You know that feeling when the scent of cinnamon and warm apples fills your kitchen? That unmistakable aroma that makes everything feel just a bit more comforting? Apple brownies do just that. They’re your answer to chilly afternoons, spontaneous baking urges, or the need for a simple dessert that leaves a lasting impression. With a chewy bite and soft apple chunks nestled inside, these bars are more than just a treat—they’re a hug in dessert form.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Brownies Recipe
Baking apple brownies isn’t just about the end result—it’s about the experience, the aroma, and the anticipation as they bake. Here’s why you’ll reach for this recipe again and again:
- Incredible texture: Chewy like a brownie, but lighter thanks to the apples
- Naturally sweet: Apples add moisture and depth without needing too much sugar
- One-bowl ease: Simple prep means less time cleaning and more time enjoying
- Seasonless flavor: While they’re perfect for fall, apple brownies are welcome any time
- Great for sharing: These cut beautifully and hold their shape, making them perfect for gatherings
Ingredients
You won’t need anything fancy to make these apple brownies. Just the essentials from your pantry and a couple of fresh apples.
All-purpose flour – Gives the apple brownies their structure while keeping them soft and chewy.
Baking powder and baking soda – Help the brownies rise just a bit without losing their dense, fudgy texture.
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and rich flavor. You can use salted butter but reduce the added salt.
Brown sugar – Adds sweetness, moisture, and a slight caramel taste that pairs well with apples.
Egg – Holds everything together and helps give the brownies their chewy bite.
Vanilla extract – Adds a warm flavor that works perfectly with the apples.
Chopped apples – The star of the recipe. Use fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
How to Make Apple Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Combine your dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give it a good whisk to distribute everything evenly.
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is glossy.
Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients gently. You don’t want to overmix—just combine until the flour disappears.
Add the chopped apples (and any optional add-ins), gently folding them into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Let cool in the pan, then slice into squares.
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Brownies
Even if you’re new to baking, these tips will help you get it just right:
Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn to balance the sweetness.
Melt your butter completely but don’t let it boil—this helps with smooth mixing.
Chop apples evenly for consistent texture throughout the bars.
Don’t overbake. Apple brownies should be moist in the center.
Let them rest before cutting. This helps them set up nicely and makes slicing cleaner.
Easy Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun ways to tweak this classic:
Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water).
Gluten-free twist: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Apple blondies: Skip the cinnamon and stir in some white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast.
Add extra spice: Mix in a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for deeper warmth.
How to Serve Apple Brownies
You have plenty of ways to enjoy these:
Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a simple finish
Drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent bite
Pack them in lunchboxes for a midday pick-me-up
Wrap and gift them during the holiday season
More brownie recipes you will love!
FAQ – All About Apple Brownies
Can I use any kind of apple for apple brownies?
You can, but tart varieties like Granny Smith hold up best during baking and offer a good balance to the sweetness.
How do I store apple brownies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge.
Can apple brownies be frozen?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer with parchment paper between bars. They’ll keep well for up to two months.
Are apple brownies chewy or cakey?
They’re meant to be chewy, not cakey. The apples keep them moist while the brown sugar gives a chewy texture.
Why are my apple brownies soggy?
That often happens when the apples are too juicy or if they’re underbaked. Make sure you use firm apples and check doneness before removing from the oven.
Apple Brownies
Equipment
- 8×8 Baking Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
Apple Brownies Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped apples peeled and diced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix well.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Fold in the chopped apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.