Description
These Spiced Chunky Apple Brownies combine the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with tender chunks of fresh apples and a moist, fluffy brownie base. Enhanced with optional crunchy walnuts or pecans, this dessert offers a perfect balance of spiced sweetness and texture, ideal for autumn or any cozy occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly, then set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter with granulated sugar and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no graininess.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until fully blended and the batter looks homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the prepared dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to just combine. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the chopped peeled apples and, if desired, the chopped walnuts or pecans. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter for consistent flavor and texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top for uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating that the brownies are fully cooked.
- Cool: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set properly.
- Serve: Slice the brownies into squares and serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans.
- Ensure apples are peeled and chopped uniformly for even baking and texture.
- Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These brownies can also be warmed briefly before serving to enhance flavors.
