Introduction
Delight your taste buds with this scrumptious recipe that brings together the sweet and tart flavors of Honeycrisp apples into a rich brownie batter, all drizzled with a luscious maple glaze. Perfect for dessert, these brownies are not only a cozy treat for autumn but also a year-round favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Apples:
2½ cups peeled and diced Honeycrisp apples (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 ground 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 ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon salt
1½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 1 hour (including cooling time)
Yield
About 16 brownies
These delightful brownies are a fusion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the delicious end result!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Apples
– In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
– Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the apples have softened but still hold their shape, and the sugars have caramelized.
– Remove from heat and allow the apples to cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Brownie Batter
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
– In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract. Using an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat until fully incorporated.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
– Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a rubber spatula until just combined.
– Using a slotted spoon, add the cooled apples to the batter, leaving any excess liquid behind. Fold the apples into the batter until evenly distributed.
Bake
– Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
– Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
– Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Maple Glaze
– In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the melted butter, pure maple syrup, maple extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Heat for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is fully combined and just starts to bubble around the edges.
– Remove from heat and whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth.
Glaze the Brownies
– Once the brownies have cooled completely, pour the maple glaze evenly over the top, spreading it to cover the entire surface.
– Allow the glaze to set at room temperature until firm before slicing and serving.
Notes
Apple Selection
– Honeycrisp apples provide a great balance of sweetness and tartness, but feel free to substitute with your favorite apple variety that holds shape when cooked.
Room Temperature Ingredients
– Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better emulsification in the batter.
Storing Brownies
– Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Glaze Consistency
– If the glaze is too thick, you can add a little more maple syrup or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Cook techniques
Caramelizing Apples
In a skillet, combine diced apples with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples soften but retain their shape, and the sugars caramelize.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices before combining with wet ingredients.
Creating Brownie Batter
Combine melted butter and sugars, then add eggs one at a time, beating until the mixture is smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until just combined.
Folding in Ingredients
Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the cooled caramelized apples into the brownie batter, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
Baking
Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating doneness.
Preparing Maple Glaze
Heat melted butter, maple syrup, maple extract, cinnamon, and salt in a saucepan until just bubbling. Whisk in sifted powdered sugar until smooth.
Glazing Brownies
Pour the cooled maple glaze over the brownies, spreading it evenly to cover the surface. Allow the glaze to set before slicing.
FAQ
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can substitute Honeycrisp apples with other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji, but they may affect the flavor and texture.
What can I use if I don’t have maple extract?
If you don’t have maple extract, you can omit it or substitute with additional vanilla extract for flavor.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the brownies gluten-free.
How should I store the brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Conclusion
The combination of sweet Honeycrisp apples and rich brownie batter creates a delightful dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. The addition of a maple glaze lends a finishing touch, elevating the flavors and making this dessert a perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature for a delicious experience.
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