There’s a special kind of warmth that fills the kitchen when apples and cinnamon meet the oven. These Apple Brownies are soft, chewy, and rich with buttery flavor, like your favorite blondie married with a tender apple cake. Every bite has tiny pops of apple, a hint of spice, and that nostalgic “home” feeling.
Whether you’re baking for family or treating yourself on a quiet afternoon with tea, this is the kind of recipe that makes the day feel softer. Pin it for later and bake a batch this weekend.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for cozy weekends or brunch with family
- Wholesome flavor that feels like home
- A delightful twist on traditional brownies
- Great for using up extra apples
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – gives structure to the brownies
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the brownies rise
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – works with the baking powder for a fluffy texture
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds that cozy, spiced warmth
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted – for richness and moisture
- 1 cup brown sugar – brings a deep caramel flavor
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – balances sweetness
- 3 large eggs – binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – infuses a lovely aroma
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled and cored) – fruity moisture and sweetness
- 1 cup chopped pecans – adds crunch and flavor
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Measure flour correctly for a light texture: Use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly with the measuring cup.
- Let baked goods cool before glazing: This helps prevent sogginess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container: Keeps them fresh and soft for days.
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp: They hold their shape well and add a nice tartness.
- Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients: This keeps the brownies tender.
Variations and Creative Twists
- Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter option, try folding in a cup of chocolate chips.
- Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a change in flavor and crunch.
- Spices: Add nutmeg or ginger for additional warmth.
- Swirl: Create a cinnamon and brown sugar swirl by mixing those ingredients together and layering them before baking.
How to Store or Freeze
To keep your Apple Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, cut the brownies and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for that freshly baked feel.
Serving Ideas
These Apple Brownies are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed in many cozy ways:
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet treat during the day.
- Perfect for Sunday brunch, paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
For More Recipe Inspiration
- If you’re a fan of easy baking, check out my recipe for Protein Muffins.
- Looking for a fun cake idea? Try making a Smash Cake for your next celebration.
- Explore the exciting world of Bento Cake Recipes for a delicious and trendy treat.
Apple Brownies – FAQs
FAQs
Can I use other types of fruit instead of apples?
Yes, you can. Try pears for a similar texture or chopped peaches for a softer, sweeter flavor. Adjust bake time slightly if the fruit is very juicy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Check doneness a minute or two earlier, as bakes can vary.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. The edges will look set and slightly pull away from the pan.
What type of apples are best for baking?
Firmer, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. They hold their shape and balance the sweetness with bright, fresh flavor.
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Apple Brownies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure to the brownies
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the brownies rise
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Works with the baking powder for a fluffy texture
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds that cozy, spiced warmth
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted For richness and moisture
- 1 cup brown sugar Brings a deep caramel flavor
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Balances sweetness
- 3 large eggs Binds everything together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses a lovely aroma
Mix-ins
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled and cored) Fruity moisture and sweetness
- 1 cup chopped pecans Adds crunch and flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool before cutting into squares and serving.