There’s nothing quite like biting into Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze—a dessert that combines the chewy texture of a brownie with the cozy sweetness of cinnamon-spiced apples. Each layer is packed with flavor: a soft, buttery base, a warm apple filling, and a glossy maple glaze on top. It’s the kind of treat you’ll want to bake when the air turns crisp and your kitchen calls for something comforting. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is simple, forgiving, and oh-so rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall for Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze because they’re:

Rich in flavor: Warm apples, cinnamon, and maple bring seasonal comfort.
Beginner-friendly: Straightforward steps make it easy to succeed.
Beautifully layered: Each bite combines brownie, fruit, and glaze.
Perfect for gatherings: Great for potlucks, holidays, or just because.

This dessert proves that homemade can be both simple and spectacular.

The Story Behind Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

The roots of Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze are inspired by classic American blondies and fruit-filled coffee cakes.

Brownie-style bars first gained popularity in the early 1900s.
Apples have long been symbols of autumn harvest celebrations.
Maple syrup, native to North America, has been used for centuries to sweeten baked goods.
Together, they create a rustic, homestyle dessert beloved during cooler months.

This recipe takes tradition and gives it a seasonal upgrade.

Key Ingredients in Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Flour & baking powder – Build the structure for soft, chewy brownies.
Butter – Adds richness and tender crumb.
Brown sugar & sugar – Provide sweetness and depth of flavor.
Eggs & vanilla – Bind the batter and enhance aroma.
Cinnamon & pumpkin pie spice – Bring warmth and autumn spice.
Apples – Add juicy sweetness and texture to the filling.
Maple syrup & powdered sugar – Create the glossy, sweet glaze.

How to Make Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Cook the apples: In a pot over low heat, simmer apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla for 5–7 minutes until softened. Cool completely.
Preheat and prep: Heat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray an 11×7-inch baking dish.
Cream butter and sugars: Beat butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in salt and vanilla.
Mix dry ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice in another bowl. Gradually fold into the wet mixture.
Layer the batter: Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Add cooled apple filling over it, then top with remaining batter.
Bake: Place in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Make the glaze: Melt butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice in a pot. Remove from heat, whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
Finish: Spread glaze evenly over cooled brownies and allow to set before cutting.

Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze Tips and Twists

Tips:
1. Use Gala apples for sweetness, or Granny Smith for a tart bite.
2. Let the apple filling cool before layering to avoid soggy brownies.
3. Line your pan with parchment for easy removal.
4. For thicker glaze, use a bit more powdered sugar.
5. Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing for neat squares.
Twists:
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Replace the glaze with cream cheese frosting for tangy contrast.
- Mix in dried cranberries with the apple filling for festive flair.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

Keep your Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze fresh and tasty with these easy tips:

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for 5.
Reheating: Microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds to bring back their softness.
Make-Ahead: Bake the brownies and freeze (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Glaze after thawing for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are a dessert that fits any occasion:

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Serve alongside coffee, apple cider, or spiced tea.
Slice into small squares and add to a dessert platter for holidays.
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different apples? Yes—try Honeycrisp or Granny Smith depending on your preference.
Can I skip the glaze? Absolutely, though the maple topping adds amazing flavor.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, freeze unglazed brownies and add glaze after thawing.
Can I reduce the sugar? You can cut the sugar by about ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.
Can I bake in a 9×13 pan? Yes, but reduce bake time slightly and expect thinner bars.

Enjoy Your Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze

Now you’re ready to bake your own batch of Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze. With layers of spiced apple filling tucked inside chewy brownie batter and topped with a sweet maple glaze, this dessert feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday gathering or savoring one with your afternoon coffee, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.

Explore More Recipes

Love these brownies? Pair them with other comforting favorites. Try Pecan Pie Bars for another chewy, nutty dessert. If you want something fruity, Blueberry Bread Pudding is a must-bake. For a cozy fall dinner before dessert, you’ll enjoy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti. And if you’re looking for a quick, easy cookie option, don’t miss Quick Pecan Pie Cookies.

Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze Recipe

These Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze are chewy, buttery bars layered with warm spiced apples and topped with a sweet maple drizzle. Perfect for beginner home cooks, this easy recipe delivers cozy fall flavors in every bite—great for family gatherings or a simple afternoon treat.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword apple brownies, apple dessert, easy brownies, fall baking, maple glaze

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Servings 12 servings

Calories 280kcal

Author Abby Marlow

Ingredients

Brownie Batter

2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 cup unsalted butter softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Apple Filling

2 large Gala apples finely chopped
2 tbsp light brown sugar
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Maple Glaze

2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

In a pot over low heat, cook apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla for 5–7 minutes until softened. Let cool.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease or spray an 11×7-inch baking dish.
Cream butter, sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix dry ingredients into wet until combined.
Spread half the batter into the baking dish. Add apple filling, then spread remaining batter on top.
Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
For the glaze, melt butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar.
Spread glaze evenly over cooled brownies. Slice and enjoy your Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze.

Notes

For best results, let brownies cool completely before adding glaze—it sets better this way. You can swap Gala apples for Granny Smith if you prefer tartness in your Apple Brownies with Maple Glaze.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 120mg
Fiber: 2g