Let’s Bake Apple Brownies
Alright, come on in, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get cozy in the kitchen! Today, we’re making something that’s been a HUGE hit in my house (and I think it will be in yours, too): Apple Brownies!
Honestly, I can still remember the first time I made these. It was a total experiment. See, I had a ton of apples from our little backyard tree – the kids went wild picking them, naturally – and I was trying to think of something different to do with them other than the usual apple pie. I was craving brownies (aren’t I always?), and a lightbulb went off. Why not combine the two?
Let me tell you, the first batch was… well, let’s just say it was a learning experience. The apples were too chunky, the batter was too wet, and it took forever to bake. But, I’m stubborn! I tweaked it, adjusted the recipe, and finally, finally, I landed on the perfect Apple Brownies. The kind that are fudgy, chocolatey, and have just the right amount of apple-cinnamon goodness.
The aroma of these Apple Brownies baking? Forget about it! It’s pure comfort. The house smells like a warm hug, the kind that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book. And the taste? It’s a perfect balance of rich, decadent brownie with the subtle sweetness and tang of apples. I often make these to have along with a cup of Apple Cider Sangria from my blog.
One thing I’ve learned the hard way with baking is that you can’t rush perfection. These Apple Brownies aren’t difficult to make, but you do need to give them a little love and attention. And believe me, the results are SO worth it. It’s important to have a bit of patience when baking.
Now, don’t let the idea of baking intimidate you. I know it can be scary, especially if you’re not a seasoned baker. But trust me, this recipe is super easy and family-friendly. My philosophy in the kitchen is all about making delicious, nourishing food that everyone will enjoy, without spending hours slaving away. Life’s too short for complicated recipes! And besides, even if your first batch isn’t perfect, it’ll still be delicious (trust me, my family ate the “learning experience” batch just fine!).
So, are you ready to dive in and make some Apple Brownies? I promise you, it’s going to be fun, and you’ll end up with a treat that will become a family favorite. Let’s get baking!
What You’ll Need for This Apple Brownies
Alright, let’s gather our ingredients. This is where the magic happens! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious baked apple brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: I always use unsalted butter in my baking so I can control the amount of salt. Plus, it just tastes better! You can find good quality butter at almost any grocery store.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that perfect brownie texture.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a touch of molasses flavor, which complements the apples beautifully.
- 4 large eggs: These bind everything together and create a rich, fudgy texture.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: I always use pure vanilla extract. It makes a HUGE difference in flavor. You can find pure vanilla extract at most grocery stores, but I sometimes get mine online in bulk to save money.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This provides structure to the Apple Brownies. I always keep a big bag of all-purpose flour handy.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives the brownies that rich, chocolatey flavor. I prefer using Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a darker, more intense flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: This helps the apple brownies recipe rise slightly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: This balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This adds that warm, comforting apple-cinnamon flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples: I prefer using firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. They hold their shape well during baking.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): This adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor. I know some people are allergic to nuts, so it’s completely fine to leave them out. I always use walnuts.
- Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional): A drizzle of caramel sauce takes these **Apple Brownies** to the next level! Drizzle it on top after baking for extra sweetness.
Here’s a little trick I learned while baking easy apple brownies: before measuring your flour, fluff it up with a spoon. This ensures you don’t pack too much flour into your measuring cup, which can result in dry brownies. Another little kitchen wisdom tidbit.
For a shortcut, especially when you’re in a rush (like I usually am!), you can buy pre-chopped apples. Just make sure they’re still firm and not too mushy. It’ll save you some time and effort, especially when you need easy apple brownies.
And speaking of cost-saving tips, buying apples in season is always the way to go! They’re cheaper, fresher, and taste way better.
Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, make sure to store any leftovers properly. Nuts should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge to prevent them from going rancid. Apples can be stored in the fridge for a week or two. And don’t forget, you can always make apple cinnamon brownies!
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get to the fun part!
Let’s Make This Apple Brownies Together
Okay, here’s where the real magic happens. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step, just like we’re in the kitchen together!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the Apple Brownies from sticking. I learned the hard way with Apple Brownies that a little extra grease and flour is always a good idea!
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy. This is the base of our delicious brownies.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can result in tough brownies.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using). Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. In my kitchen, these rich Apple Brownies usually takes about 32 minutes, but oven times can vary. Don’t worry if your Apple Brownies seem a little soft in the middle; they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This is the hardest part, I know! But trust me, it’s worth the wait.
While the apple brownies recipe is cooking, I usually tidy up the kitchen a bit. Or, let’s be honest, I scroll through social media! I also like to start thinking about how I’m going to serve them.
Your Apple Brownies should smell like a warm apple pie mixed with chocolate heaven. It’s seriously intoxicating!
One family-tested shortcut is to use a boxed brownie mix and just add the apples and spices. I won’t judge! It can be a lifesaver when you’re short on time.
Another Apple Brownies cooking tip is to let the butter cool slightly before adding it to the sugar. If the butter is too hot, it can melt the sugar and change the texture of the Apple Brownies.
And there you have it! Delicious, homemade **Apple Brownies**. Now, let’s talk about how to serve them.
For an even richer, indulgent treat, consider trying Caramel Candy Apple Brownies – Melanie Makes!
How I Love to Serve This Apple Brownies
Now that you’ve baked these amazing fudgy Apple Brownies, let’s talk about how to serve them. Presentation is key, right?
My family loves this Apple Brownies when I serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melting over the warm, fudgy brownie is just heavenly. We also love them with a drizzle of caramel sauce – because why not? Sometimes I’ll add a dollop of whipped cream to really make it something special.
As for side dishes, a simple glass of cold milk is always a good choice. It’s classic, comforting, and pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and apple flavors. Or, for the adults, a cup of hot coffee or tea is a great option. You can also pair this dish with Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip from my blog for the ultimate dessert experience!
This Apple Brownies is perfect for so many occasions. It’s great for potlucks, bake sales, or just a cozy night in with the family. I especially love making it in the fall, when apples are in season and the weather is getting cooler. It’s also a big hit at holiday gatherings.
When it comes to presentation, I like to cut the Apple Brownies into squares and arrange them on a pretty platter. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few apple slices can add a nice touch.
If you have extra Apple Brownies, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Or, you can freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
As for seasonal variations, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit different seasons. In the fall, I like to add a bit of pumpkin spice to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor. In the summer, I might add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
Friends always ask for this tasty Apple Brownies recipe whenever I make it. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser! My friend, Sarah, even said it was the best brownie she’d ever had (high praise!).
Oh, and I almost forgot! You can even turn these into caramel apple brownies by adding chopped caramel candies to the batter. Yum!
For another delicious apple treat, check out my recipe for Caramel Apple Slices with Chocolate Drizzle on my blog. It’s another family favorite!
So, go ahead, get creative and have fun with your **Apple Brownies**. There are endless possibilities!
Your Apple Brownies Questions Answered
Okay, let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about these easy Apple Brownies. I’ve definitely had my fair share of baking mishaps, so I’m happy to share my wisdom (and mistakes!) with you.
My Apple Brownies are too dry. What did I do wrong?
You know what I do when my apple cinnamon brownies are too dry? Usually, it means you’ve either overbaked them or used too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly (fluff it up first!) and don’t overbake. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
My Apple Brownies are too gooey. How can I fix that?
This usually means you haven’t baked them long enough. Put them back in the oven for a few more minutes and check again. Also, make sure you’re using the right size pan. A pan that’s too small can result in underbaked brownies.
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! I prefer using firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, but you can experiment with other varieties. Just keep in mind that softer apples might break down more during baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using a blend that’s specifically designed for baking.
Can I add chocolate chips to these Apple Brownies?
Of course! Chocolate chips are always a good idea. I like to use semi-sweet chocolate chips, but you can use any kind you like. I always make apple cinnamon brownies.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the brownies?
Toss the diced apples with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This will help them stay suspended throughout the brownies.
Can I freeze these Apple Brownies?
Yes, you can! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
I’ve also had readers tell me that adding a pinch of salt to the caramel sauce really enhances the flavors. So, feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!
And there you have it! All your Apple Brownies questions answered. Now, go forth and bake with confidence!
My Final Thoughts on This Apple Brownies
Well, there you have it – my recipe for Apple Brownies Recipe. I truly hope you give it a try and that it becomes a cherished recipe in your family, just like it has in mine.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder of simple joys: cozy autumn days, the smell of apples and cinnamon filling the house, and the happy faces of my family enjoying a homemade treat. It’s just so delicious and wonderful.
Before I sign off, let me share a few of my Apple Brownies Pro Tips:
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing leads to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the brownies.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting: This will make them easier to cut and prevent them from crumbling.
As for variations, we’ve tried so many! My daughter, Lily, loves when I add chopped pecans and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. My son, Tom, prefers his plain, with just a dusting of powdered sugar. And my husband, Mark, is a sucker for anything with chocolate chips, so I often throw in a handful of those. The Gooey Caramel Apple Brownies – foodiecrush are my personal favorite.
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun! Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch to this recipe. I hope your Apple Brownies turn out amazing and that you create some wonderful memories while making them.
I can’t wait to hear about your Apple Brownies cooking adventures! Share your pictures and stories with me on social media – I love seeing your creations! You can also find more inspiration and delicious recipes on my blog.
Happy baking, friends! And remember, even if your brownies aren’t perfect, they’re still made with love. Enjoy every bite!
You are now well-equipped to create delicious Apple Brownies!
Apple Brownies
These apple brownies are a delicious fall treat, combining the fudgy goodness of brownies with the sweet, comforting flavor of apples. Perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup peeled and diced apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
- Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
Serve these apple brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.