Sweets for the Sweet: Apple Brownies

This week has been really challenging.  Nothing catastrophic, just felt like I was hitting tons of road blocks.  Well, in my opinion, one of the best ways to combat frustration is dessert.  Cue Dessert One: Apple Brownies.  Made for last night's small group (along with Samoas Bars which will be coming soon), these had a crisp, sugary crust covering a gooey, buttery blondie filled with sweet tart apple chunks.  Topped with some whipped cream (yes, the kind from a spray can...it's easy), sublime.  The dear husband had two in one sitting (yes, I just ratted you out, Honey). 

Apple Brownies
1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 medium apples, peeled and roughly chopped (about 2 cups)
1 cup all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Grease an 8x8 square baking dish.  In a medium microwave safe mixing bowl, melt butter.  Blend together sugars, butter and egg until well combined.  Stir in vanilla.  In a separate bowl (or on a piece of waxed paper to save a dish), combine flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda and cinnamon.  Add to wet ingredients.  Stir just until moistened.  Fold in apple chunks.  Pour into baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.  Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.