These chewy apple brownies are a sweet treat with a delightful twist! Packed with fresh apples and a hint of cinnamon, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Let’s be real, who can resist the smell of apples baking? I love serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. It’s a cozy dessert that feels like a hug! 🍏🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is key for richness. You can use margarine or coconut oil if you’d like a dairy-free option. I personally stick with unsalted butter for the best flavor.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and a nice caramel flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar, but consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic that deep taste.
Apples: Any apple variety works here, but I love using Granny Smith for their tartness. If you want a sweeter brownie, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are great alternatives.
Cinnamon: This spice creates warmth and flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it for nutmeg or even pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist!
How Do I Ensure My Apple Brownies Stay Moist and Chewy?
To keep your brownies chewy, it’s essential not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Here are some tips:
- Mix until just combined; a few flour pockets are okay.
- Don’t overbake; check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
- Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing for extra moisture retention.
This way, your apple brownies come out soft and satisfying every time! Enjoy your baking! 🍏✨
Apple Brownies Dessert
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. Plus, you should allow some extra time for cooling before serving. Altogether, plan for about 1 hour if you include cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, you can prepare your baking pan. Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed brown sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Then, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely flavor!
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step makes sure everything is evenly combined and helps avoid lumps.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Carefully add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix! A few flour pockets are fine.
5. Add the Apples:
Now for the fun part! Gently fold in the diced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will give your brownies a delightful apple flavor and texture.
6. Pour and Spread:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, making sure it reaches the corners.
7. Bake:
Place your brownie mix in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them! When they’re done, the top should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and Dust:
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack. After about 20-30 minutes or when they’re cool enough to handle, dust the top with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar.
9. Serve:
Slice the brownies into squares and serve warm. For a special treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Enjoy every bite of these chewy, apple-infused delights!
These apple brownies are sure to be a hit—enjoy making and sharing this delicious dessert!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can use any apple variety you prefer. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples are great options for added sweetness.
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add 1/2 teaspoon to help with the texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly!
What Can I Do If My Brownies Are Overbaked?
If your brownies come out a bit dry, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to add moisture back to the dish. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance their flavor!
