Apple Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of apples and nuts, look no further than these Apple Brownies! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. With its cozy aroma wafting through the kitchen, it feels like a warm hug from an old friend. They’re perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something sweet to brighten your day or make for your next family gathering.

These Apple Brownies are not just any dessert; they are a fantastic way to enjoy the sweetness of fresh apples while indulging in a fudgy brownie-like treat. Plus, they are easy to prepare and sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious brownies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the combination of apples and toasted pecans, making this a hit for both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: These brownies store well, so you can prepare them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Deliciously comforting: The warm spices and sweet apples create a flavor that is perfect for any occasion.
• Great with ice cream: Serve them warm with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an extra special treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together beautifully in these Apple Brownies. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

• 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

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love most.

• Add chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist, mix in some dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Try other nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, walnuts or almonds can add great flavor and crunch!
• Use different spices: Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice to change things up.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Apple Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. This step is crucial because it ensures that the brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a small pan, toast the pecan pieces until they become fragrant. This brings out their rich flavor and adds an irresistible crunch to your brownies. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and chop your apples into small chunks—about half an inch works best. The fresh apple pieces will keep these brownies moist and add delightful bites of sweetness.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then add the egg and mix again until everything is well combined. This step is key for creating that wonderful texture we all love!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans into the batter. At this point, you’ll notice that the mixture is sticky and wet from the apples; that’s exactly what we want!

Step 7: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter into a buttered 8×8 baking dish (or lined with parchment paper). Press it down gently so it spreads evenly. Bake for 30-45 minutes until golden brown across the crust. Baking times may vary depending on your oven—keep an eye on them after about 30 minutes!

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps them set up nicely so they hold their shape.

Step 9: Slice and Enjoy!

Cut into squares and serve these delightful Apple Brownies as they are or with a scoop of ice cream on top! They are sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Brownies

Creating the perfect batch of Apple Brownies is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure they are moist, rich, and full of flavor.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples not only add sweetness and moisture but also enhance the overall texture. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies that lose that gooey quality we love.

• Test with a toothpick: Baking times may vary by oven. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, your brownies are ready. This ensures they don’t overbake.

• Allow cooling time: Patience is key! Letting them cool thoroughly allows the brownies to set properly, making slicing easier and preventing them from falling apart.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon adds warmth, feel free to add nutmeg or even a pinch of ginger for an extra flavor kick that will surprise your taste buds!

How to Serve Apple Brownies

Serving Apple Brownies can be as creative as you’d like! Their comforting flavors make them versatile enough for casual gatherings or special occasions.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A light and airy topping that adds a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
• Caramel drizzle: A simple homemade or store-bought drizzle brings an indulgent touch that complements the apples beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some additional toasted pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla almond ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla almond 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 counterpoint to the dense brownies. Think berries, melons, and citrus for a burst of freshness!

• Yogurt parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a light side option that balances the sweetness of the brownies, while adding protein.

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea serves as a soothing accompaniment to your dessert, enhancing the overall experience without overpowering the flavors.

Enjoy these delightful Apple Brownies with loved ones, and watch how they become a favorite treat in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Brownies are perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time for a delicious treat throughout the week. Enjoying them fresh is delightful, but they store well, making them a great option for busy days!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; when ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃).
• Place the brownies on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Apple Brownies.

Can I make Apple Brownies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed/chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.

What are some variations I can try with these Apple Brownies?

You can add chocolate chips, swap pecans for walnuts, or mix in other fruits like cranberries or raisins for added flavor.

How do I know when my Apple Brownies are done?

Your Apple Brownies should be golden brown across the crust. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Are these Apple Brownies healthy?

With fresh apples and nuts, these brownies provide some nutritional benefits, but moderation is key since they still contain sugar and butter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Apple Brownies! They capture the sweet essence of apples while delivering that comforting brownie texture we all love. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!