Apple Brownies: Easy Fall Dessert

Ever dreamt of a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall? These Apple Brownies are your answer! Fudgy brownies meet tender, caramelized apples in this easy recipe, ideal for a cozy night in or a delightful treat for friends and family. Inspired by classic comfort baking, these apple brownies are a guaranteed hit. Let’s bake some magic!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Brownies Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these apple brownies! Here’s why:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour!
• Fudgy Texture: The perfect brownie base.
• Caramelized Apples: Sweet and tender topping.
• Fall Flavors: Cinnamon and apple create a cozy taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, readily available ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
• Less Mess: One-pan baking makes cleanup a breeze.
• Irresistible Aroma: Your kitchen will smell divine!

Ingredients Needed for Delicious Apple Brownies

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful apple brownies. Don’t forget to check your pantry!

For the Brownies:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (113g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100g)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (90g)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (40g) – Opt for Dutch-processed for a richer flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (1g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g)

For the Apple Topping:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced – (About 300g). Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2g) – Toast lightly in a dry pan for enhanced aroma.

Ingredient Tip: For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh, crisp apples. You can find great apples at your local farmers’ market!

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these essentials before you start baking!

• 8×8 inch baking pan: Ensures even baking and perfect brownie thickness.
• Large bowl: For mixing the brownie batter.
• Small bowl: For whisking together the dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
• Skillet: For caramelizing the apples.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!

Optional: A rubber spatula helps scrape down the sides of the bowl for even mixing.

Recipe Details: Apple Brownies at a Glance

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

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• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 9 squares
• Difficulty: Easy

Scale up the recipe for a larger crowd or halve it for a smaller treat! These apple brownies are incredibly versatile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Apple Brownies

Follow these simple steps for delicious apple brownies every time!

Step 1: Get Ready to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. This is a crucial step for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until well combined, creating a smooth base for your brownies.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next for a consistent batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing leads to tough brownies.

Step 6: Caramelize the Apples

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, 1/4 cup of sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 7: Assemble the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread the apple mixture evenly over the top of the brownie batter, ensuring every bite has the perfect apple-brownie ratio.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Don’t overbake, or they’ll be dry!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Patience is key! This prevents them from crumbling.

CHECK OUT: Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat – For another apple-infused delight!

Tips for Success: Expert Baking Advice

Here are some tips to ensure your apple brownies are a smashing success!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough brownies.
• Use room temperature eggs: They incorporate more easily into the batter.
• Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the brownies and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Let them cool completely: This allows the brownies to set properly, making them easier to cut.
• Use parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Variations & Substitutions for Custom Apple Brownies

Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations:

• Add nuts: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added crunch.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the baked brownies for extra sweetness.
• Chocolate chips: Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an even more decadent treat.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the apple topping for a warmer flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Apple Brownies

Elevate your apple brownie experience with these serving suggestions:

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm brownie and apples.
• Whipped cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a touch of elegance.
• Warm apple cider: A perfect fall beverage to enjoy alongside your brownies.
• Coffee or tea: A comforting combination for any time of day.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle extra caramel for an indulgent treat.

Health Benefits of Apple Brownies

While brownies are a treat, this recipe includes beneficial ingredients:

• Apples: Provide fiber and vitamins.
• Cocoa powder: Contains antioxidants.
• Cinnamon: Has anti-inflammatory properties.

Remember, moderation is key! Enjoy these brownies as part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Maximize the deliciousness of your apple brownies with these storage tips:

• Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pro Tip: Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Brownies

Here are some common questions answered to help you bake with confidence:

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples all work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite!

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These brownies can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container.

How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the diced apples with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay suspended.

Can I add a glaze to these brownies?

Yes! A simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting would be delicious additions.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can make your own brown sugar by mixing granulated sugar with molasses. Use 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of granulated sugar.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with moist crumbs attached, they’re done. Be careful not to overbake!

Nutritional Information for Apple Brownies

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 22g
• Protein: 3g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore This Fall

Craving more fall-inspired treats? Check out these delicious recipes:

• Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat – A classic fall favorite.
• Delectable Maple Apple Crisp – Warm and comforting with a hint of maple.
• Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls – The ultimate cozy breakfast or dessert.

Conclusion

These Apple Brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the fudgy goodness of brownies with the sweet, comforting flavors of fall. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whip up a batch tonight – and don’t forget to share your creations with us!

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