I’ve got to share one of my all-time favorite treats with you today: an Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe that just hits all the right notes. Imagine fudgy, cinnamon-kissed brownies loaded with juicy chunks of apple and crunchy toasted pecans — it’s like fall comfort food wrapped up in every bite. I love this recipe because it’s a delightful twist on traditional brownies, bringing a fresh fruity surprise with each square.
Whether you’re serving this for a cozy afternoon coffee date or a special dessert after dinner, you’ll find that this Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe is not only unique but totally crowd-pleasing. Plus, those pecans add such a nice texture contrast, and the warm cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone coming back for seconds — trust me, my family goes crazy for it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The mix of fresh apples and toasted pecans brings a wonderful balance of sweet and nutty in every bite.
- Simple to Make: You only need a handful of ingredients and one bowl, which means less cleanup—always a win!
- Comfort Meets Celebration: Perfect for cozy nights or sharing with guests during the holidays or fall gatherings.
- Adaptable Recipe: Easily swap nuts or spices to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs without losing the magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe come together to create a moist, flavorful dessert that keeps life simple. Picking the right apples and fresh pecans makes all the difference in both taste and texture.
- Butter: Use salted butter at room temperature for that perfect creamy base and a touch of seasoning.
- Sugar: Just plain granulated sugar – it caramelizes nicely with the apples while keeping things sweet but not overpowering.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the batter together and add richness.
- All-purpose flour: The classic choice for brownies; gives that sturdy but tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Helps the texture stay light and soft rather than dense.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness and cinnamon.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that cozy, spiced aroma and warming taste.
- Apples: Fresh and chopped into small pieces – I like a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Fuji for a nice tartness and juiciness.
- Pecan pieces: Toasted to amplify their nutty flavor and add delightful crunch.
Variations
I’ve often played around with this Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe to fit different occasions or just to keep things interesting. Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or even almonds if that’s what you have on hand!
- Nut-Free Version: I’ve made this without nuts by simply leaving them out or adding seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, which works beautifully for guests with allergies.
- Spiced Up: Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon to deepen the warm spice notes—it’s a cozy twist perfect for chilly weather.
- Richer Brownies: Using brown sugar instead of white adds a molasses undertone that my family loved during the holidays.
How to Make Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Pecans and Prep the Apples
Start by gently toasting those pecan pieces in a small dry pan over medium heat for just a few minutes until they smell fragrant and just start to brown. Toasting them really brings out a delicious nutty depth that raw nuts can lack. Once toasted, set them aside to cool. While that’s happening, peel, core, and chop your apples into uniform half-inch chunks so they cook evenly and mix well into the batter.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Egg
In your mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and sugar until fluffy—this step is key because it creates air bubbles that lighten the brownies. Add the egg and keep mixing until everything is fully incorporated and the batter looks smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add to Wet
Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute those lovely spices and leavening agent. Gently fold this dry mix into your wet batter, being careful not to overmix — once just combined is perfect to avoid a tough brownie.
Step 4: Fold in Apples and Pecans
This is the fun part — stir in those juicy apple chunks and crunchy pecans. You’ll notice the batter becomes wetter and stickier thanks to the apples releasing their moisture, and that’s exactly what you want for that rich texture. Make sure everything’s evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pour the sticky batter into a buttered 8×8 inch baking dish or one lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Press it gently to spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 35 minutes — though some ovens run hotter or cooler, so start checking around 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown crust and that a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy
Once baked, let your apple pecan brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares. This resting time sets the brownies nicely and makes cutting cleaner. I can’t recommend enough pairing these warm squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – it’s absolute heaven.
Pro Tips for Making Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe
- Toast Nuts Carefully: I’ve learned that toasting pecans just until fragrant (about 3-4 minutes) makes a huge flavor difference without burning them.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing dry ingredients in just until combined keeps your brownies tender and prevents them from getting too dense.
- Choose Crisp Apples: Using firm apple varieties like Fuji helps maintain texture and prevents the apples from turning mushy during baking.
- Watch Your Oven: Every oven bakes differently, so starting to check at 30 minutes saved me from overbaking and drying out the brownies.
How to Serve Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra-special touch. Sometimes I’ll add a few pecan halves on the surface before baking just for presentation—makes them look bakery-worthy!
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own, but when I serve it, I love pairing the Apple Pecan Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweet-tart bite of the apples. For a festive brunch, a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee is the perfect companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings, I’ve arranged cut brownies in a circle on a pretty platter and topped the center with a bowl of warm caramel sauce for dipping. Another time, I turned the brownies into layered mini parfaits with cinnamon whipped cream and fresh apple slices—everyone loved how fun and unexpected it was!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover apple pecan brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days – keeping them this way preserves their moist texture. If it’s warmer where you are, a cool spot or the fridge works fine too, although it’ll be a bit firmer.
Freezing
I discovered that wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and popping them in a freezer bag is the best way to freeze these brownies for up to 2 months. When I’m ready, I just thaw them overnight in the fridge and they taste almost as fresh as the day I baked them.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, I reheat apple pecan brownies in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-8 minutes. This brings back their soft texture and brings out the lovely apple aroma again.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of apple for the Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work best because they hold their shape well and provide a nice contrast to the sweet batter. Softer varieties may turn mushy and change the texture of the brownies.
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What’s the best way to avoid soggy brownies from the apples?
Using firm apples chopped into small, even pieces and not overmixing the batter helps a lot. Also, make sure to bake the brownies until they are set and golden brown on top—this helps evaporate extra moisture from the apples.
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Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be used instead of pecans, depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Just toast them lightly first to enhance their flavor.
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Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to get the right texture.
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How do I know when the Apple Pecan Brownies are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown crust on top, and check with a toothpick inserted near the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Because the apples add moisture, the toothpick might not come out completely dry, but avoid any wet batter.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe turned out every time I’ve made it — it’s simple, comforting, and something a little different than your usual brownie. I encourage you to try it out; honestly, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug in dessert form and shines on both casual days and special occasions. So go ahead, pick up some fresh apples and pecans, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious new favorite!
Print
Apple Pecan Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Apple Brownies combine the moist, tender texture of classic brownies with the fresh sweetness of chopped apples and the crunch of toasted pecans. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and baked to a golden brown, they make a delightful treat that balances fruity freshness with rich buttery goodness.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all purpose flour (133 g)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, salted, room temp (112 g)
- 1 cup sugar (200 g)
- 1 egg
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped apple pieces (100 g)
- 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces (53 g)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking your apple brownies evenly.
- Toast Pecans: In a small pan over medium heat, toast the pecan pieces until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before using to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks approximately ½ inch in size to distribute evenly throughout the brownies and add juicy texture.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This aerates the batter for a tender crumb.
- Add Egg: Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, ensuring a smooth mixture for binding the ingredients.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the brownies.
- Add Apples and Pecans: Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans, mixing well. The batter will become sticky and moist due to the apples’ natural juices.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Butter an 8×8 inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal and non-stick baking.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and press it evenly. Bake at 350℉ for 30-45 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 15 minutes to set before slicing into 9 squares. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Baking times may vary depending on your oven; check doneness with a toothpick after 30 minutes.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Butter the baking dish well or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- These brownies keep well stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
