Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon and apples filling your home. It brings to mind cozy autumn evenings and delicious homemade treats. Today, we’re combining two favorite desserts – fudgy brownies and warm apple pie – into one amazing dish. This recipe will bring you joy in every bite.
Why Make This Recipe
You will love these Skillet Apple Pie Brownies because they are the best of both worlds: rich, chocolatey brownie with tender, spiced apple pie. This skillet dessert is easy to make but looks very impressive, perfect for parties or a special treat. It is warm and cozy, ideal for cool evenings. You can change the spices and apples to your liking. A large skillet makes this a great dessert to share.
How to Make Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
Making Skillet Apple Pie Brownies involves three simple steps: first, prepare the apple filling. Second, mix the brownie batter. Third, assemble and bake the dessert in a cast iron skillet.
Ingredients of Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
#### For the Brownie Layer:
- Unsalted Butter
- Granulated Sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla Extract
- All-Purpose Flour
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- Baking Powder
- Salt
- Chocolate Chips (optional)
#### For the Apple Pie Topping:
- Apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work well)
- Brown Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Lemon Juice
- Cornstarch
- Water or Apple Cider
Directions of Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
#### Step 1: Preparing the Apple Pie Filling
- Peel, core, and slice your apples.
- In a large bowl, mix apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Set aside so the flavors can mix.
#### Step 2: Crafting the Brownie Batter
- Preheat your oven and grease your cast iron skillet.
- Melt butter and sugar together.
- Whisk in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Add chocolate chips if you are using them.
#### Step 3: Assembling and Baking Your Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
- Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared skillet.
- Spoon the apple pie filling over the brownie layer.
- Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the apples, spreading gently to cover as much as possible.
- Bake until apples are tender and the brownie is set.
How to Serve Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
Serve your Skillet Apple Pie Brownies warm. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is perfect. A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a nice touch. You can also drizzle warm caramel sauce over it. A light dusting of powdered sugar makes it look beautiful.
How to Store Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
Store any leftover Skillet Apple Pie Brownies covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for a fresh taste.
Tips to Make Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
- Do not overmix the brownie batter; this makes brownies tough.
- Use good quality cocoa powder for rich flavor.
- Adjust baking time based on your skillet size and oven.
- Let the skillet cool slightly before serving for easier slicing and a more stable dessert.
- Choose firm, tart apples that hold their shape well.
- Do not skimp on the butter; it makes a fudgy brownie.
- Monitor baking time; ovens vary, so watch your skillet to avoid over-baking.
- The cast iron skillet helps create crispy edges and a tender inside.
- Cool slightly before slicing; this helps the dessert set and makes for cleaner cuts.
Variation
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter or on top.
- Caramel Swirl: Swirl some caramel sauce into the brownie batter before baking.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the apple filling.
- Berry Good: Add a handful of fresh cranberries or raspberries to the apple filling for a tart taste.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these Skillet Apple Pie Brownies ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and brownie batter a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
Q2: Can I use pre-made pie filling for these Skillet Apple Pie Brownies?
A2: Fresh apples are best, but you can use canned apple pie filling if needed. Make sure to drain extra liquid to prevent soggy brownies.
Q3: My Skillet Apple Pie Brownies look too wet in the middle. What went wrong?
A3: This can happen if the apples were not cooked enough or the brownies did not bake long enough. Ensure apples are tender after baking. A toothpick put into the brownie part (not an apple piece) should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Spiced Nutty Skillet Apple Pie Brownies
Equipment
- Large bowl
- 10-inch cast iron skillet
- Whisk
- Medium bowl
- Spatula/Spoon
- Toothpick
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks) melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Apple Pie Filling
- 3 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water or apple cider
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Pie Filling
- Combine sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a large bowl; stir well and set aside to meld flavors.
Craft the Brownie Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
- Whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth, then whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
- If using, gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped pecans or walnuts.
Assemble and Bake
- Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared skillet, spoon the spiced apple filling evenly over it, then carefully dollop and spread the remaining brownie batter on top.
Bake and Serve
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool slightly in the skillet before serving warm with desired toppings like vanilla bean ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.