Brownies are a beloved treat for many, but traditional recipes often include eggs and dairy, making them unsuitable for those following a vegan lifestyle or for those with certain dietary restrictions.
Luckily, there’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy rich, fudgy brownies without any animal products. Using applesauce as an egg substitute not only keeps these brownies vegan but also adds a subtle natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a perfect texture every time.
This vegan applesauce brownie recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bake a healthier, more compassionate dessert without compromising flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based baking, these brownies will quickly become a favorite.
They’re simple to make, require common pantry ingredients, and are wonderfully adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready for a chocolatey, guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines ease, taste, and health benefits in one delicious package. Here’s why it stands out:
- Egg-Free and Dairy-Free: Perfect for vegans and those with allergies or intolerances.
- Applesauce as a binder: Adds moisture and natural sweetness without the fat of oil or butter.
- Rich and fudgy texture: Despite the absence of eggs, the brownies remain dense and chewy.
- Quick and straightforward: No complicated steps or obscure ingredients, making it beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: Easily add nuts, vegan chocolate chips, or dried fruit for variety.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a healthier option)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a natural alternative)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as the egg substitute)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil or vegan butter)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped vegan chocolate (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with non-stick spray.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, stir together the unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold everything together gently. Stir just until combined; do not overmix.
- Add optional mix-ins: Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using. These add extra texture and flavor to your brownies.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool: Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before slicing. This helps the brownies set properly and slice cleanly.
- Serve and enjoy! Cut into squares and enjoy your fudgy, vegan brownies.
Tips & Variations
For the best fudgy texture, avoid overbaking. Keep an eye on your brownies starting at 25 minutes.
- Swap the flour: Use gluten-free flour blends if you need a gluten-free version.
- Add espresso powder: A teaspoon of instant espresso enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.
- Use maple syrup or agave: Replace granulated sugar with liquid sweeteners for a different sweetness profile.
- Top with vegan frosting: For a special occasion, add a layer of vegan chocolate ganache or frosting.
- Make it nut-free: Skip the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Boost nutrition: Stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 brownie) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Fat | 9 g |
Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 17 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Sodium | 100 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delicious on their own but can be served in many delightful ways:
- Warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- Drizzle with dairy-free caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with fresh berries or a fruit compote to balance the richness.
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or plant-based milk for a satisfying snack.
Conclusion
Making vegan brownies with applesauce is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dessert without eggs or dairy. This recipe delivers a moist, fudgy, and flavorful treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences or restrictions.
The use of applesauce not only replaces eggs but also adds a subtle sweetness and keeps the texture perfect. Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for last-minute baking cravings or for impressing guests with something both tasty and compassionate.
If you love experimenting with vegan and plant-based baking, be sure to check out other recipes like our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a savory meal, or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Lemon Straws Recipe.
For something completely different but equally delicious, try the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe to diversify your cooking repertoire.
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Applesauce Brownies
Description: Deliciously fudgy vegan brownies made with applesauce as a natural egg substitute. Perfectly moist and rich without any dairy or eggs.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 9 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix applesauce, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts if using.
- 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: 7 g | Carbs: 28 g
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