You Can Never Go Wrong With Easy To Make Brownies
When I think back to my early baking days, brownies were one of the first desserts I ever mastered. They’re the kind of treat that almost every home baker has tried at least once, and with good reason—who doesn’t love a warm, fudgy square of chocolate goodness? Over the years, I’ve experimented with different recipes and styles, but there’s something special about these Double Chocolate Almond Brownies. With the addition of almond flour and applesauce, they’re a bit more refined, but still simple enough to whip up whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these brownies are sure to impress, and the best part? They’re as delicious as they are easy to make.
Did You Know?
These Double Chocolate Almond Brownies are not only rich and indulgent but also cater to various dietary preferences. They include both almond flour and all-purpose flour, which provides a balance of flavor and texture. The use of almond flour adds a nutty flavor and boosts the protein content, making these brownies a satisfying treat for those looking to enjoy a dessert with a nutritious twist. You can also make them dairy-free by using dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream in the frosting.
Yield: Makes 12 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (for sprinkling on top)
For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Personal Tip: Parchment paper helps the brownies lift out easily and prevents sticking. -
Prepare the Brownies
In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate, cocoa powder, applesauce, coconut oil, eggs, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Personal Tip: Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before mixing with the eggs to prevent scrambling.
In another bowl, mix the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the slivered almonds.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Personal Tip: For an extra crunch, reserve a few slivered almonds to sprinkle on top before baking. -
Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Personal Tip: Slightly underbaking the brownies ensures a fudgy texture. -
Prepare the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk or cream. Beat on high until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add an additional tablespoon of milk or cream if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Personal Tip: Whip the frosting for a few extra minutes to make it extra light and airy. -
Frost the Brownies
Spread the chocolate buttercream frosting over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle on the chocolate chip garnish.
Personal Tip: For a smoother finish, warm the frosting slightly before spreading. -
Serve
Once the frosting is set, cut into 12 squares and serve. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dessert!
Personal Tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to cut clean slices.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 340, Fat: 23g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Carbohydrates: 33g, Fiber: 4g, Sugars: 24g, Protein: 5g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
-
Buy Ingredients in Bulk: Purchase almond flour, dark chocolate chips, and honey/maple syrup in larger quantities to save money per serving. Look for discounts at bulk food stores or online retailers.
-
Opt for Seasonal Sales: Stock up on baking essentials like cocoa powder and coconut oil during seasonal sales or promotions. Many stores offer discounts around holidays or during clearance events.
-
Substitute with Pantry Staples: Replace almond flour with ground oats or another gluten-free flour you have on hand. Use regular chocolate chips if dark chocolate chips are too expensive or substitute honey with maple syrup based on availability and cost.
-
Make Your Own Applesauce: Instead of buying pre-made applesauce, make your own by cooking down peeled and chopped apples with a bit of water until soft. It’s economical and allows you to control the sweetness.
-
Use Walnuts Sparingly: If walnuts are pricey or not preferred, consider omitting them or substituting with chopped almonds or pecans. Nuts can be expensive, so using them sparingly can help manage costs.
-
DIY Coconut Cream: Make your own coconut cream by refrigerating a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight. Skim the solid cream from the top, leaving the liquid behind. This homemade version is cost-effective compared to store-bought coconut cream.
-
Portion Control: Cut the brownies into smaller squares to serve more people or to make them last longer. Smaller portions can satisfy a sweet craving without overindulging.
-
Freeze Extra Brownies: Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. Thaw them as needed for a quick dessert or snack, reducing food waste and ensuring you always have a treat on hand.
-
Share and Enjoy: Share these brownies with friends or family during gatherings or potlucks. Sharing desserts not only spreads joy but also ensures everyone gets a taste without one person bearing the entire cost.
-
Plan Ahead for Special Occasions: Consider making these brownies for special occasions or celebrations. By planning ahead, you can budget for ingredients and time, ensuring everything goes smoothly and stress-free.
Why Is Almond Flour Becoming Popular?
Almond flour is quickly gaining popularity among bakers and health enthusiasts alike, and for good reason. Unlike traditional wheat flour, almond flour is made from finely ground almonds, making it naturally gluten-free and rich in protein. It's also high in healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins like Vitamin E, which is great for skin health. The nutty flavor of almond flour adds depth to baked goods, making them more flavorful and satisfying. Plus, almond flour has a lower glycemic index compared to regular flour, meaning it has a less dramatic impact on blood sugar levels. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs, avoid gluten, or simply enjoy a more nutrient-dense option, almond flour is a fantastic choice for baking.