14. Caramel Apple Brownies
Elevate your fall baking with these decadent Caramel Apple Brownies, a stunning mashup of rich chocolate and tart autumn fruit. These fudgy, deeply satisfying brownies are studded with tender, cinnamon-spiced apple chunks and generously swirled with thick, gooey caramel that oozes out with every bite. The interplay between the dense, dark chocolate base and the sweet, slightly crisp apple pieces creates an addictive texture contrast. For the best flavor development, allow these to cool completely before slicing, which also ensures those beautiful, clean layers hold up perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth; remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Whisk in sugar, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.
Fold in flour and salt until just combined to create the brownie batter.
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon; cook for 5–7 minutes until apples are tender and let cool slightly.
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan.
Layer the cooked apples over the batter, then pour the remaining brownie batter on top.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and gently swirl with a knife.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly gooey.
Cool completely before cutting into squares.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best apple varieties to use in these Caramel Apple Brownies?
For the best texture and flavor balance against the rich chocolate, use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold their shape well during the 30-minute bake time at 350°F (175°C) and won't turn mushy.
How should I store Caramel Apple Brownies to keep them fudgy?
Store cooled Caramel Apple Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best fudgy texture.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time, and if so, how far in advance?
Yes, these brownies are excellent for making ahead! You can bake them completely up to 2 days in advance. Ensure they are fully cooled before slicing and storing them according to the storage guidelines above.
