Name: Apple Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

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Apple brownies are a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert that blends the comforting taste of apples with the dense, chewy texture of a brownie. Unlike traditional chocolate brownies, these are fruit-forward and spiced with warm flavors that make them perfect for fall—or anytime I’m craving a cozy treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these apple brownies because they’re packed with chunks of fresh apples, just the right amount of sweetness, and a hint of cinnamon. They come together quickly with simple ingredients and make my kitchen smell amazing while baking. They’re perfect for snacking, potlucks, or even breakfast with a cup of coffee. Every bite is full of apple-cinnamon goodness with a satisfying brownie-like chew. Apple Brownies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (peeled and chopped)
All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Butter (melted)
Baking powder
Salt
Cinnamon
Vanilla extract
Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, I whisk the melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
I add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, I stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
I gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
I fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
I spread the thick batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
I bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
I let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 squares and takes around 50 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking time. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings or casual snacking.

Variations

Sometimes I swap half the apples for pears to change up the flavor. I’ve also added a maple glaze on top for extra indulgence. If I want to make it more dessert-like, I serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a slightly healthier version, I reduce the sugar a bit and use whole wheat flour.

storage/reheating

I store leftover apple brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, I microwave individual slices for about 15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. They also freeze well—just wrap them individually and thaw as needed.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best?

I usually go with firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the batter.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, I’ve used a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with great results. I make sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum for structure.

Are these supposed to be fudgy like chocolate brownies?

They’re more cakey and chewy than fudgy, but they still have that dense, moist texture that reminds me of traditional brownies.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Absolutely. I’ve cut the sugar by up to 1/3 and they still turn out delicious, especially if the apples are naturally sweet.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I usually do, since it gives a smoother texture, but if I’m using thin-skinned apples and want extra fiber, I sometimes leave the peel on.

Conclusion

Apple brownies are a delicious twist on a classic dessert, bringing the warmth of spiced apples into a chewy, brownie-style bar. I love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear from the plate. Whether I’m baking for a crowd or just treating myself, these brownies are always a cozy, satisfying choice.