Weight Watchers Fudge Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar or a sugar substitute (like Stevia or Splenda)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, mix together the applesauce, melted butter, sugar (or sugar substitute), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
   • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Optional: Add Chocolate Chips:
   • Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
6. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
   • Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
7. Cool:
   • Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Cut and Serve:
   • Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.