These beetroot and cocoa brownies offer a delightful surprise, combining rich chocolate with a hidden boost of vegetables. You’ll love how fudgy and moist they are, making them a perfect guilt-free treat. This recipe is an excellent addition to your collection of healthy brownies recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Beetroot Puree: Adds moisture and natural sweetness. You can roast or boil your own beetroots, then blend them. Canned beetroot (drained, no added sugar) works in a pinch.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa for the best chocolate flavor.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar. Granulated sugar can also be used.
- Flour: All-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Eggs: Act as a binder. Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg, let sit 5 mins) can be used for a vegan option.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 cup cooked beetroot puree (about 2 medium beetroots)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark chocolate recommended)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 brownies
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the beetroot puree, maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Pour into Pan and Bake
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared 8×8 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and become perfectly fudgy. Enjoy your healthy brownies recipes creation!
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Brownies: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Spiced Brownies: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Orange Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to brighten the flavor.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl in dollops of sweetened cream cheese mixture before baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store your beetroot and cocoa brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. These brownies also freeze well; wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you taste the beetroot in these brownies?
A: No, the cocoa powder and chocolate are the dominant flavors. The beetroot primarily adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, making them a fantastic healthy brownies recipe.
Q: Do you need to cook the beetroot before adding it to the batter?
A: Yes, you must use cooked beetroot puree. Raw beetroot will not blend smoothly and will alter the texture.
Q: Can you make these brownies gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Q: How do you get a fudgy texture?
A: Do not overbake the brownies. They should still be slightly moist in the center when you remove them from the oven, as they will continue to set as they cool.
Q: What is unsweetened applesauce for?
A: Unsweetened applesauce adds moisture and a natural sweetness, allowing you to reduce the amount of added sugar or syrup in this healthy brownies recipe.
Q: Can you make these vegan?
A: Yes, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
