Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Equipment Needed
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Spatula
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Parchment paper (optional)
– Small saucepan (for the glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal, or just grease it well. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. The aroma of the cocoa powder always gets me; it really sets the tone for this rich treat. In another bowl, mix together both sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well blended. Then, combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Finally, gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts if you’re using them. This step is crucial as it keeps the apples intact, providing that lovely juicy burst. (See the next page below to continue steps…)