Apple Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort, these Apple Brownies are just the ticket! This recipe has been a favorite of mine for years, combining the sweetness of apples with the richness of buttery goodness. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight dessert or sharing them at a family gathering, these brownies are sure to impress everyone.

What makes these Apple Brownies so special is their unique flavor. They’re not your typical brownie; they offer a lovely balance of moistness from the apples and crunch from the toasted pecans. Plus, they are easy to make, which means you can have a delicious dessert ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious brownies in the oven before you know it.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple pieces and nutty flavor.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun get-together with friends, these brownies fit right in.
• Make-ahead option: You can whip up a batch ahead of time for an easy dessert during busy weeks.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of flavors will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our delicious Apple Brownies. These are all pantry staples that you might already have on hand!

For the Brownies:

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

• Add chocolate chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for an extra sweet touch.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or even almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Use other fruits: Experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches for a delightful twist!
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Apple Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a small pan, toast the pecan pieces until fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor. Once toasted, set them aside to cool while we prepare the batter.

Step 3: Chop the Apples

Peel, core, and chop your apples into small chunks, about 1/2 inch in size. This allows the apples to soften beautifully during baking while adding moisture and sweetness.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then add in your egg and mix again until everything is well combined. This process helps incorporate air into the mixture, making your brownies light and tender.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

Next, add in the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix just until everything is combined—overmixing can lead to dense brownies!

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in those lovely apple chunks and toasted pecans. Don’t worry if your batter feels sticky; that’s just from all those juicy apples.

Step 7: Bake

Pour and press the batter into a buttered 8×8 baking dish (or lined with parchment). Bake for about 30-45 minutes or until golden brown across the crust. Keep an eye on them as every oven is different!

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows them to firm up just enough to cut easily.

Step 9: Serve Up Those Delicious Brownies!

Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. These Apple Brownies would be fantastic paired with your favorite ice cream—a perfect end to any meal!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Brownies

Making Apple Brownies can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples not only enhance the flavor but also provide moisture, which is essential for achieving that perfect brownie texture.

• Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and deepens their flavor, adding an extra layer of warmth to your brownies.

• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher brownies; we want them to be soft and chewy!

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary significantly in temperature. Start checking your brownies at around 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing helps them set better and makes cutting easier without crumbling.

How to Serve Apple Brownies

Serving Apple Brownies can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to ensure your dessert is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich brownies beautifully.

• Caramel drizzle: A warm caramel drizzle adds sweetness and a touch of elegance, making each bite feel like a special treat.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm Apple Brownies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, tangy balance to the sweet brownies, making your dessert feel lighter.

• Chai-spiced tea: Enjoying these brownies with a cup of chai tea enhances the cozy flavors of cinnamon and apple, making for a comforting experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Apple Brownies will surely impress friends and family alike! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week; just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Slice the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat, you can microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350℉, place brownies on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious Apple Brownies:

Can I use other types of apples in Apple Brownies?

Absolutely! While I love using sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp, feel free to experiment with your favorite apples. Just make sure they’re not too tart!

How do I know when my Apple Brownies are done?

Check for a golden brown crust around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I add nuts other than pecans to my Apple Brownies?

Yes! If you prefer walnuts or almonds, go ahead and substitute them. Just ensure that they are toasted for extra flavor.

What makes these Apple Brownies special?

These Apple Brownies are not only delicious but also packed with flavor from fresh apples and toasted pecans. They’re a delightful twist on traditional brownies!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these warm and comforting Apple Brownies! They bring together the sweetness of apples with that delightful brownie texture, creating a treat that everyone will love. Enjoy sharing these with family and friends, or savoring them all to yourself—either way, they’re sure to brighten your day. Happy baking!