There is nothing quite like a rich, fudgy treat that fully satisfies your chocolate cravings without any dairy or eggs in sight. This Vegan Brownies Recipe brings together simple pantry staples and a few clever swaps to create a batch of brownies that are moist, chewy, and packed with deep cocoa flavor. Whether you are vegan, dairy-free, or simply in search of a delightful twist on a classic dessert, these brownies are guaranteed to become your go-to sweet fix. Best of all, they are so easy to make that you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for all those moments when you need chocolate comfort fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Vegan Brownies Recipe lies in how straightforward yet thoughtful the ingredients are. Each one plays an important role in achieving the perfect texture, sweetness, and chocolatey richness that make these brownies irresistible.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness that brownies need, ensuring they hold together just right.
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and gives the brownies their luscious dark color.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a touch of lift so the brownies don’t turn out too dense or heavy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate notes.
- 1 cup coconut sugar: A natural, unrefined sweetener that brings subtle caramel undertones and balances the cocoa.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce: This acts as a fantastic egg replacement while keeping the brownies moist and tender.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel, plus a hint of tropical warmth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a lovely aromatic sweetness.
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips: Drops of melted joy inside every bite for extra gooey chocolate bursts.
How to Make Vegan Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to ensure your brownies come out effortlessly once baked. This sets the stage for even cooking and helps the edges develop that perfect, slightly crisp texture.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that your baking powder and salt are evenly distributed and that the cocoa is fully incorporated, which is crucial for uniform flavor throughout.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. These wet ingredients replace traditional eggs and butter, contributing moisture and richness while keeping the brownies entirely plant-based.
Step 4: Mix Until Smooth
Stir everything together until you achieve a smooth, consistent batter free of lumps. This may take a minute or two, but patience here means your brownies will bake evenly and have a perfect crumb.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips, saving some to sprinkle on top if you’d like an extra glossy, melty finish once baked. These little nuggets add bursts of luscious chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Pour and Spread the Batter
Transfer your brownie batter to the greased pan and spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking. Aim for an even layer about a half-inch thick so the brownies have the right balance of fudgy interior and slightly chewy edges.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan to set properly before slicing.
Step 8: Slice and Enjoy
After cooling, cut your brownies into squares, serve, and savor the rich, fudgy goodness. These treats are perfect fresh or at room temperature and keep wonderfully for several days.
How to Serve Vegan Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a finishing touch elevates these brownies from everyday to extraordinary. Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a delicate sweetness and beautiful presentation. For an extra flair, top with crushed nuts or a drizzle of dairy-free caramel sauce to introduce a textural contrast and complementary flavors.
Side Dishes
Vegan brownies pair beautifully with creamy, dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a scoop of coconut milk-based sorbet. The cold creaminess against the dense chocolate creates an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries or a spoonful of homemade raspberry sauce bring a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving warm brownies topped with melted vegan marshmallows or layering brownie crumbs between plant-based whipped cream to create a stunning parfait. You can also turn these brownies into bite-sized truffles by chilling, cubing, and rolling them in cocoa powder or shredded coconut for a decadent party treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and fudgy. If your kitchen is warmer, it’s best to refrigerate the brownies, where they’ll last about a week without losing their delightful texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, these vegan brownies freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite treat anytime.
Reheating
When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw frozen brownies at room temperature for about an hour. For a freshly baked feel, warm a square briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a low oven until just heated through. Enjoy the gooey, melty magic all over again!
FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener for this Vegan Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! While coconut sugar adds a lovely caramel note, you can substitute with brown sugar, maple syrup, or even organic cane sugar. Just keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may require adjusting the wet ingredient amounts slightly.
What if I don’t have applesauce; can I use something else?
Yes! Mashed ripe banana, pumpkin puree, or even a flax egg substitute will work well as moisture and binder replacements in this recipe. Each option will slightly change the flavor and texture, adding your own twist.
How do I make sure my brownies don’t turn out too dry?
Mix the batter until just combined without over-stirring, and watch the baking time carefully—overbaking dries brownies out quickly. Letting them cool fully in the pan also helps them set up perfectly moist.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute a gluten-free baking flour blend to make these brownies safe for those avoiding gluten, just be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binder.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even shredded coconut make delicious additions, adding texture and flavor depth. Simply fold them in with the chocolate chips before baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to experience brownies that meet every chocolate lover’s dream with zero guilt and maximum flavor, this Vegan Brownies Recipe should be your next kitchen adventure. With its ease, delightful taste, and endlessly adaptable nature, these brownies will quickly become a cherished recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in pure plant-based bliss!
Print
Vegan Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 9 servings (3×3 inch squares)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Deliciously rich and fudgy vegan brownies made with wholesome ingredients like cocoa powder, coconut sugar, and applesauce, offering a dairy-free, egg-free treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup coconut sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt to create a uniform dry mixture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients for moisture and flavor.
- Combine the Batter: Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and free of lumps to ensure even baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly for consistent thickness.
- Bake: Bake the batter in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to set the texture.
- Serve: Cut the brownies into squares and serve, enjoying your rich vegan dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut sugar with brown sugar if unavailable.
- Ensure the applesauce is unsweetened to maintain the right sweetness balance.
- Use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the recipe vegan.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature.
