Description
These healthy brownies are a guilt-free, vegan, and gluten-free dessert made with wholesome ingredients like applesauce and almond butter. They’re fudgy, dense, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while sticking to a healthier lifestyle. A nutritious alternative to traditional brownies that don’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2/3 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or brown sugar substitute)
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 cup healthy frosting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, almond butter, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and any additional sweetener. Mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor.
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing them into squares. Serve as-is or with frosting for added sweetness.
Notes
- Substitute peanut butter or cashew butter for almond butter if preferred.
- Honey can replace maple syrup if desired.
- For a sugar-free version, opt for a suitable sugar substitute.
- Ground flaxseed mixed with water can replace eggs for a vegan option.
- To make them nut-free, use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
- Prep Time: PT15M
- Cook Time: PT20M
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Healthy Brownies, Guilt-Free Brownies, Vegan Healthy Brownies, Gluten-Free Brownies, Healthy Fudgy Brownies