Once a rare indulgence, brownies now deserve to be a regular treat!
While the exact numbers vary, a traditional brownie serving contains nearly 400 calories, half of which comes from fat. The recipe usually calls for butter, unsweetened chocolate, white sugar, eggs, and all-purpose flour, all of which add no nutritional value. This recipe is a sugar-free, vegan alternative to traditional brownies, using whole-wheat and maple syrup as the base. It’s a delicious and guilt-free way to get the dense chocolate taste you crave!
The sugar, dairy, and egg-free benefits of this recipe aside, these brownies contain one of the healthiest nuts – walnuts! Walnuts contain healthy omega-3s, which protect arteries and improve brain function. The nut also prevents gallstones, is a rich source of melatonin, which helps you sleep, contributes to bone health, stops weight gain, and helps treat diabetes.
Vegan Brownies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole-wheat flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup canola oil (or coconut oil)
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Directions:
Combine the dry ingredients (but only 1/2 cup of the chopped walnuts) in a large bowl.
Mix the wet ingredients in a separate bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until evenly combined. The mixture will be thick.
Spread into an ungreased 8×8 glass pan, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 20-25 minutes. To check if it’s ready, push down on the center with your index finger. If you sense resistance, it’s done.
Serve and enjoy some guilt-free chocolate decadence!
Bon Appetit!
Images: Jeffry W., Aylin Erman
Aylin Erman currently resides in Istanbul and is creator of plant-based recipe website GlowKitchen.