Apple Brownies

Apple brownies first happened in my kitchen by complete accident when I had a craving for brownies but also had a couple of apples I didn’t want to waste. I chopped them up and folded them into my classic chocolate batter just to see what would happen and the result completely blew me away. That gooey fudgy bite mixed with juicy apple chunks became an instant favorite.

Since then I’ve made this apple brownies recipe more times than I can count because it gives me the best of both worlds. The rich cocoa flavor blends beautifully with the soft tartness of baked apples and the crackly top adds just the right amount of texture. It’s a comforting treat that tastes like fall and chocolate had a delicious baby.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Apples – Bring natural sweetness and moisture to each bite
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Gives the brownies that deep rich chocolate flavor
• All-purpose flour – Binds the mixture into a classic chewy brownie texture
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps form that signature brownie top
• Eggs – Add structure and richness to the mix
• Unsalted butter – Makes the brownies moist and tender
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the chocolate and apple flavors
• Baking powder – Just a touch to help lift the dense batter slightly
• Cinnamon – Adds a subtle warmth that complements the apples
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing Bowls – I use one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry
• Whisk & Spatula – The whisk helps me blend the eggs and sugar smoothly while the spatula is perfect for folding in the apples
• Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping the apples into small pieces
• Baking Pan – I use an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment for easy lifting
• Oven – For baking these rich brownies to gooey perfection
• Cooling Rack – Helps the brownies set and cool evenly before slicing

Instructions

Step 1:

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line my baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2:

Next I peel and dice the apples into small chunks and sprinkle them with a little cinnamon. This adds extra flavor and makes them pop in every bite.

Step 3:

In a large mixing bowl I whisk the melted butter and sugar together until smooth. Then I add the eggs and vanilla extract and whisk again until fully combined.

Step 4:

In another bowl I mix the flour cocoa powder baking powder and salt. I gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined.

Step 5:

I fold in the apple chunks gently making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6:

I pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. I like to press a few apple slices on top for a pretty look before baking.

Step 7:

The brownies go into the oven for 30 to 35 minutes. I check them by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8:

Once they’re out of the oven I let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips

I like using tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast but sweeter ones like Fuji also work well

If you want an extra gooey center bake for a minute or two less

For a richer flavor I sometimes use browned butter

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking adds a nice finish

Ways to Serve

Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Drizzled with caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert

Packed in lunchboxes as a sweet surprise

With a hot cup of coffee or chai on a chilly afternoon

Cut into mini bites for potlucks or parties

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Apple Brownies without cocoa powder?

Yes you can leave out the cocoa and they’ll be more like apple blondies which are equally delicious.

How should I store these Apple Brownies?

I keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze Apple Brownies?

Absolutely. I wrap them tightly in plastic and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. I thaw them at room temperature before serving.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you fall in love with these apple brownies just like I did! They’re a cozy twist on a chocolate classic and always hit the spot. If you give them a try let me know how they turned out and don’t forget to share your creative variations too!

Happy Cooking!

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