Apple Brownies

Apple Brownies are moist and chewy blondies stuffed full of spiced apples, topped with a sweet maple glaze. The most delicious way to enjoy apples all year long!

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Table of Contents

Apple Brownies Ingredients
How To Make This Apple Brownies Recipe
Maple Apple Brownies Substitutions and Additions
Troubleshooting
How To Serve Our Maple Brownies Recipe
How To Store Apple Brownies With Maple Glaze
Why These Easy Apple Brownies Are The Best
Apple Brownies Frequently Asked Questions
More Apple Recipes You’ll Love
JUMP TO RECIPE
Even More Recipes You’ll Love

Apple brownies are the perfect blend of classic brownie goodness with a refreshing twist of apples. This delightful dessert combines the chewy, rich texture you love in a brownie with the sweet, spiced flavor of fresh apples.

Apple Brownies stacked on top of each other

Every bite delivers a moist and flavorful experience that feels like fall, whether enjoyed as a midday treat or a cozy after-dinner dessert. The addition of apples takes these brownies to a whole new level, making them a must-try for anyone looking to mix up their usual dessert routine.

Apple Brownies Ingredients

Apple Brownies raw ingredients that are labeled

You’re about to transform your kitchen into a cozy haven with this homemade brownie recipe. With the comforting aroma of cinnamon and the sweet-tart flavor of honeycrisp apples, these brownies are the ultimate treat for any occasion.

You’ll Need:

For the Apples:

2½ cups peeled & diced (½-¾-inch pieces) Honeycrisp apples
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Brownie Batter:

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1½ cups light brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon maple extract
2 large eggs, room temperature

For the Maple Glaze:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
½ teaspoon maple extract
⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon salt
1½ cups powdered sugar

How To Make This Apple Brownies Recipe

To make this easy recipe for apple brownies, you’ll start by cooking together an apple reduction which will be mixed into your brownies. Then, you’ll make the brownie batter and bake it all together. Finally, you’ll whip up a simple homemade maple glaze for the top.

We’ve included plenty of tips throughout the post to keep you on track, and clear photos for you to follow every step of the way.

STEP ONE: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a nine by nine inch brownie pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Lay a piece of parchment in the pan with a bit hanging over the sides to help you lift them from the pan.

PRO TIP:

Spraying your pan well and using parchment paper will prevent your apple brownies from burning and help them bake up with chewy edges.

STEP TWO: In a medium skillet, add the small pieces of fresh apples, granulated sugar, and cinnamon, and cook over medium heat, stirring to combine. Cook for five to seven minutes.

Stir often so the sugars don’t burn, and until the apples have softened but still hold their shape. The sugars and cinnamon should caramelized and made a light, sweet coating on the apples.

Remove the apples from the heat and allow them to cool to room temperature while you prepare the brownie batter.

fresh apples, granulated sugar, and cinnamon cooked in a skillet

STEP THREE: In a small bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

STEP FOUR: In a separate bowl, add the light brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract. Using a hand-held mixer on medium-low speed, beat until the butter and brown sugar are fully incorporated.

light brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract added to a bowl

STEP FIVE: Add the eggs to the bowl and beat until they’re fully combined and the mixture looks smooth and fluffy.

STEP SIX: Add the flour mixture to the large bowl of wet ingredients, and use a rubber spatula to gently fold all the ingredients together just until all the flour is incorporated and no lumps of flour remain in the batter.

PRO TIP:

You can use a spatula to gently press the mixture on the sides of the bowl to break up the flour pieces.

flour mixture added to the large bowl of wet ingredients

STEP SEVEN: Remove the fully cooled apples from the skillet using a slotted spoon. Leave as much of the excess liquids in the pan as possible, because the excess liquid will alter the texture of the baked apple brownies if it’s added to the batter.

STEP EIGHT: Add the apples to the bowl containing the batter and carefully fold them in. Try to distribute them as evenly as possible.

A large rubber spatula works great for this.

apples added to the bowl containing the batter

STEP NINE: Spread the apple brownie mixture into an even layer in the prepared baking dish.

STEP TEN: Bake for 25 – 30 minutes, until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs.

STEP ELEVEN: Remove the apple brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the counter. Meanwhile, prepare the maple glaze.

STEP TWELVE: To make the glaze, add the unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, maple extract, cinnamon, and salt to a three quart saucepan. Heat over medium heat for a few minutes while whisking constantly, just until the butter melts and the ingredients are fully combined.

When the mixture starts to lightly bubble around the edges, remove it from the heat.

STEP THIRTEEN: Add the sifted powdered sugar to the saucepan. Whisk it into the butter mixture until all the powdered sugar has been fully incorporated, and the glaze is smooth.

powdered sugar shifted into the saucepan

STEP FOURTEEN: Slowly pour the maple glaze evenly over the apple brownies once they’re fully cooled. Spread the glaze so that it evenly covers the entire surface of the brownies.

maple glaze poured evenly over the apple brownies

STEP FIFTEEN: Allow the brownies to sit at room temperature until the glaze has firmed up and set completely. Then, slice and serve!

Maple Apple Brownies Substitutions and Additions

Apples: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can substitute Honeycrisp apples with Gala or Pink Lady apples. For a tart taste, Granny Smith apples are a great alternative.

Raisins or Dried Cranberries: You can add half of a cup of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.

Granulated Sugar: You can use coconut sugar or brown sugar as a substitute for granulated sugar. Keep in mind that these sugars may alter the color and taste slightly.

Ground Cinnamon: Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile of your brownies. Nutmeg, ginger, or allspice can add a warm and spicy kick, while cardamom or cloves can bring a unique and exotic twist.

You can also add a pinch of ground ginger for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the apples.

Extract: You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra depth of flavor.

Troubleshooting

We repeatedly tested the recipe for this sweet treat to bake up perfectly in your home kitchen. However, since appliances and ingredients can vary, we’ve included our best tips to help you along the way:

If you cut the apples a bit ahead of time, stir your apple pieces with a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning.
Be careful not to overmix your batter. The gently mixed batter is what gives your brownies their perfect chewy texture.
Near the end of the bake time, stay close to your oven. These brownies need to come out of the oven promptly. That’s what gives them their moist brownie base, and prevents them from becoming dry.
If your maple glaze is too thick to pour over the brownies, you can fix it by stirring in a bit more maple syrup to thin it out. If it’s to thin, you can whisk in a bit more powdered sugar.

How To Serve Our Maple Brownies Recipe

Maple brownies are definitely a fall favorite, but they’re easy to enjoy any time of year. It’s one of those dessert recipes that’s easy to serve at every event, from family gatherings to holidays, to parties. They also make a perfect afternoon snack.

Here are our favorite ways to serve them:

Serve a tasty piece of your apple brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The warm, gooey brownies pair so well with the cold, creamy ice cream.

For a cozy autumn brunch, slice the apple brownies into smaller squares and arrange them on a platter alongside freshly brewed coffee and spiced apple cider.

Elevate your dessert game by serving the apple brownies alongside a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.

These cinnamon apple brownies are a great treat for any event that takes place during apple season. Serve with other yummy and easy apple recipes! We’re fond of apple dapple cake, homemade apple chips (perfect for a harvest party), or these rich and delicious apple cheesecake bars.

MORE BROWNIE RECIPES

Dessert Bars

Nutella Brownies

Dessert Bars

Peanut Butter Brownies

How To Store Apple Brownies With Maple Glaze

MAKE AHEAD: If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the apple brownie mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap so it doesn’t dry out. When you’re ready to bake, remove the pan from the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then bake according to the recipe instructions.

IN THE FRIDGE: After baking, allow the apple brownies to cool completely to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

IN THE FREEZER: To freeze the apple brownies, first, ensure they are completely cooled to room temperature. Then, individually wrap each brownie in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw the brownies overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Why These Easy Apple Brownies Are The Best

There’s something undeniably special about these apple brownies. Here’s why we’re positive you’re going to love them as much as we do:

Unique Flavor: This apple brownie recipe is different than a traditional brownie recipe, with its moist, spiced apple-filled batter. The maple glaze is the perfect touch!

Perfect Texture: The apple brownie layer is so flavorful and moist, and the glaze adds a sugary sweet and unexpectedly yummy topping.

Family Favorite: Kids love apples, and they’ll go crazy for this apple dessert! But the flavors are ideal for adult gatherings and holidays, too.

Apple Brownies Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double the recipe to make more brownies?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch of brownies. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly and use a larger baking dish.

Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and flavor to these apple brownies.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness. However, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and moisture of the brownies.

Can I use vegetable oil instead of melted butter?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of vegetable oil for melted butter in this recipe.

Can I use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! You can substitute gluten-free flour in a 1:1 ratio for all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I use any type of apple for the brownies?

Yes, you can use any variety of apples for this recipe.

These Apple Brownies are a welcomed twist on traditional brownies, blending the sweetness of apples with the sweetness of maple syrup. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

a bunch of Apple Brownies on a wooden board

More Apple Recipes You’ll Love

Apple Brownies

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Apple Brownies are moist and chewy blondies stuffed full of spiced apples, topped with a sweet maple glaze. The most delicious way to enjoy apples all year long!

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Servings

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Ingredients

For the Apples

2½ cups Honeycrisp apples, peeled & diced into ½ to ¾-inch pieces
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Brownie Batter

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1½ cups light brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon maple extract
2 large eggs, room temperature

For the Maple Glaze

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
½ teaspoon maple extract
⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon salt
1½ cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with baker’s spray and line with parchment paper. Be sure to leave enough of the parchment paper overhanging the sides to make lifting the apple brownies out of the pan easier once cooled.

To Make the Apples

Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, and cinnamon to a medium skillet over medium heat. Stir to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often so the sugars don’t burn, until the apples have softened but still hold their shape and the sugars and cinnamon have caramelized and made a light, sweet coating on the apples. Remove from the heat and allow the apples to cool to room temperature while you prepare the brownie batter.

To Make the Brownies

In a small bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Add the light brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract to a large mixing bowl to make the brownie batter. Using a electric mixer, on medium-low speed, beat for 1-2 minutes or until the butter and brown sugar are fully incorporated.
Add the eggs to the bowl and beat for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until fully combined and the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
Add the flour mixture to the bowl of wet ingredients, and using a rubber spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together just until all the flour is incorporated and no lumps of flour remain in the batter.
Remove the cooked and cooled apples from the skillet using a slotted spoon. Make sure you leave as much of the excess liquids in the pan as the excess liquid will alter the texture of the baked apple brownies if added to the batter.
Add the apples to the brownie batter and carefully fold them into the batter, making sure that they are evenly distributed. A large rubber spatula works great for this.
Spread the apple brownie mixture into an even layer in the prepared 9×13 baking pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs.
Remove the apple brownies from the oven and let them cool completely on the counter while preparing the maple glaze.

To Make the Glaze

Add to a 3-quart saucepan, over medium heat, the unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, maple extract, cinnamon and salt. Heat for 2-3 minutes while whisking constantly, just until the butter has melted and the ingredients are fully combined. The mixture should just start to lightly bubble around the edges. Remove from the heat.
Add the sifted powdered sugar to the saucepan and whisk until all the powdered sugar has been fully incorporated and the glaze is smooth.
Slowly pour the maple glaze evenly over the cooled apple brownies. Be sure to spread the glaze so that it evenly covers the entire surface of the brownies.

Notes

Allow the brownies to sit at room temperature until the glaze has firmed up and set completely before slicing and serving the apple brownies
If you cut the apples a bit ahead of time, stir your apple pieces with a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning.
Be careful not to overmix your batter. The gently mixed batter is what gives your brownies their perfect chewy texture.
Near the end of the bake time, stay close to your oven. These brownies need to come out of the oven promptly. That’s what gives them their moist brownie base, and prevents them from becoming dry.
If your maple glaze is too thick to pour over the brownies, you can fix it by stirring in a bit more maple syrup to thin it out. If it’s to thin, you can whisk in a bit more powdered sugar.

Nutrition

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

Stephanie Keeping Publisher
Layne Kangas Marketing
Lenore Ortyl Editorial Director
Lexus Monroe Editorial Assistant

Apple Brownies Ingredients

How To Make This Apple Brownies Recipe

Maple Apple Brownies Substitutions and Additions

Troubleshooting

How To Serve Our Maple Brownies Recipe

How To Store Apple Brownies With Maple Glaze

Why These Easy Apple Brownies Are The Best

Apple Brownies Frequently Asked Questions

More Apple Recipes You’ll Love

Apple Brownies

Ingredients 1x2x3x

For the Apples

For the Brownie Batter

For the Maple Glaze

Instructions

​To Make the Apples

To Make the Brownies

To Make the Glaze

Notes

Nutrition

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

Ingredients

To Make the Apples