This decadent apple brownie is a fusion of rich dark chocolate and the natural sweetness of applesauce, complemented by tangy dried cranberries. The addition of orange zest provides a refreshing citrusy note, while the optional pistachios and melted chocolate make for a beautiful and indulgent decoration. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any chocolate lover!
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Brownie:
- Applesauce – 180g (6.3 oz)
- Dark chocolate – 150g (5.3 oz)
- 3 eggs
- Dried cranberries – 30g (1 oz)
- Orange zest (optional)
- Any starch (cornstarch, potato starch, or similar) – 40g (1.4 oz)
- Baking powder – 1 tsp
- A pinch of salt
For Decoration (optional):
- Melted chocolate – for drizzling
- Pistachios – chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease and line a square baking pan (approximately 20×20 cm or 8×8 inches) with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce and eggs until smooth.
- If using, add the orange zest to the wet mixture for a citrusy flavor boost.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Break the dark chocolate into pieces and melt it in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or microwave in short intervals. Stir until smooth and allow to cool slightly before adding it to the mixture.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the starch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
- Add the Cranberries:
- Fold in the dried cranberries, mixing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Brownie:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Decorate:
- Allow the brownie to cool completely before slicing.
- If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped pistachios for a decorative touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy as a breakfast treat with a cup of yogurt.
- Serve as a dessert for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the chocolate is slightly cooled before adding it to the mixture to avoid cooking the eggs.
- You can substitute the cranberries with raisins or other dried fruits if preferred.
- Ensure the batter is evenly spread in the pan to bake uniformly.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture, reducing the need for excess sugar.
- Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and can improve heart health when consumed in moderation.
- Cranberries offer health benefits like improving urinary tract health and are high in vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Suitable for vegetarians.
- Contains gluten (if using regular starch).
- Can be made gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free starch.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This apple brownie is the perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor and fruity sweetness. It’s easy to make, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. The cranberries add a delightful tang, while the optional pistachios give a nice crunch, making each bite a treat. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a comforting dessert with a twist on the traditional brownie.
Conclusion:
Apple brownies are a delicious alternative to classic brownies, offering a moist and flavorful texture. The combination of applesauce and dark chocolate creates a rich taste that is hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a treat, this recipe will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Give it a try – you won’t regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use regular sugar instead of applesauce?
No, applesauce is a key ingredient for texture and moisture. If you don’t have applesauce, you can try using mashed bananas instead. - Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but note that it will change the flavor profile. White chocolate is much sweeter and less rich than dark chocolate. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free starch like cornstarch or potato starch to make the brownie gluten-free. - How long should I bake the brownie?
Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the brownie is ready. - Can I substitute cranberries with something else?
Yes, you can use raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even fresh fruit like raspberries. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it the day before and store it in an airtight container. - How do I make the brownie more chocolaty?
You can add extra dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for an even richer chocolate flavor. - Can I skip the pistachios?
Yes, the pistachios are optional. You can use any other nut or omit them entirely. - Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
Yes, coconut oil is a good substitute for butter and will give the brownies a slight coconut flavor. - How do I know when the brownie is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownie. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.