These Apple Brownies are a warm and tasty treat that mixes sweet apples with rich chocolate. They’re soft, chewy, and perfect for sharing with friends or family!
Baking these brownies fills the house with a lovely smell—it’s hard not to sneak a taste! I love enjoying them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it even better. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the brownies. You can replace it with a gluten-free blend if needed. I’ve tried different flours, and they all work surprisingly well!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over the saltiness. However, coconut oil can be a great vegan substitute. Just melt it and use it in the same amount.
Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and a rich flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, try using white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of sugar) or use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Apples: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for balance, like Granny Smith and Fuji. If you’re out of fresh apples, you can use unsweetened applesauce (1/2 cup for every cup of chopped apples).
Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and flavor. If you want a bit of zest, consider adding a pinch of ginger or cloves! Feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Brownies Are Moist and Chewy?
To get that perfect moist and chewy texture, focus on not overmixing the batter. Start by mixing the wet ingredients until well combined. When you add the dry ingredients, stir just until they disappear. This avoids developing too much gluten, which can make brownies tough.
- Mix the melted butter and sugar thoroughly for a fluffy mix.
- When folding in the apples, be gentle to keep the airiness of the batter.
- Don’t forget to check the brownies a few minutes before the suggested bake time to avoid overbaking.
Apple Brownies Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples, a mixture of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Fuji)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, plus additional time for cooling. Overall, you’ll spend about 45-50 minutes before you can dig in and enjoy these delicious apple brownies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure even baking. While the oven is heating, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This makes for easy removal later!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This will be your dry mix that adds wonderful flavor. Once mixed, set this bowl aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, pour in the melted butter and add the packed brown sugar. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Then, crack in the egg and add the vanilla extract, whisking until it’s all blended together nicely.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies tough.
5. Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in the chopped apples, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. These sweet chunks will make your brownies extra special!
6. Pour and Spread:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. It’s ready to go into the oven!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the top to be set and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
8. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important for achieving the right texture!
9. Dust and Serve:
When the brownies are cool, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Enjoy your delicious Apple Brownies!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! Mixing tart and sweet apples is ideal, but you can use any variety you like. Granny Smith, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or even Gala apples work well. Just make sure they’re peeled and chopped for the best texture in the brownies.
Can I Substitute the Butter?
Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just melt it and use it in the same amount for similar results.
How Do I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze well—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add great texture, and chocolate chips can enhance the flavor. Just fold in about 1/2 cup along with the apples for an extra special treat!
