Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar together until smooth and glossy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
4. Stir in the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until just incorporated—do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in the diced apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
8. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed), and cinnamon until smooth and pourable.
9. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies. Let it set slightly before slicing into squares.

Variations:

• Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for texture and flavor.
• Spiced Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to enhance the fall spice profile.
• Cranberry Twist: Fold in a handful of dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Tips:

• Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
• Let the brownies cool completely before glazing to prevent the drizzle from melting.
• For cleaner slices, refrigerate the glazed brownies for 10–15 minutes before cutting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze are a simple yet stunning dessert that wraps up the best flavors of fall in one irresistible square. Perfectly moist, gently spiced, and topped with a maple drizzle, they’re the treat your autumn baking lineup has been waiting for.