Get ready to transform your dessert game with a mouthwatering twist on the classic brownie that will make your taste buds dance! This Apple Pecan Skillet Brownie isn't just another chocolate treat - it's a decadent experience that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the warm, comforting flavors of fresh apples and crunchy pecans. Baked directly in a cast-iron skillet, this dessert promises a crispy exterior, a gooey center, and a presentation that'll have everyone at the table begging for a slice.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 10-inch cast-iron skillet by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar until well combined and slightly smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in diced apples and chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cast-iron skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The brownie is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the skillet for 10-15 minutes. The brownie will continue to set as it cools.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Cut into wedges directly from the skillet.
Tips
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother batter integration
- Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to tough, dense brownies
- Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast
- Toast the pecans before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor
- Check the brownie early - every oven is slightly different
- Let the brownie rest in the skillet after baking to allow it to set properly
- For extra indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, a similar-sized baking pan will work
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
