Welcome to the ultimate guide for making vegan brownies from scratch that are rich, fudgy, and utterly delicious. If you’ve ever thought that vegan desserts lack flavor or texture, prepare to be surprised.
This recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create the perfect balance of gooey chocolate goodness without any animal products. Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle or simply want to try something new, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time. Plus, these brownies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or just treating yourself after a long day.
Ready to dive into a guilt-free indulgence? Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vegan brownies are a game-changer for several reasons. First, they’re made from scratch, meaning no boxed mixes or artificial additives.
This ensures you know exactly what’s going into your dessert. Second, the texture is perfectly fudgy on the inside with just the right amount of chewiness on the edges — something not always easy to achieve in vegan baking.
Additionally, this recipe uses natural sweeteners and plant-based fats to keep the brownies moist and flavorful. You’ll love how easily adaptable this recipe is, allowing you to add nuts, dairy-free chocolate chips, or a swirl of peanut butter for extra indulgence.
Finally, these brownies are a crowd-pleaser, vegan or not, so keep a batch handy for your next get-together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 cup organic cane sugar or coconut sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ½ cup melted coconut oil or vegan butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps with leavening and texture)
- ½ cup vegan chocolate chips (optional but highly recommended)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (at least two)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 9×9 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk until evenly mixed to avoid lumps.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar until fully combined.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — a few lumps are okay.
- Add extras: Fold in the vegan chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using. These add delightful texture and bursts of chocolate.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan: Spread evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness for even baking.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. This step is crucial for the brownies to set properly and develop their fudgy texture.
- Slice and serve: Once cool, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
Tip: For an extra fudgy texture, slightly underbake the brownies and allow residual heat to finish the job.
Variation: Swap the cocoa powder for equal parts melted vegan dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Tip: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.
Variation: Mix in ¼ cup shredded coconut or vegan caramel bits for a unique twist.
For those who love nuts, try substituting walnuts with pecans or even macadamia nuts. You can also experiment with adding dried fruit like cherries or cranberries for a tart contrast.
If you want to make these brownies gluten-free, use a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend and check that your baking powder is gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 brownie, approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Fat | 10 g |
Saturated Fat | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 15 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Sodium | 90 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Try warming a brownie slightly and topping it with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream for a decadent dessert.
You can also drizzle melted vegan chocolate or a homemade caramel sauce for added indulgence.
For a lighter treat, pair the brownies with fresh berries and a dollop of coconut whipped cream. They also make a perfect portable snack for picnics or lunchboxes.
If you want to impress guests, serve your brownies alongside a rich vegan hot chocolate or a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Conclusion
Making brownies from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated, and with this vegan recipe, it’s also cruelty-free and delicious. These brownies prove that you don’t need eggs, dairy, or artificial ingredients to create a moist, fudgy treat that everyone will love.
The combination of simple pantry staples, thoughtful techniques, and optional add-ins makes this recipe a staple for anyone looking to enjoy a classic dessert with a plant-based twist.
Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, these brownies will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to try out some of the tips and variations to customize the brownies to your liking.
And if you’re interested in exploring more plant-based delights, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for more inspiration. For a cozy fall option, the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food is sure to satisfy your cravings.
📖 Recipe Card: Brownie Recipe from Scratch Vegan
Description: Deliciously fudgy vegan brownies made from simple ingredients. Perfect for a chocolate treat without any animal products.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 9 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 27 g
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