Apple Brownies

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Craving something cozy, sweet, and just a little unexpected? Apple Brownies might be the best dessert you haven’t tried yet. Imagine the chewy texture of a classic blondie with the fruity brightness of fresh apples—a match made for chilly evenings or late-night sweet tooth attacks.

Unlike traditional brownies that lean heavy into chocolate, these apple-packed bars bring cinnamon warmth, nutty crunch, and soft apple chunks in every bite. They feel rustic, comforting, and just indulgent enough without being too much. Whether you’re baking for a fall gathering or just want something different in your treat rotation, Apple Brownies deliver.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into baking, it’s essential to set up your workspace with the right tools:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two – one for the wet ingredients and one for dry. This separation ensures even distribution when combining.
• Whisk & Silicone Spatula: A whisk helps incorporate air and blend wet ingredients smoothly, while a spatula is key for folding in the apples and scraping every bit of batter.
• 8×8-inch Baking Pan: This size is perfect for yielding thick, chewy brownies. Use one with straight sides for clean edges.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your pan makes it easier to lift the brownies out and prevents sticking.
• Box Grater or Small Knife: To prepare the apples, you can grate them for a softer texture or dice them for more pronounced bites.
• Cooling Rack: Allows for even air circulation so your brownies don’t get soggy as they cool.

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Ingredients for the Apple Brownies

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in bringing flavor, texture, and structure to the brownies:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the foundational structure and holds all the other components together.
• Granulated Sugar: Brings the sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of molasses-like richness for a warm, caramel-like flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates that classic fudgy texture and rich mouthfeel.
• Eggs: These bind everything together and help achieve that chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds aromatic warmth.
• Ground Cinnamon: Gives that signature cozy spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
• Baking Powder: Adds a bit of lift, so the brownies aren’t too dense.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Apples (peeled and chopped): The star ingredient, providing moisture, tartness, and bursts of fruity texture.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to contrast the soft apples.

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How To Make the Apple Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Peel and chop the apples into small cubes. Measure and set out all ingredients to ensure a smooth process.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution and avoids clumping later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a larger bowl, beat the melted butter with both sugars until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This gives your brownies a rich base.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This will help create the chewy texture you want.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold in the dry mix using a spatula. Don’t overmix — just combine until no streaks remain.

Step 6: Add Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using), making sure they’re evenly spread through the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before lifting out and slicing. This helps them set and slice cleanly.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Apple Brownies

These apple brownies are best served slightly warm, either on their own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re leaning into cozy vibes, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce takes them to dessert heaven. They also make a fantastic afternoon snack paired with coffee or tea.

To store, place cooled brownies in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, or up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that just-baked feel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! Tart apples like Granny Smith work great for a bold flavor, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp give a softer, more mellow bite.

Are these more like cake or blondies?

Apple brownies are denser and chewier than cake, with a texture more similar to blondies but packed with juicy fruit pieces.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture throughout the brownies, but you can leave the skin on for a more rustic bite.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely. A handful of white or dark chocolate chips can add a new dimension of flavor.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re done. Don’t overbake or they’ll dry out.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

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Want More Apple Dessert Ideas?

If you’re loving the cozy flavor of apples in your baking, there are a few other treats you shouldn’t miss.

You might also enjoy the Apple Enchiladas, which wrap cinnamon apples in tortillas and finish with a golden, caramelized topping. Or, for a coffee companion, the Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake offers a crumbly cinnamon topping that’s hard to resist.

Want something a bit more nostalgic? The Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples bring that Southern comfort home, and for an indulgent twist, check out the Indulgent 6-Minute Caramel Recipe — it pairs beautifully drizzled on these brownies.

For a crispier finish, serve the brownies alongside these Air Fried Potato Wedges as part of a sweet-savory brunch board.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your dessert boards for easy reference. Just hit the Pin button.

If you end up baking these Apple Brownies, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Did you go nutty? Maybe add caramel or chocolate? Leave a comment below—your twist might inspire someone else.

For more daily baking inspiration and behind-the-scenes recipes, follow along on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

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