Craving a rich, chocolatey treat that’s surprisingly good for you? These Fudgy Flourless Avocado Brownies are incredibly moist, intensely chocolatey, and a perfect healthy avocado recipe for dessert lovers. You won’t believe how delicious and easy they are to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Avocados: Ripe, soft avocados are essential for the fudgy texture. Don’t substitute these!
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder. Cacao powder works too.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar are great natural choices.
- Flour: This recipe is flourless, using cocoa powder and avocado for structure.
- Chocolate Chips: Opt for dark chocolate chips for an extra rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 medium ripe avocados, pitted and scooped (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or cashew butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, plus extra for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 9 brownies
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, food processor or blender, mixing bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
2. Blend the Wet Ingredients
Add the scooped avocado, maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract to a food processor or high-speed blender. Process until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no avocado lumps remain. This creates the essential base for your fudgy flourless avocado brownies.
3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Pour the avocado mixture into the dry ingredients. Fold everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips into the brownie batter. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. If desired, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top.
5. Bake the Brownies
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Avoid overbaking to maintain their fudgy texture. Let them cool completely before slicing.
Variation Ideas
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture.
- Minty Fresh: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Espresso Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store your Fudgy Flourless Avocado Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual brownies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can you taste the avocado in these brownies? No, the avocado flavor is completely masked by the rich chocolate and sweetener. It simply provides moisture and healthy fats.
- Are these brownies gluten-free? Yes, since they are flourless, these brownies are naturally gluten-free.
- Can you use regular sugar instead of maple syrup? While you can, maple syrup contributes to the moist, fudgy texture. If using granulated sugar, you might need to add a touch more liquid.
- How do you know when the avocados are ripe enough? Ripe avocados will feel soft when gently squeezed and the stem will easily come off.
- Are these healthy avocado recipes suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe uses plant-based ingredients and is suitable for a vegan diet.
- Can you make these in a different sized pan? An 8×8 inch pan works best for thickness. If using a larger pan, adjust baking time as they will be thinner.
