If you’re a vegan or just looking to cut back on animal products, you might think that you have to give up your favorite treats like brownies. However, with the rise of veganism, there are now tons of delicious vegan brownie recipes that are just as indulgent and satisfying as their non-vegan counterparts. Whether you’re looking for a classic chocolate brownie or something a bit more unique like a peanut butter swirl brownie, there’s a vegan recipe out there for you. In this article, we’ll share some of the best vegan brownie recipes out there, so you can indulge in your sweet tooth guilt-free.
The Benefits of Vegan Brownies
Switching to vegan food has become increasingly popular in recent years for many reasons. People are becoming more health-conscious, environmentally conscious, and ethical lifestyle advocates. One of the ways to incorporate this lifestyle into your diet is by consuming vegan desserts, such as brownies. Many people have a misconception that vegan brownies are inferior in taste and texture. However, vegan brownies taste delicious, and they come with their own set of benefits.
Lower in Calories
If you are looking for an indulgent dessert without the extra calories, vegan brownies are your answer. Traditional brownies are made with eggs, butter, and other animal products that are high in calories. Vegan brownies, on the other hand, are made with healthier plant-based ingredients such as coconut oil and applesauce, which have a lower calorie count. Coconut oil is a type of fat that can help improve cholesterol levels and boost metabolism, making it a healthier alternative to butter or margarine. Applesauce, on the other hand, is a good source of fiber and nutrients, which makes it an excellent substitute for eggs in vegan baking.
Moreover, vegan brownies are typically made with natural sweeteners such as maple syrup, coconut sugar, or agave nectar. These sweeteners have a lower glycemic index than traditional sugar, which means that they won’t spike your blood sugar levels as high. As a result, you won’t experience the energy crash that post-sugar binge provides, making you feel more energized and satisfied.
Eco-Friendly
Producing animal products requires more resources than plant-based products, which has a significant impact on our environment. Raising livestock, for instance, requires a lot of water and feeds. Moreover, animal waste pollutes our waterways and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing vegan food, including vegan brownies, can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
Another thing to consider is that consuming vegan brownie means you’re not consuming products that contain artificial preservatives and additives. The food industry is known for adding chemicals that preserve the shelf-life of products, and some of these chemicals could be harmful to our environment. By choosing vegan brownies made with natural ingredients, you help reduce the demand for products that contain chemicals that could have long-lasting effects on our planet.
Conclusion
Overall, there are many good reasons to try vegan brownies. They are delicious, they are lower in calories than traditional brownies, and they are eco-friendly. There is no reason to think that choosing vegan food has to detract from the taste or quality of your food. With the right ingredients and recipes, you can enjoy a healthy dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Key Ingredients in Vegan Brownies
Vegan brownies are a delicious and healthy alternative to regular brownies, and they can be just as tasty. They usually contain nutritious ingredients such as flax eggs, cocoa powder, and non-dairy milk products.
Flax Eggs
Flax eggs are a staple ingredient in vegan baking and are used as an egg substitute. They are easy and cheap to make, by mixing ground flaxseeds with water, and leave no aftertaste in the final product. Flax eggs mimic the consistency of eggs and help bind the brownie mixture together. They also contain healthy fats and fiber, which make them a nutritious addition to vegan brownies. Many people have also reported that flax eggs are more beneficial for plant-based eaters, as they are packed with Omega-3’s and essential fatty acids.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is what gives vegan brownies their rich chocolate flavor. Cocoa powder is made from roasted cacao beans that are ground into powder. Cocoa is also packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial to your health and can help boost your mood. When using cocoa powder in vegan brownies, it is essential to use unsweetened cocoa to ensure the recipe’s health benefits are not negated by additional sugars. As a rule of thumb, the higher the percentage of cocoa content, the more antioxidants it contains.
Non-Dairy Milk Products
Non-dairy milk products such as almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk, are healthier and more sustainable alternatives to traditional dairy milk. As opposed to traditional dairy milk, which is packed with saturated fats, processed sugars, and hormones, plant-based milk products are rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamins, and iron. Additionally, non-dairy milk products add moisture and creaminess to vegan brownies, making them a great substitute in cooking and baking. It is important to note that every type of plant-based milk has different flavors, so it’s vital to choose one that best complements the other ingredients in your recipe.
Simple Vegan Brownie Recipes
Craving for something sweet yet healthy? Look no further than these simple and delicious vegan brownie recipes that you can whip up in no time. Made with minimal ingredients, these vegan brownies are perfect for those who are on a tight budget or simply want to indulge in a guilt-free treat.
1. Classic Vegan Brownies
This classic vegan brownie recipe is a game-changer for those who love their brownies rich, moist, and chocolatey. The best part? It only requires five simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry – all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Simply mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine and bake. Serve these brownies warm with a cold glass of plant-based milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.
2. Fudgy Avocado Brownies
Want to sneak in some healthy fats into your brownies without sacrificing taste? Try making these fudgy avocado brownies that are naturally gluten-free and vegan. Instead of using butter or oil, mashed ripe avocados are used to give a creamy and rich texture to the brownies. To sweeten the deal, add some maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder to the mix. This recipe also allows for some creative add-ons like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
3. Flourless Black Bean Brownies
Yes, you read that right – black beans can make delicious brownies too! This flourless black bean brownie recipe is a game-changer for those who are gluten intolerant or simply want to up their protein intake. The black beans provide a fudgy and moist texture to the brownies while also serving as a source of plant-based protein. To make this recipe, simply blend together cooked black beans, cocoa powder, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Bake the mixture in a brownie pan and voila – you have a batch of healthy and scrumptious brownies that you can enjoy guilt-free!
Advanced Vegan Brownie Recipes
For those that are seeking a challenge, elevate your baking skills with more complex vegan brownie recipes that are sure to impress.
1. Spicy Mexican Chocolate Brownies
These spicy Mexican chocolate brownies have a twist that sets them apart from traditional chocolate brownies. Made with vegan dark chocolate and flavored with chipotle powder, these brownies have a little kick to them. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg also gives them a warming quality that’s perfect for cool fall and winter nights. Top these moist and decadent brownies with vegan vanilla ice cream for the perfect dessert.
2. Raspberry Hazelnut Brownies
If you’re a fan of the combination of raspberry and chocolate, then these raspberry hazelnut brownies will be right up your alley. The sweetness of the raspberries paired with the richness of the chocolate make an incredibly delicious and indulgent treat. Hazelnuts add a nice texture and crunch to these already amazing brownies. Serve these incredible brownies at your next get-together and watch them disappear!
3. Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Peanut butter lovers rejoice! These vegan peanut butter swirl brownies are here to cure your cravings. Rich and fudgy chocolate brownie batter is swirled with a luscious peanut butter mixture to make a dessert that’s impossible to resist. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or any gathering.
4. Salted Caramel Pecan Brownies
If you love salty and sweet desserts, then you need to try these salted caramel pecan brownies. They are a decadent mix of chocolatey goodness, homemade caramel, and roasted pecans. The addition of high-quality sea salt ties everything together to create a perfectly balanced taste. Be sure to make these brownies with a sturdy baking dish, as the caramel can get quite sticky. Serve them with an ice-cold glass of your favorite non-dairy milk.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Dark Chocolate Chips | 2 cups | Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or the microwave until smooth. |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 ½ cups | In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside. |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp | |
| Salt | 1 tsp | |
| Coconut Sugar | 1 ½ cups | Cream together the melted vegan butter and coconut sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. |
| Vegan Butter | 1 cup | |
| Ground Flaxseed | 2 tbsp | In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flaxseed and warm water and let stand for 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. |
| Warm Water | 6 tbsp | |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Stir the vanilla extract, melted chocolate, and flaxseed mixture into the butter mixture until smooth. |
| Pecans | 1 cup | Add chopped pecans to the batter and fold until just mixed. |
| Vegan Caramel Sauce | 1 cup | Pour caramel sauce on top of batter and use a knife to create a marbled design on top. Sprinkle with sea salt. |
| Sea Salt | 1 tsp |
Vegan Brownies for Specific Diets
Who doesn’t love some good old chocolatey brownies? Unfortunately, some dietary restrictions hinder us from enjoying the classic sweet treat. Luckily, by tweaking a few ingredients, it’s possible to create vegan brownies that cater to specific diets such as gluten-free, sugar-free, and Paleo. Read on to discover alternative ways of creating vegan brownies that cater to these specific dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Vegan Brownie Recipe
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, so many traditional brownie recipes call for wheat flour. However, for those on a gluten-free diet, this is a big no-no. Another type of flour, such as almond flour or coconut flour, can replace wheat flour in brownie recipes. Here’s a recipe for gluten-free vegan brownies:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, almond milk, flax egg, and vanilla extract. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until the batter is well-combined. Pour the batter into an 8×8 greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let the brownies cool before serving.
Sugar-Free Vegan Brownies Recipe
For those who avoid sugar, it is still possible to enjoy the goodness of brownies. Instead of processed sugar, ingredients such as maple syrup, bananas, or applesauce can add natural sweetness to your recipe. Here’s a recipe for sugar-free vegan brownies:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, flax egg, and vanilla extract. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until the batter is well-combined. Pour the batter into an 8×8 greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let the brownies cool before serving.
Paleo Vegan Brownies Recipe
The Paleo diet eliminates all processed foods, so those on this diet may avoid grains, dairy, and refined sugars. Here’s a recipe that adheres to the Paleo principles:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal and 6 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, almond butter, flax eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until the batter is well-combined. Pour the batter into an 8×8 greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let the brownies cool before serving.
With these alternative vegan brownie recipes, every chocolate-lover, no matter what their dietary restrictions are, can indulge without any guilt. There’s always room for creativity when it comes to cooking, experimenting with new ingredients can lead to delicious outcomes you never imagined!
Vegan Brownie FAQ
As more and more people turn to plant-based diets, vegan desserts have become increasingly popular. However, many people have questions about how to make vegan brownies. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about vegan brownies.
Can vegan brownies be frozen for a later time?
Yes, absolutely! Vegan brownies are perfect for freezing because they retain their moist texture and delicious flavor. Simply place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, let the brownies sit at room temperature for a few hours or microwave on low power for a few seconds until they are soft.
What is a good substitute for sugar in vegan brownies?
There are several good substitutes for sugar in vegan brownies, including:
- Maple syrup
- Agave nectar
- Coconut sugar
- Stevia
Each of these natural sweeteners has its own unique flavor and level of sweetness, so feel free to experiment with different combinations to find the perfect match for your taste. Just keep in mind that some sweeteners, like maple syrup or agave nectar, are more liquid than sugar, so you may need to adjust your recipe accordingly.
Can I use applesauce instead of oil in vegan brownie recipes?
Yes, applesauce is an excellent substitute for oil in vegan brownies. Not only is applesauce lower in fat, but it also adds a natural sweetness and extra moisture to your brownies. To replace oil with applesauce, use the same amount of applesauce as the oil called for in your recipe. If you don’t have applesauce on hand, you can also use mashed bananas or pureed avocado as a healthy fat substitute.
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour in vegan brownies?
Almond flour is a great substitute for all-purpose flour in vegan brownies, especially if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Almond flour adds a delicious nutty flavor and a moist texture to the brownies. Just keep in mind that almond flour is denser than all-purpose flour, so you may need to adjust your recipe accordingly.
Can I use a flax egg instead of a regular egg in vegan brownies?
A flax egg is a great vegan substitute for regular eggs in baking, including vegan brownies. To make a flax egg, simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds with three tablespoons of water and let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes gel-like. One flax egg is equivalent to one regular egg. Flax eggs work best in recipes that call for one or two eggs.
How can I make my vegan brownies more fudgy?
If you prefer your brownies to be extra fudgy, one great trick is to add a little bit of coffee or espresso powder to your recipe. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and gives your brownies a richer, denser texture. You can also add a tablespoon or two of nut butter, like peanut butter or almond butter.
Thanks for Reading, Come Back for More Vegan Brownie Recipes!
Now that you have some delicious and easy vegan brownie recipes to try out in your kitchen, we hope that you’ll come back soon to check out more vegan recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just starting to explore the world of plant-based cooking, we’ve got plenty of recipes to inspire you. So grab your apron and get cooking – and don’t forget to let us know how your brownies turned out!