Apple Brownies: 1 Amazing Fall Treat

Apple brownies have become my go-to fall dessert, offering a unique twist on classic baked goods. I remember the first time I tried making them; I was aiming for something that tasted like apple pie but had the comforting chewiness of a brownie. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filled my kitchen, and the result was incredible! This easy apple brownie recipe delivers that perfect balance of tart fruit, warm spice, and rich, fudgy texture. They’re so much more than just brownies with apples; they’re a whole experience! Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Brownie Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these amazing apple brownies! They’re not your average dessert; they offer a delightful departure from traditional apple pie with their perfect texture and cozy flavors.

• Chewy Perfection: Experience a wonderfully chewy texture with a soft, gooey center that’s simply irresistible.
• Flavor Explosion: Packed with the tartness of fresh apples and the warm embrace of cinnamon, these are the best apple brownies you’ll ever make.
• Effortless to Make: This easy apple brownie recipe is surprisingly simple, perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike.
• Versatile Treat: They’re fantastic on their own, but even better served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Seasonal Delight: Captures the essence of fall with every bite, making them a perfect addition to any autumn gathering.
• Crowd Pleaser: These homemade apple brownies are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
• Unique Twist: Offers a delightful spin on classic brownies, combining familiar comfort with exciting new flavors.

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Brownies

Gather these simple ingredients to create the best apple brownie recipe. These components work together to give you wonderfully moist apple brownies with a perfect chewy texture.

• ½ cup (112 g) salted butter, at room temperature – Room temperature butter creams beautifully with sugar for a lighter texture.
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar – This is essential for sweetness and that classic brownie chewiness.
• 1 large egg – Binds everything together and adds richness to our homemade apple brownies.
• 1 cup (133 g) all‑purpose flour – The base structure for our baked apple brownies.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the brownies rise just enough without becoming cakey.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – This warm spice pairs perfectly with the apples for a spiced apple brownie feel.
• 1 cup chopped apple pieces (about 100 g) – Tart apples like Granny Smith are great for a bright flavor contrast in these brownies with apples.
• ½ cup toasted pecan pieces (about 53 g) – Toasting brings out their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the chewy apple brownie bars.

How to Make Easy Apple Brownies

Whipping up these delicious apple brownies is a breeze! You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create these incredible baked apple brownies that are bursting with flavor and have a wonderfully chewy texture.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (≈ 175 °C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of your homemade apple brownies.
2. Step 2: While the oven preheats, toast the pecans. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat or under the broiler, watching closely until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely.
3. Step 3: Prepare your apples by peeling, coring, and chopping them into approximately ½‑inch chunks. This size ensures they bake evenly within the brownie batter.
4. Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow. This step is key for achieving a tender crumb in your easy apple brownies.
5. Step 5: Beat in the large egg until it’s fully incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture.
6. Step 6: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all‑purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients for your spiced apple brownies.
7. Step 7: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix! You want to stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour.
8. Step 8: Gently fold in the chopped apples and the cooled toasted pecans. The batter will be quite thick and sticky; this is normal for these chewy apple brownie bars.
9. Step 9: Transfer the thick batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the batter down and even it out. For an extra touch, you can press a few extra apple or pecan pieces onto the surface.
10. Step 10: Bake for 30–40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start to turn golden brown and the top appears set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
11. Step 11: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let the apple brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes, but 30 minutes is even better, allowing them to set up properly.
12. Step 12: After cooling, cut the brownies into squares and serve them warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving that perfect chewy texture in your baked apple brownies is all about a few key details. If your bars tend to be a bit too soft or cake-like, here are a few tricks.

Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added, as this develops gluten and can lead to a tougher or cakey texture. Also, be mindful of the amount of apples; too many can add excess moisture, making the brownies less chewy and more like a cake. If your finished brownies seem softer than you like, you can gently reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes, or even under the broiler for a minute or two (watch very carefully to prevent burning!) to help crisp up the top. For more baking tips, you can check out our latest recipes.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Brownie Dessert Ideas

Want to elevate your apple brownie game? These simple tips will help you create the most amazing apple brownie dessert ideas that are sure to impress. They’re all about enhancing that perfect texture and flavor.

• Use room temperature butter and eggs for the creamiest batter.
• Don’t skimp on toasting the pecans; it unlocks their full flavor!
• Let the brownies cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Consider a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a delightful crunch.

What’s the secret to perfectly moist apple brownies?

The key to wonderfully moist apple brownies is balancing the apple moisture with the brownie batter. Using slightly fewer apples than you think, and ensuring they are chopped into small, even pieces, helps prevent them from making the brownies too cake-like. For more information on baking science, you can explore resources on baking techniques.

Can I make these apple brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these apple brownies are great for making ahead! You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and store them at room temperature. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully. You can find more information on food storage and safety on our privacy policy page.

How do I avoid common mistakes with baked apple brownies?

Avoid overmixing the batter after adding flour, as this can make them tough. Also, resist the urge to overbake; a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean, for the chewiest result.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Crumble Brownies

These apple crumble brownies are incredibly versatile and delicious served in so many ways! Their warm, spiced apple flavor makes them a perfect dessert on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary treats. For a classic pairing, serve them warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream; the contrast in temperature and texture is divine. Another delightful option is to drizzle them with a caramel sauce or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. These brownies with apples also make a fantastic base for a deconstructed apple crumble dessert when served alongside a warm custard.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Brownie Bars

These homemade apple brownies are a delicious treat, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of nutrition per serving. Remember, these figures are for one of the apple brownie bars.

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in this apple brownie recipe. For more details on our data sources, please refer to our terms of use.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Brownies

Properly storing your delicious apple brownies ensures they stay wonderfully chewy and flavorful. After baking, it’s crucial to let them cool completely in the pan for at least 15-30 minutes before attempting to cut them. This cooling period is essential for the structure of your baked apple brownies to set properly. Once cooled, cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you have more than you can eat, these brownies freeze exceptionally well! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the frozen or refrigerated brownies on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly re-crisped. If you have any questions about our storage recommendations, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brownies with Apples

What is the best type of apple to use for these brownies with apples?

For the best flavor and texture in your apple brownies, I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of Granny Smith and a sweeter variety like Honeycrisp. Their slight tartness cuts through the richness of the brownie and complements the spices beautifully. Avoid overly soft apples, as they can release too much moisture and make your brownies cakey.

Why are my apple brownies dry?

Dryness in your baked apple brownies can happen for a few reasons. Most commonly, it’s due to overbaking. Keep a close eye on them and remove them when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs attached, not completely clean. Another factor can be using too little butter or sugar, or an incorrect ratio of dry to wet ingredients. Ensure you’re following the recipe precisely for that perfect chewy texture.

Can I add chocolate to these apple brownies?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or chunks is a fantastic way to create delicious apple and chocolate brownies. White chocolate chips or a dark chocolate ganache drizzled on top would be divine. Just fold in about ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips along with the apples and pecans. The combination of warm apple spice and chocolate is truly unbeatable!

How do I get a chewier texture in my apple brownie dessert?

To achieve that ideal chewy texture in your apple brownie dessert, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Also, be careful not to overbake the brownies. A slightly underbaked center will continue to set as they cool, resulting in that sought-after fudgy and chewy quality. Letting them cool completely before slicing also helps maintain their structure and chewiness.

Variations of Apple and Chocolate Brownies You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? These variations on the classic apple and chocolate brownies offer exciting new ways to enjoy this beloved treat. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier option or just want to experiment with flavors, there’s a twist for everyone!

• Gluten-Free Apple Brownies: Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure. The result is a wonderfully chewy brownie that everyone can enjoy.
• Vegan Apple Brownies: For a fully vegan version, replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins), and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. These vegan apple brownies are just as delicious!
• Spiced Apple Brownies with White Chocolate: Amp up the spice by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. Swapping the pecans for white chocolate chips creates a delightful sweet and tart combination that’s perfect for a gourmet apple brownie experience.
• Apple Pie Brownies: Elevate these brownies by adding a layer of thinly sliced apples on top before baking, or even a crumble topping made from flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon. They’ll truly embody the spirit of apple pie brownies.

Apple Brownies: 1 Amazing Fall Treat

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 55-65 minutes
• Yield: 16 squares 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

These apple brownies offer a delightful chewy texture with a soft center, packed with tart apple, warm cinnamon, and toasty pecans. They are a perfect fall treat, providing cozy flavors that differ from traditional apple pie.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ cup (112 g) salted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup (133 g) all‑purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped apple pieces (about 100 g)
• ½ cup toasted pecan pieces (about 53 g)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (≈ 175 °C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line with parchment.
2. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet or under the broiler briefly until fragrant. Let cool.
3. Peel, core, and chop the apples into ~½‑inch chunks.
4. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
6. In a separate bowl (or directly), whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
7. Add the dry ingredients into the wet and mix until just combined—no flour streaks.
8. Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans. The batter will be sticky.
9. Transfer the batter into your prepared pan, pressing gently to even it out. Optionally, you can press extra apple or pecan pieces on top.
10. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top looks fully set.
11. Remove from oven. Let cool in pan for at least 15 minutes (30 minutes is better) before slicing.
12. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Great with ice cream on top!

Notes

• Don’t overdo the apples; too many will add moisture and make the bars more cake‑like rather than chewy.
• If bars remain soft, pop them under broil or toast for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Nut swap: Use walnuts or your favorite nuts in place of pecans.
• Apple swap: Try tart Granny Smith or sweeter Honeycrisp apples, or a mix of both.
• Spice twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or use a little pumpkin pie spice alongside cinnamon.
• Make ahead or freeze: The bars soften over time, becoming more cake‑like by day 3. They freeze well in an airtight container; thaw at room temperature, and re-warm/rest briefly in the oven to crisp the top.
• Scaling up: To double the recipe, use a 9×13 inch pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

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