Apple Brownies Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Welcome the Flavors of Apple Brownies Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy treat that balances fruity freshness with a golden crisp crust, this Apple Brownies Recipe is a real winner. I love how the natural sweetness of the apples melds effortlessly with warm cinnamon and toasted pecans, creating a bubbly, fragrant dessert that feels like a big hug on a plate.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want to bring a little homemade magic to your kitchen. The moist, slightly sticky batter transforms into luscious squares that pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce—you’re going to enjoy every bite.

Market Basket & Pantry Picks

Choosing the right ingredients makes all the difference in this Apple Brownies Recipe. Fresh apples are a must—they’re the heart of the dish, bringing juiciness and natural sweetness. I often reach for crisp varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp, but Granny Smith works well if you prefer a tangier punch. Don’t skip toasting those pecans; it amps up their nutty aroma beautifully.

• 1/2 cup butter (112 g): Salted and at room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1 cup sugar (200 g): Adds sweetness and helps create a bubbly, golden crust.
• 1 egg: Binds the batter while keeping it light and fluffy.
• 1 cup all purpose flour (133 g): The base for structure; sift if you want an extra tender crumb.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the brownies rise just enough.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and boosts flavor.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: Brings fragrant warmth that complements the apples.
• 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g): Peeled and cubed into bite-sized chunks.
• ½ cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g): Adds crunch and a toasty depth.

Cook Apple Brownies Recipe Step by Step

Now for the fun part—bringing all these fragrant ingredients together into tingly warm apple brownies fresh from the oven. Follow these easy steps and you’ll have a dessert to brag about!

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This makes cleanup a breeze and helps the crust crisp beautifully.
2. Toast the Pecans: In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecan pieces until you can smell their warm, nutty aroma—about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning! Set them aside to cool completely.
3. Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and chop your apples into small chunks—around half an inch is perfect. This size lets them stay juicy without sinking to the bottom of the batter.
4. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature butter with the sugar until the mixture turns fluffy and pale, usually around 3-4 minutes. This step creates a lovely airy texture for your brownies.
5. Add the Egg: Crack in the egg and mix well again until combined and smooth. This keeps the batter rich and helps with that perfect structure.
6. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined—you don’t want to overmix and risk tough brownies.
7. Fold in Apples & Pecans: Gently stir in the chopped apples and toasted pecans. The batter will now be sticky and slightly wet from the apples, which is exactly what you want—they add moisture and bursts of flavor.
8. Bake to Perfection: Spread and press the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-45 minutes until the crust is a beautiful golden brown. I found around 35 minutes works great, but ovens vary—check by inserting a toothpick; a few moist crumbs are perfect.
9. Cool and Slice: Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps them set up for cleaner slicing. Cut into generous squares and get ready to enjoy!

Serving the Dish with Flair

These apple brownies are a joy to serve because they’re just as delicious warm as they are at room temperature. I love offering mine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to make it extra special. The sweet, nutty aroma and cozy cinnamon notes always get rave reviews around my table—your family and friends will cherish this treat too!

Fun Variations with Apple Brownies Recipe

• Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist that’s equally cozy.
• Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for bursts of chewy sweetness.
• Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips if you want a richer contrast with the apples.
• Use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper caramel flavor in the crust.
• Mix in grated fresh ginger for a subtle zing that brightens the recipe.
• Top with a crumble of oats, brown sugar, and butter before baking for an extra crunchy topping.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days—bring to room temp or warm slightly before serving.
• Freeze: Wrap squares tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to regain that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the batter the night before, cover, and refrigerate it. Stir gently before baking as the apples may release juice.

Apple Brownies Recipe FAQs

• Can I use different types of apples? Absolutely! Firmer apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best to keep chunks intact; softer apples may turn mushy.
• Is it possible to make this gluten-free? Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend; check that your baking powder is gluten-free too.
• How do I know when the brownies are done? Look for a golden brown crust and insert a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs but not raw batter.
• Can I substitute nuts? Walnuts or almonds make great alternatives if pecans aren’t available; toast them lightly before adding.
• Can these brownies be made vegan? You can replace butter with vegan margarine and swap the egg for a flax or chia egg.

Print