. Mix them evenly into the batter. Expect the batter to be wetter and slightly sticky—this moisture from the apples makes the brownies gorgeously soft inside.
Step 8: Bake
Pour your sticky batter into a buttered 8×8 inch baking dish or one lined with parchment paper. Press it gently and smooth the top. Bake for anywhere between 30 and 45 minutes until the top turns golden brown. Ovens vary, but around 35 minutes is a great estimate. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overbake—the goal is a tender center with a lovely crust.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares without falling apart.
How to Serve Apple Brownies
Garnishes
For a simple yet stunning finish, dust your Apple Brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce also makes a heavenly topping that enhances the warm-spiced flavors.
Side Dishes
Think of pairing the Apple Brownies with fresh whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for balance. For a festive touch, a cup of hot spiced cider or a warm mug of chai tea complements the cozy spices perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Apple Brownies alongside some sliced fresh apples and toasted pecans for added texture and color at the table. Or, for gatherings, cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange on a platter with sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for a rustic autumn vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Apple Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The apples help retain moisture, so they stay wonderfully soft and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies easily! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months and can be thawed overnight at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm your Apple Brownies in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300℉ for 5–7 minutes. Reheating gently brings back that freshly baked feel along with the delicious apple aroma.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for these brownies?
Absolutely! Crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully, but you can experiment with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp depending on your taste preference.
Are Apple Brownies gluten-free?
This classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing texture.
Can I replace pecans with other nuts?
Sure thing! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts are great alternatives and each brings a unique flavor that works well with the apples and cinnamon.
How do I know when my Apple Brownies are done baking?
Look for a golden brown crust on top and a slightly springy texture when you gently press the surface. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can these brownies be made vegan?
With a few swaps—like using vegan butter and a flax egg instead of the regular egg—you can definitely make these Apple Brownies vegan-friendly while keeping all the delightful flavors intact.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way fresh apples and warm spices come together in these Apple Brownies, creating a treat that feels both nostalgic and uniquely special. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe never fails to impress. So gather your ingredients, turn on your oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these deliciously cozy Apple Brownies. I promise, this one will quickly become a recipe you return to again and again.
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Apple Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful apple brownies that combine the classic rich taste of butter and sugar with fresh apple chunks and toasted pecans. This dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness, a hint of cinnamon spice, and a satisfying crunch, making it an ideal treat for any season.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, salted, room temperature (112 g)
- 1 cup sugar (200 g)
- 1 egg
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (133 g)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
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’s ready for baking the apple brownies.
- Toast Pecans: In a small pan, toast the pecan pieces over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside to cool, which enhances their nutty flavor.
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into approximately 1/2 inch pieces. Fresh apples add moisture and texture to the brownies.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature salted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a tender crumb.
- Add Egg: Beat in the egg until fully combined and the mixture remains fluffy, helping the brownie batter bind well.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to prevent overworking the batter.
- Incorporate Apples and Pecans: Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans, mixing well. The batter will be sticky and moist due to the apple juice.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour and press the batter evenly into a buttered or parchment-lined 8×8 baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean. This usually takes about 35 minutes.
- Cool Before Slicing: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes to set properly before slicing.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. These apple brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Ensure butter is at room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy mix.
- To keep the pecans fresh and crunchy, toast them just before adding.
- Baking times can vary depending on your oven; check starting at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- For a gluten-free variation, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- These brownies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: apple brownies, apple dessert, pecan brownies, cinnamon apple dessert, easy brownie recipe, baked apple treats
