Name: Apple Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (133 g); 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 cup salted butter, room temperature (112 g); 1 cup sugar (200 g); 1 egg; 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g); 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g)

Say hello to a homespun treat that tastes like something straight from your favorite bakery: Apple Brownies. This bar cookie is all at once chewy, tender, and spiced just right, with sweet-tart apples and crunchy pecans in every single bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy autumn afternoon or just have a few apples you want to put to glorious use, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can make magic happen. Looking for inspiration for your next baking adventure? Keep reading for More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love and discover why these apple brownies are destined to become your new go-to treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering up these ingredients is a breeze, and each one is thoughtfully chosen for its role in flavor, texture, and appearance. With just a handful of pantry basics and some fresh apples, you’re set to create an unforgettable batch of brownies worth sharing. Let’s break down what makes each component so essential.

Butter (salted, room temp): Brings rich flavor and an irresistibly chewy texture to the brownies—using salted adds extra depth.
Sugar: Sweetens and softens the brownies, melting into the batter for that classic bar texture.
Egg: Binds everything together and provides a bit of loft and tenderness.
All purpose flour: The structure and foundation of your bars—don’t substitute with cake or bread flour for this recipe.
Baking powder: Gives a gentle rise, so your bars don’t turn out too dense.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
Cinnamon: The cozy spice that pairs perfectly with apple and brings warmth to every bite.
Chopped apple pieces: Use a crisp, tart variety for bright flavor and tender bites throughout the brownies.
Toasted pecan pieces: Toasting adds nutty crunch and a lot of flavor, making these bars feel extra special.

How to Make Apple Brownies

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Start by warming a small pan over medium-low heat. Add your pecan pieces and toast them gently, shaking the pan every so often until they become fragrant and just a shade darker. This quick step is key—it coaxes out oils and imparts extra richness. Set them aside to cool, and get ready to enjoy how much it elevates your apple brownies.

Step 2: Prep Your Apples

Peel, core, and chop your apples into small half-inch chunks. The smaller size helps them soften into tender pockets throughout the brownies without turning mushy. The fresh apples are the star here, so don’t skip on using a nice, crisp variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for bright, tangy notes.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Grab a medium mixing bowl and cream the room temperature butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step adds air, setting the stage for a soft, chewy crumb. A hand mixer or a sturdy spoon both work—just make sure your butter is soft enough to combine easily.

Step 4: Add the Egg

Crack in your egg and mix again until the batter is beautifully smooth, pale, and very fluffy. This is where your batter starts looking irresistible—but there’s still more flavor to come!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix

Sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make brownies tough. You’ll notice the fragrant aroma of cinnamon coming alive—this is always the moment you know it’s going to be special.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Pecans

Add those chopped apples and cooled pecans right into the bowl. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. The batter will look sticky and wetter than classic brownie batter—that’s perfect! The apples will release moisture as they bake and keep the bars tender.

Step 7: Bake

Butter or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment. Pour in the batter and gently spread it out evenly—it will be thick, but trust the process. Bake at 350℉ for 30-45 minutes, keeping an eye out for a golden brown top and a set center. In most ovens, about 35 minutes is just right. The aroma is pure comfort!

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove your apple brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This makes slicing a breeze and helps the flavors come together. Cut into 9 generous squares and take in the joy of homemade bar cookies at their finest. For More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love, exploring new add-ins and fruit combos can be a great next step!

How to Serve Apple Brownies

Garnishes

Sprinkle your apple brownies with a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish, or serve each square with a hearty scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling truly decadent. A handful of extra toasted pecans on top adds a beautiful crunch and color, making these brownies look as inviting as they taste.

Side Dishes

Pair these apple brownies with a cup of strong coffee, spicy chai, or even a glass of cold milk—simple, cozy choices that highlight the warm spices and nuts. For a seasonal twist, try serving with roasted pears or a cinnamon-laced fruit salad on the side. These brownies are laid-back enough for after-school snacking, but elegant enough for a plated dessert at the end of a dinner party among More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer slices of apple brownie with ice cream and caramel in a glass for an easy parfait, or cut brownies into bite-sized cubes for a sweet grazing board. For celebrations and gatherings, stack the brownies on a tiered stand, fanning out apple slices and cinnamon sticks as a nod to the flavors inside—an easy way to wow friends with More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover apple brownies in an airtight container at room temperature; they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to three days. The apples help keep the bars moist, so they’re every bit as delightful on day two as those first moments out of the oven.

Freezing

To freeze, let the brownies cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. Stored this way, they’ll taste incredible for up to two months. Just thaw on the counter before serving, and you’ll have a ready-made treat on hand for whenever you need a taste of home or inspiration for More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love.

Reheating

If you love your apple brownies warm, simply pop a square in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The flavors become extra aromatic, making it feel as if they’re freshly baked all over again. Top with ice cream for that gooey, melty moment everyone loves.

FAQs

Can I use different apples in this brownie recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice balance, any crisp variety—such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala—will work wonders. Mixing types even brings subtle layers of apple flavor, perfect for More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love.

What’s the best way to toast the pecan pieces?

A dry skillet on medium-low heat is ideal. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally; you want them warm and fragrant but not burned. This little extra step makes the nuts especially tasty and memorable.

Do I have to peel the apples?

For the classic texture and look, peeling is recommended, but if you prefer a rustic feel and some extra nutrients, you can leave the skins on. Just be sure to chop them finely for even baking.

Can these brownies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, and keep an eye on baking times. They’re just as chewy and flavorful—and you’ll be adding a gluten-free star to your lineup of More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

They’re ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Every oven is a touch different, so begin checking at the 30-minute mark for best results.

Final Thoughts

Let the aroma of cinnamon and apples fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia as you bake these apple brownies. I hope you’ll try this recipe and explore even more delicious twists—there’s always room on the table for More Brownies & Bars recipes you’ll love!