Better-for-You Brownies

Better-for-You Brownies Recipe | Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 16 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of Better-for-You Brownies, a recipe that promises the decadent taste of traditional brownies but with a healthier twist. Crafted for those who seek to satisfy their sweet tooth without compromising on health, this recipe incorporates wholesome ingredients like unsweetened cocoa powder, dates, and walnuts. Perfect for health-conscious dessert lovers, these brownies offer a guilt-free treat that doesn't skimp on flavor.

History

The journey of creating healthier versions of beloved desserts has been long and fruitful, leading to the birth of recipes like these Better-for-You Brownies. The idea was to create a dessert that maintained the rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor of classic brownies while reducing unhealthy fats and refined sugars. By experimenting with natural sweeteners like dates and incorporating nuts for added nutrients, a new version was born, offering a delicious way to enjoy a favorite treat with added health benefits.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
0.5 cup of pitted chopped dates
1 tsp of instant coffee granules
0.5 cup of boiling water
0.33 cup of walnut halves
0.67 cup of all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp of baking powder
0.25 tsp of salt
1 large egg
1 large egg white
1 cup plus 1 tbsp of sugar
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 tsp of vanilla extract

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Coat a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, combine cocoa, dates, and coffee.
Add boiling water and stir until the cocoa has dissolved.
Let it stand until completely cool, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, spread walnuts in a shallow baking pan and bake until lightly toasted and fragrant, for 4 to 6 minutes.
Set them aside to cool. Keep the oven on.
In a food processor, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and toasted walnuts; process until the walnuts are ground.
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and set it aside.
With a rubber spatula, scrape the cooled cocoa mixture into the food processor.
Add the egg, egg white, 1 cup of sugar, oil, and vanilla. Process until smooth, stopping once or twice to scrape down the sides of the work bowl.
Add the mixture to the reserved flour mixture and stir just until the dry ingredients are moistened.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle with the remaining 1 tbsp of sugar.
Bake until the brownies are firm around the edges and just set in the center, for 25 to 30 minutes.
Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
To serve, coat a sharp knife with cooking spray and cut into 16 squares.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
To make these brownies vegan, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and egg white, and ensure your sugar is vegan.
Add in a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs for an extra chocolatey punch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Better-for-You Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips and tricks:

- Use high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.

- Ensure dates are fresh and soft for easier blending and a natural sweetness.

- Toasting walnuts before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and crunch.

- Let the cocoa mixture cool completely before adding it to the other ingredients to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.

- For a smoother texture, process the batter well until fully combined and smooth.

- Do not overbake; brownies should be moist and slightly fudgy in the center.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these brownies as a standalone treat or complement them with a scoop of your favorite low-fat ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein. They're also perfect with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon snack.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe utilizes both baking and food processing techniques. Baking the walnuts before processing them into the flour mixture enhances their flavor, while processing the wet ingredients ensures a smooth, well-combined batter that results in moist and fudgy brownies.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour for a lower-carb option.

- Use maple syrup or honey in place of sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.

- Avocado oil can be used instead of vegetable oil for a healthier fat option.

Make Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these brownies on a platter, dusted with a little extra cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Better-for-You Brownies with a glass of almond milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful treat. For a dessert wine pairing, choose a Port or a sweet Sherry to complement the rich chocolate flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds or until just warm. If frozen, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Better-for-You Brownies contains approximately 150 calories. This makes them a lighter option compared to traditional brownie recipes, which can have upwards of 200 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these Better-for-You Brownies contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are all-purpose flour and dates. Dates not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute fiber, making these brownies a more blood sugar-friendly option compared to traditional recipes.

Fats

These brownies contain healthier fats, thanks to the inclusion of vegetable oil and walnuts. Each serving has about 5 grams of fat, with a mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These heart-healthy fats are a better alternative to the saturated fats found in many store-bought or traditional brownie recipes.

Proteins

With approximately 3 grams of protein per serving, these brownies offer a modest contribution to your daily protein intake. The protein comes from the eggs and walnuts, providing a small but valuable boost to this nutrient-rich treat.

Vitamins and minerals

Thanks to the dates and walnuts, these brownies are a source of essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients support overall health, from muscle function to brain health.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (walnuts). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should take caution or consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, these Better-for-You Brownies offer a healthier alternative to traditional brownies by incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients like dates and walnuts, using less refined sugar, and including healthy fats. They provide a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option for a sweet treat.

Summary

Better-for-You Brownies offer a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional brownie recipes without sacrificing flavor or texture. With wholesome ingredients like unsweetened cocoa powder, dates, and walnuts, these brownies provide a nutrient-rich treat that can be enjoyed guilt-free. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, they're easy to make and can be customized to suit various dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a healthier dessert option or simply love brownies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a simple recipe for Better-for-You Brownies that promised to be both delicious and healthier than the usual chocolatey treat. As someone who loves to cook and bake, I was always on the lookout for new recipes to try out, especially ones that offered a healthier alternative.

I came across this recipe one day when I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her amazing baking skills, and she always had a stash of delicious treats on hand whenever I came over for a visit. On this particular day, she handed me a plate of brownies and told me that they were a new recipe she had been working on. As soon as I took a bite, I knew that I had to have the recipe.

Mrs. Jenkins was more than happy to share the recipe with me, and she explained that she had been experimenting with different ingredients to make a healthier version of brownies. She had swapped out the butter for applesauce, used whole wheat flour instead of white flour, and added in some extra dark chocolate for a rich, decadent flavor. The result was a deliciously moist and fudgy brownie that was lower in fat and sugar than traditional recipes.

I was so impressed by Mrs. Jenkins' Better-for-You Brownies that I knew I had to make them for my family. I gathered all the ingredients and followed the recipe to a tee, making sure to use the highest quality ingredients I could find. As the brownies baked in the oven, my kitchen filled with the warm, chocolaty aroma that always reminds me of home.

When the brownies were finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in and see if they tasted as good as Mrs. Jenkins' did. I cut myself a generous slice and took a bite, savoring the rich, chocolatey flavor and the moist, fudgy texture. They were absolutely delicious, and I was thrilled to have a healthier version of one of my favorite treats to enjoy.

I made the Better-for-You Brownies for my family that night, and they were an instant hit. My husband and children couldn't believe that they were eating something that tasted so decadent while still being better for them. From that day on, the recipe became a staple in our household, and I would make a batch of brownies at least once a week.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Better-for-You Brownies for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have shared it with countless people, and it has become a favorite among all who try it. I have even made them for bake sales and potlucks, where they are always the first to disappear.

As I reflect on the journey of how I learned to make the Better-for-You Brownies, I am reminded of the power of sharing recipes and the joy that comes from creating something delicious to share with others. Mrs. Jenkins' generosity in sharing her recipe with me has allowed me to spread a little bit of happiness and healthiness wherever I go, one brownie at a time.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a sweet treat that won't leave you feeling guilty, give my Better-for-You Brownies a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll be inspired to share the recipe with someone else, just as Mrs. Jenkins did with me. Happy baking!