Healthy Fudgy Brownies (Vegan & Gluten-Free Options)

These rich, fudgy brownies pack a nutritious punch while satisfying your chocolate cravings. Made with wholesome ingredients like almond butter and cocoa powder, they’re the perfect guilt-free treat.

KEY INFO:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 brownies
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Vegan-adaptable, Gluten-free, Dairy-free option

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
2 mixing bowls
Whisk or rubber spatula
Alternative: 9-inch round cake pan (reduce baking time by 5 minutes)

INGREDIENTS:

Wet Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (or 2 eggs for non-vegan)
2/3 cup almond butter, room temperature
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (use dairy-free if needed)

METHOD:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Line baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal
Whisk wet ingredients in a large bowl until completely smooth
Sift dry ingredients into wet mixture
Fold gently until just combined – do not overmix
Fold in chocolate chips
Pour into prepared pan, smoothing top with spatula
Bake for 20-25 minutes until top is crackly and edges pull away
Cool completely before cutting (about 30 minutes)

CRUCIAL TIPS:

Ensure almond butter is room temperature to prevent clumping
Look for moist crumbs on toothpick test – not completely clean
Don’t overbake – brownies continue cooking while cooling

STORAGE & VARIATIONS:

Store at room temperature for 5 days
Freeze for up to 3 months
Add 1/4 cup protein powder for protein brownies
Swap almond butter for tahini if nut-free
Stir in chopped walnuts or raspberries for variation

Common Mistakes:

Using cold ingredients
Overmixing the batter
Overbaking (leads to dry brownies)
Not letting cool completely before cutting

I’ve tested this recipe countless times to achieve the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent. The applesauce keeps them moist while reducing added fats, and almond butter adds protein and healthy fats. Trust me, no one will guess these are healthier than traditional brownies!