Introduction
Brownies are a classic dessert that can easily evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. However, traditional recipes often come laden with sugar and calories, making them a less-than-ideal choice for those watching their intake. The good news is that you can enjoy a rich, fudgy brownie experience without the guilt of added sugars.
This no-sugar-added brownie recipe is designed for the health-conscious baker who refuses to compromise on taste. Utilizing natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients, these brownies deliver indulgence without the unnecessary calories. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they also cater to various dietary preferences, making them a delightful treat for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups almond flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup medjool date paste (about 15-18 pitted dates)
- ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- ⅓ cup hot water
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, soak the pitted dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them. Once softened, blend the dates until smooth to create a natural sweetener, measuring out 1 cup for the recipe.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure there are no clumps.
- In another bowl, whisk together the date paste, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. If the batter seems too thick, add the remaining hot water gradually until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Fold in the chopped nuts if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
FAQs
What gives these brownies their sweetness without added sugar?
The sweetness comes from medjool dates, which are naturally sweet and provide a rich flavor.
What texture should I expect from these brownies?
These brownies will be fudgy and dense, with a moist crumb due to the date paste and applesauce.
Can I use a different type of sweetener in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the date paste with other natural sweeteners like maple syrup, but adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
What if my brownie batter is too thick?
If the batter is too thick, gradually add more hot water until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan to accommodate the increased volume.
Why are my brownies not rising?
If your brownies are not rising, it could be due to expired baking powder. Ensure it's fresh before using it.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Yes, adding sugar-free chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture, making them even more indulgent.
What can I do if my brownies come out too dry?
If your brownies are dry, check your baking time and ensure you are measuring ingredients accurately, particularly the wet ingredients.
Conclusion
Enjoying dessert doesn't have to mean sacrificing your health goals. With these no-sugar-added brownies, you can treat yourself while maintaining a balanced diet. Their rich flavor and fudgy texture make them a satisfying option for any occasion.
Whether you're indulging after dinner or sharing with friends, these brownies are sure to impress. So preheat your oven and get ready to savor a guilt-free treat that everyone can enjoy!
Recipe Card
Indulge Without Guilt: No-Sugar Added Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, soak the pitted dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them. Once softened, blend the dates until smooth to create a natural sweetener, measuring out 1 cup for the recipe.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure there are no clumps.
- In another bowl, whisk together the date paste, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. If the batter seems too thick, add the remaining hot water gradually until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Fold in the chopped nuts if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
