Apple Brownies
Apple Brownies are a delicious twist on the traditional brownie, combining the rich, fudgy texture we love with the fresh, sweet flavor of apples. This delightful dessert is not only moist and chewy but also bursting with the goodness of fruit and nuts, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Why make this recipe
This recipe for Apple Brownies stands out because it beautifully melds the flavors of cinnamon and vanilla with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a comforting dessert. It’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover apples you might have, and it’s incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or just indulging yourself at home, these brownies are sure to impress.
How to make Apple Brownies
Making Apple Brownies is straightforward, with just a few key steps to follow. From melting the butter to folding in the apples and pecans, each step builds on the last to create a flavorful and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar until well blended.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
How to serve Apple Brownies
Apple Brownies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own, but for an extra touch, you might want to dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert.
How to store
To store your Apple Brownies, first make sure they are completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips to make
- Use firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist.
- To add a layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the batter.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Try adding chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds. For a spicier version, add a bit of pumpkin pie spice or swap the apple for pear.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes! While firm varieties like Granny Smith work best, you can use any apples you prefer, just keep in mind that different apples can affect the sweetness and texture.
Q: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free. Be sure to check that the baking powder is also gluten-free.
Q: How can I make these brownies vegan?
A: To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan butter. Ensure the brown sugar is vegan-friendly as well.
Apple Brownies
Ingredients
Batter Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter Melted
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix-Ins
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples Firm apples recommended
- 1 cup chopped pecans Can substitute with walnuts or almonds
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar until well blended.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
