Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

These apple brownies are the perfect cross between a chewy brownie and a moist cake bar. Loaded with fresh apples and warm spices, then topped with a sweet maple glaze, they’re the kind of treat that makes the house smell like fall.

This recipe was born from my grandmother’s love for apples. She always had baskets of them in the kitchen during autumn, and one of her favorite experiments was baking them into unexpected desserts. The first time she drizzled maple glaze over her apple bars, we all knew it was a keeper. To this day, whenever I bake these, I think of her wooden spoon stirring up apple chunks in a big bowl while she hummed along to the radio.

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Ingredients

For the Apple Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar. Stir in eggs and vanilla.

Step 2 – Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Slowly stir into wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3 – Add Apples
Fold in chopped apples (and nuts if using). Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before glazing.

Step 5 – Maple Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled brownies. Slice into bars and enjoy!

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Pro Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter—keep it just combined for tender brownies.
• Use tart apples for the best flavor balance.
• Warm the glaze slightly before drizzling for a smoother finish.

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Ingredient Substitutions

• Swap maple syrup for honey if needed.
• Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different depth of sweetness.
• Replace nuts with dried cranberries for a festive touch.

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Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days for extra freshness.
• Freeze (unglazed) bars for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Dust with a little cinnamon before serving for extra flair.

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Cultural Context

Apple desserts have deep roots in American kitchens, especially in the fall when orchards are overflowing. While apple pies and crisps are the classics, recipes like these bars show the playful side of home baking. The maple glaze adds a touch of Canadian influence, bringing together two iconic autumn flavors.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?
A: Applesauce will change the texture—stick to chopped apples for the best bite.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just use a larger baking pan and extend baking time slightly.

Q: What apples are best?
A: Granny Smith for tartness, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter, juicier option.

Q: Can I skip the glaze?
A: You can, but the maple glaze really makes these bars special.