Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until combined and there are no lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts:
- Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using).
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
- Cool and Cut:
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares.
Tips for the Best Vegan Brownies:
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your brownies toward the end of the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly underbaked.
- Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Customize: Feel free to add mix-ins like shredded coconut, dried fruit, or other types of nuts to enhance the flavor and texture.
Enjoy!
These Vegan Brownies are a deliciously indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor and fudgy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy them as is, or serve with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an extra special treat!
