Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Apple brownies with maple glaze are the perfect fall dessert that brings together the best of seasonal flavors in every bite. With chewy edges, a soft and moist blondie-style center, and a warm maple glaze on top, this treat is bound to be your new favorite autumn indulgence. If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that celebrates apples and spices, these apple brownies are just what your kitchen needs this season.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Imagine biting into a soft, cinnamon-spiced bar filled with sweet apple chunks and topped with a smooth maple glaze. These brownies are a delightful twist on traditional chocolate brownies. Instead of cocoa, they highlight comforting fall spices and fresh apples. The buttery blondie base combined with the richness of maple syrup delivers a dessert that’s satisfying without being overly sweet. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or just a chilly evening treat.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Apple Filling:

• 2 large Gala apples, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp light brown sugar
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Maple Glaze:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Step-by-Step: How to Make Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

1. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium pot over low heat, cook the chopped Gala apples with brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and cinnamon for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are tender. Set aside and allow to cool completely.
2. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray an 11×7 baking dish with baking spray and set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and salt.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is fully combined.
5. Assemble the Layers: Spread half of the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooled apple filling over the batter, then gently spread the remaining batter on top.
6. Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly in the pan.
7. Make the Maple Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter with the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
8. Glaze and Cool: Pour the maple glaze evenly over the warm brownies. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Helpful Tips

• Make sure your apples are chopped finely and cooked until just tender to avoid a watery filling.
• Allow the apple mixture to cool before layering it into the brownie batter to prevent the batter from becoming too runny.
• Don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. This helps keep the texture tender and moist.
• Let the brownies cool before adding the glaze to ensure it spreads evenly and sets nicely.

Substitutions and Variations

• Apples: Gala apples are naturally sweet and tender, but for a firmer texture, try using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples instead.
• Spices: Swap pumpkin pie spice with a homemade blend of nutmeg, allspice, and extra cinnamon.
• Butter: If you’re dairy-free, try using plant-based butter alternatives.
• Maple Syrup: Substitute with honey or agave syrup in a pinch, though the flavor will change slightly.
• Add-ins: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Storage Instructions

Store the apple brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. You can freeze the unglazed brownies for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before glazing.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 241 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 48 mg
• Sodium: 71 mg
• Sugar: 22 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Calcium: 34 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

Serving Suggestions

Serve these apple brownies warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent treat, drizzle a little extra maple syrup over the top. They’re perfect as a sweet brunch option, an after-school snack, or as the finale to a cozy fall dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Can I use a different type of apple? Yes! Gala apples are recommended for their sweetness, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even Granny Smith can work depending on your preference for tartness or texture.

Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. These brownies can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Glaze them just before serving for best results.

Can I skip the glaze? While the glaze adds a delicious maple flavor and visual appeal, the brownies are still amazing without it if you prefer a simpler treat.

What makes these brownies different from blondies? These are technically blondies but with apple filling and warm spices, plus a glaze. So they are often referred to as apple brownies due to their brownie-like texture and shape.

Do I need to peel the apples? It’s up to you. Peeling gives a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on adds fiber and a more rustic feel.

Final Thoughts

Thank you so much for stopping by and checking out this delicious apple brownies with maple glaze recipe. I absolutely love how these bars combine the cozy flavors of fall with a buttery blondie texture and that irresistible maple finish. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and always a hit with family and friends. I hope you enjoy baking (and eating!) these as much as I do. Wishing you happy baking and warm moments shared with those you love. Thanks for being part of this food-loving community!

Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

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• Author: Lisa
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 20 bars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze are chewy, moist blondie bars layered with sweet cinnamon-spiced apples and topped with a rich maple glaze. This easy fall dessert is perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or cozy nights in. Save this recipe and make it part of your autumn baking lineup!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Batter:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 cup dark brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Apple Filling:

2 large Gala apples, finely chopped

2 tbsp light brown sugar

1 tbsp unsalted butter

1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Maple Glaze:

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium pot over low heat, cook the chopped Gala apples with brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and cinnamon for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are tender. Set aside and allow to cool completely.
2. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray an 11×7 baking dish with baking spray and set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and salt.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is fully combined.
5. Assemble the Layers: Spread half of the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooled apple filling over the batter, then gently spread the remaining batter on top.
6. Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly in the pan.
7. Make the Maple Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter with the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
8. Glaze and Cool: Pour the maple glaze evenly over the warm brownies. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Notes

You can use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a firmer bite.

For nut lovers, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.

These freeze well without the glaze—just thaw and glaze before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American