Apple Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon, these Apple Brownies are just what you need! They are wonderfully moist, filled with sweet chunks of apple and crunchy pecans. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making them perfect for cozy evenings at home or as a sweet ending to family gatherings. I love how easy they are to make, which means you can whip them up on busy weeknights or impress your friends at a potluck. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious Apple Brownies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the chewy texture and sweet flavor. It’s a dessert everyone can enjoy!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or share them with friends.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with apples and nuts, these brownies offer a comforting treat without any guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Apple Brownies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. These goodies come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s both satisfying and delicious.

For the Brownie Base

• 1/2 cup butter, salted, room temp (112 g)
• 1 cup sugar (200 g)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup all purpose flour (133 g)
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon

For the Add-Ins

• 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g)
• ½ cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g)

Variations

One of the best things about these Apple Brownies is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a decadent twist, fold in some chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
• Experiment with Nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer something different.
• Try Different Apples: Use tart Granny Smith apples for a tangy contrast or sweet Fuji apples for extra sweetness.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary preferences.

How to Make Apple Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your brownies bake evenly as soon as they hit the oven.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a small pan over medium heat, toast the pecan pieces until they become fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to your brownies. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks—about 1/2 inch should do. This will help distribute the apple flavor throughout each brownie while providing those delightful bites of fruit.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Then add in one egg and mix well again. This process helps incorporate air into the mixture, making your brownies light yet fudgy.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add in the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough brownies, so be careful!

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Now it’s time to add those beautiful apple chunks and toasted pecans into the mix! Stir gently; don’t worry if the batter feels sticky—that’s from all that juicy apple goodness.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into a buttered 8×8 baking dish (or lined with parchment paper) and press it down evenly. Bake for 30-45 minutes or until golden brown across the crust. Keep an eye on it; ovens can vary!

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing into squares. This waiting period helps set up those gooey centers!

Step 9: Serve

Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. These delightful Apple Brownies are fantastic on their own but would also be amazing with some vanilla ice cream on top!

Enjoy sharing this deliciousness with family and friends—these Apple Brownies are sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Brownies

Making Apple Brownies is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your baking game to the next level!

• Use fresh apples – Fresh apples not only provide better flavor but also ensure a juicy texture that enhances the brownies. Opt for a mix of sweet and tart varieties for added depth.
• Toast pecans for extra flavor – Toasting the pecans amplifies their nutty aroma and flavor profile, making each bite even more delicious. Just a few minutes in a pan can make a big difference!
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps keep the brownies from becoming tough. You want them soft and chewy, so stirring gently is key!
• Check for doneness using a toothpick – Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Let cool before slicing – Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes ensures they hold their shape when cut. Patience pays off when it comes to presentation!

How to Serve Apple Brownies

Serving Apple Brownies can be as fun as baking them! With a little creativity, you can turn this simple dessert into an eye-catching treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, creamy texture that complements the flavors of the brownies beautifully.
• Chopped nuts – Sprinkling some extra toasted pecans or walnuts on top gives a crunchy contrast that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream – A scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream takes these brownies to another level. The cold creaminess pairs wonderfully with warm brownies.
• Fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a bright contrast to the rich flavors of apple brownies. It’s great for balancing sweetness!
• Caramel sauce drizzle – Drizzling some dairy-free caramel sauce over your apple brownies adds an indulgent touch that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your Apple Brownies but also create an inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing with family and friends! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Brownies are perfect for meal prep! They store well and can easily be made in advance, so you can enjoy a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Apple Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the brownies into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350℉ (175℃) for about 5-10 minutes if you prefer a crispier texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Brownies.

Can I use other types of apples for Apple Brownies?

Absolutely! While your favorite apple variety is best, feel free to experiment with different ones. Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweetness.

What makes these Apple Brownies different from regular brownies?

Apple Brownies incorporate fresh apples which add moisture and a fruity flavor that sets them apart from traditional brownies. They’re also great for adding a bit of healthy sweetness!

How do I ensure my Apple Brownies are perfectly baked?

To check if your Apple Brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, indicating they’re baked but not overdone.

Can I make these Apple Brownies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s suitable for baking and has xanthan gum if needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Apple Brownies! They’re not just delicious but also bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner, they’re sure to be a hit. Happy baking!