Apple Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Apple brownies offer a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutty pecans with fresh, juicy apples. This recipe yields soft, moist brownies that are perfect for a cozy dessert or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (133 g)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup salted butter, room temperature (112 g)
• 1 cup sugar (200 g)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g)
• 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Toast the pecan pieces in a small pan over medium heat until they become fragrant, then set them aside to cool.
2. Step 2: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks around 1/2 inch in size.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Add the egg to the creamed mixture and beat until fully incorporated and fluffy.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Step 6: Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans. The batter will become sticky and moist due to the apples.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into a buttered 8×8-inch baking dish or one lined with parchment paper. Press it down gently to even out the surface.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown. Baking time may vary depending on your oven; it took approximately 35 minutes in this case.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing.
10. Step 10: Cut into squares and serve. These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, try adding a tablespoon of applesauce to the batter.
• Swap pecans with walnuts or skip the nuts entirely if preferred.
• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a more tangy flavor, or sweeter apples like Fuji for mild sweetness.
• To add a bit of spice, sprinkle some nutmeg or ground ginger along with the cinnamon.

Storage

Store the apple brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave or warm oven before serving to enjoy a soft texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried apples instead of fresh ones?

Fresh apples provide moisture and texture that dried apples can’t replicate. If using dried apples, soak them briefly in warm water to rehydrate and be aware the brownies may be less moist.

Do I have to toast the pecans?

Toasting enhances the flavor and adds crunch, but you can skip this step if short on time. Raw pecans will still work but have a milder taste.

Apple Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 137 reviews

Delightfully moist and flavorful Apple Brownies combine the comforting warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with the rich texture of classic brownies. Loaded with toasted pecans for added crunch, this easy-to-make dessert is perfect for fall gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, fruity treat.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies (8×8 inch pan, cut into 16 squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (133 g)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup salted butter, room temperature (112 g)
• 1 cup sugar (200 g)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g)
• 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Toast Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). In a small pan over medium heat, toast the pecan pieces until fragrant, which takes about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks about 1/2 inch in size to evenly distribute throughout the batter.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter with the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed.
4. Add Egg: Add the egg to the creamed mixture and continue beating until fully incorporated and fluffy.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to ensure even dispersion of leavening and spices.
6. Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the texture.
7. Add Apples and Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecan pieces. The batter will be sticky and wet because of the fresh apples.
8. Prepare Baking Dish: Butter an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
9. Bake: Pour and press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. This usually takes about 35 minutes but may vary by oven.
10. Cool and Serve: Remove the apple brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. These brownies are delightful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Notes

• Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for best texture and flavor contrast.
• Be sure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep brownies tender.
• To toast pecans without a pan, you can also use the oven at 350℉ for about 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and ensure your sugar is vegan.

Keywords: apple brownies, cinnamon apple dessert, pecan brownies, fruity brownies, fall dessert, easy brownies