Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by greasing it or lining with parchment.

Spread 1/2 cup of pecans onto a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and golden.

Peel, core, and chop 1 cup of apples into 1/2 inch chunks and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened salted butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.

Add 1 egg to the butter and sugar mixture and mix well until combined. Optionally add a splash of vanilla extract.

Sift in 1 cup of flour, 1/2 tsp of baking powder, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon; mix gently until just combined.

Fold in the chopped apples and toasted pecans until evenly distributed.

Transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly before baking for 30-40 minutes.

Let the brownies cool in the pan for 15-30 minutes before slicing into squares.