As the crisp air settles in and leaves start their dance in vibrant shades, I find myself reaching for cozy recipes that capture the essence of fall. Enter my Fudgy Easy Apple Brownies, a delightful blend of rich chocolate brownie texture infused with the sweetness of apples and warm spices. These treats not only offer a quick and simple way to indulge in autumn flavors but also bring a crowd-pleasing charm to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to become a beloved staple. Curious about how to whip up this seasonal delight? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why are Easy Apple Brownies a Must-Try? Irresistible flavors: The fusion of rich chocolate and sweet apples creates a taste sensation that’s simply heaven. Cozy dessert: Perfect for enjoying around the fireplace or impressing friends at your next gathering! Quick prep time: Whip these up in under an hour, making them a go-to option for busy fall days. Versatile: Easily customize with nuts or chocolate chips to match your taste preferences. Nutrient boost: Thanks to the addition of apples, these brownies offer a sweet treat with added fiber! For more apple-inspired recipes, don’t miss my delicious Oatmeal Apple Pancakes or try a slice of Roasted Apple Bread for an extra autumn kick! Easy Apple Brownies Ingredients For the Brownie Batter • Applesauce – Adds moisture and sweetness to brownies; unsweetened works well if you’re watching sugar. • Brown Sugar – Provides deep, caramel-like sweetness; both light and dark varieties are perfect here. • Granulated Sugar – Increases sweetness and balances flavors; consider using coconut sugar for a healthier twist. • Vegetable Oil – Keeps the brownies moist; melted coconut oil can add a delightful flavor. • Eggs – Acts as a binder and provides structure; flax eggs are a great vegan substitute. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor complexity; almond extract can be a wonderful swap. • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. • Cocoa Powder – Contributes rich chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for the best results. • Baking Soda – Helps leaven the brownies; avoid substituting with baking powder as it affects texture. • Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors. • Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a fall taste; nutmeg can be used for a different spice note. For the Apple Addition • Diced Apples – Provides texture and natural sweetness; opt for firm varieties for the best results. • Chopped Nuts (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch; choose walnuts, pecans, or skip entirely based on your preference. These Easy Apple Brownies are a truly scrumptious treat, perfect for fall baking and making cherished memories with loved ones! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Apple Brownies Perfect For Fall Baking Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. While it heats, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This preparation step is essential for the fudgy Easy Apple Brownies to emerge perfectly baked and ready to indulge in. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of applesauce, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended, forming a smooth mixture that looks glossy. This step adds moisture and helps create the rich texture in your Easy Apple Brownies. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir gently until the dry ingredients are well mixed, and then you’re ready to bring the wet and dry mixtures together for your delectable brownies. Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your Easy Apple Brownies fudgy and moist. The batter should be thick and shiny with no dry flour visible, inviting you to move onto the next delicious step. Step 5: Add Apples and Optional Nuts Gently fold in 1 to 1 1/2 cups of diced apples and any optional chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into your brownie batter. Ensure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, as they will add delightful texture and sweetness. This is where the fall flavors truly begin to shine! Step 6: Bake the Brownies Pour your prepared batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for uniform baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the brownies should look set on the edges with a slightly soft center, and a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After slightly cooling, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut your Easy Apple Brownies into squares and get ready to enjoy these delightful treats, perfect for sharing or savoring alone! What to Serve with Easy Apple Brownies As the sweet aroma of apple-infused chocolate wafts through your kitchen, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your fall dessert experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the fudgy texture of the brownies, providing a creamy and cool contrast. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the brownies adds a delightful layer of sweetness that complements the apples beautifully. A touch of sea salt can amplify this treat even more! Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping balances the rich chocolate flavor and adds a festive touch when served at gatherings. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee by your side enhances the chocolate notes while elevating your dessert moment to cozy heights. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo the flavors in the brownies, creating a comforting and aromatic experience that’s perfect for fall. Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling some crunchy walnuts or pecans on top brings a textural contrast, adding delightful crunch and nuttiness to your sweet treat. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate on top offers an extra layer of indulgence that satisfies any chocolate lover’s cravings. Enjoying your Easy Apple Brownies as part of a well-rounded spread will surely make your fall baking all the more memorable! Storage Tips for Easy Apple Brownies Room Temperature: Store your Easy Apple Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their decadent fudgy texture. Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the brownies in a sealed container. They’ll last up to 5 days while keeping that delightful moisture. Freezer: To enjoy these treats later, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—simply thaw before serving! Reheating: Warm your brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel before enjoying. Easy Apple Brownies Perfect For Fall Baking Feel free to get creative and make these Easy Apple Brownies your own with simple twists and substitutions! Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free flour blend to ensure a deliciously fudgy brownie without the gluten. Your friends won’t even notice the difference! Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan-friendly version. The brownies will remain just as rich and satisfying. Nut-Free: Omit nuts altogether or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the worry of allergies. Chocolate Chip Boost: Stir in a cup of chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness that’ll delight any chocolate lover. It’s an easy way to amplify the indulgence! Cinnamon Alternatives: Swap ground cinnamon with ground ginger or allspice for an interesting flavor profile that adds a kick of warmth reminiscent of fall spices. For even more apple adventures, don’t miss out on my tempting Cranberry Apple Slaw or bake up a loaf of Roasted Apple Bread to complement your fall dessert table! Apple Varietals: Change up the flavor by using different apple varieties. Sweet Fuji or tart Granny Smith apples bring their unique sweetness and tanginess to the brownies – perfect for personalizing your treat! Dive into the world of flavors and make these Easy Apple Brownies a special creation just for you and your loved ones! Tips for the Best Easy Apple Brownies Don’t Overmix: Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough brownies; stir just until combined to keep the texture fudgy. Choose Firm Apples: Opt for firmer apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance in your Easy Apple Brownies. Taste Test Spices: Adjust the cinnamon or try adding nutmeg for a unique twist, but remember to start small and adjust to your preference. Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs—if it comes out clean, you may have overbaked! Allow to Sit: For enhanced flavor, let your brownies rest overnight. The ingredients meld together beautifully, creating an even richer taste. Store Correctly: To keep your Easy Apple Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer storage. Make Ahead Options These Easy Apple Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify their baking process! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, you can dice the apples and mix them in a separate bowl, keeping them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the chilled batter into the prepared baking pan and bake as usual. This strategy not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen, ensuring your brownies taste just as delicious while being a true crowd-pleaser! Easy Apple Brownies Recipe FAQs What type of apples should I use for the best results? Opt for firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness in your Easy Apple Brownies. How should I store my Easy Apple Brownies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the brownies in a sealed container, where they’ll last up to 5 days while retaining their moisture. Can I freeze the brownies? Absolutely! To freeze your Easy Apple Brownies, first, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a cozy treat. What if my brownies are too dry? If you find your Easy Apple Brownies are drier than expected, it could be due to overbaking. Always check for doneness around the 25-minute mark; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. For future bakes, you can slightly reduce the baking time or consider adding a bit more applesauce for moisture. Are there any dietary considerations for these brownies? These brownies can be easily modified to cater to different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If nut allergies are a concern, feel free to omit the nuts altogether or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Easy Apple Brownies Perfect For Fall Baking Bliss Indulge in these Easy Apple Brownies, a delightful blend of rich chocolate and sweet apples, perfect for fall baking. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownie Batter1 cup applesauce unsweetened works well if you're watching sugar1 cup brown sugar light or dark varieties1/2 cup granulated sugar consider using coconut sugar for a healthier twist1/2 cup vegetable oil melted coconut oil can add flavor2 large eggs flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute1 teaspoon vanilla extract almond extract can be substituted1 cup all-purpose flour use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version1/2 cup cocoa powder ensure it's unsweetened1 teaspoon baking soda do not substitute with baking powder1/4 teaspoon salt balances sweetness1 teaspoon ground cinnamon nutmeg can be used for a different spice noteFor the Apple Addition1 to 1 1/2 cups diced apples opt for firm varieties1 cup chopped nuts optional; choose walnuts or pecans Equipment 9×13-inch baking panMixing bowlWhiskSpatula Method InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan.In a large mixing bowl, combine applesauce, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.Gently fold in the diced apples and optional nuts into the brownie batter.Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg NotesTo keep your Easy Apple Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They're best enjoyed with loved ones! Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
