Rich and fudgy brownies are packed with superfoods, making them a healthier indulgence without compromising on flavor.
I’ve always believed that just because we’re trying to be more conscious about our diet and lifestyle, it doesn’t mean we should give up on the treats that bring us joy. We hear it all the time—balance is key. So, when I’m craving something indulgent, I like to whip up a batch of these Fudgy Superfood Brownies. They’re rich, chocolatey, and satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt because they’re packed with ingredients that add a little extra nutritional value. It’s my way of enjoying a delicious treat while also feeling good about what I’m putting into my body. Plus, when you incorporate ingredients like dark chocolate, nuts, and seeds, you’re not just treating yourself—you’re nourishing yourself. So, go ahead and enjoy these brownies in moderation. They’re the perfect example of how you can have your cake (or brownie!) and eat it too.
Did You Know?
Dark chocolate, a key ingredient in these brownies, is loaded with antioxidants and minerals. It’s known for improving brain function and lowering the risk of heart disease. By incorporating nuts and seeds, you can boost the nutritional value of these brownies even more, adding healthy fats, protein, and fiber to your diet.
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds
Instructions:
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
Personal Tip: Preheating your oven ensures even baking. Always start by setting your oven to the correct temperature and allowing it to fully heat up before placing your batter inside.
Melt the Chocolate and Butter:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter together, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Personal Tip: Melting chocolate and butter slowly prevents burning. Stirring every 30 seconds helps achieve a smooth consistency.
Mix the Sugars and Eggs:
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Personal Tip: Beating the sugars and eggs together until smooth helps to dissolve the sugars and create a nice, glossy batter.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and stir until well combined. Sift in the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold in the nuts and seeds.
Personal Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients helps avoid clumps and ensures a smoother batter.
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Personal Tip: For extra fudgy brownies, underbake slightly and allow them to set as they cool.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy.
Personal Tip: Allowing the brownies to cool completely ensures they set properly and are easier to cut.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220, Protein: 4g, Carbohydrates: 26g, Sugars: 18g, Total Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Sodium: 85mg, Fiber: 3g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and nutritional benefits. Look for sales or buy in bulk to save money.
Nutrient Boost: Add a tablespoon of spirulina powder or acai powder for additional superfood benefits without altering the flavor significantly.
Sweeteners: Substitute part of the sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile and added minerals.
Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a delicious treat.
Eco-Friendly Baking: Line your baking dish with reusable parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to reduce waste.
Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick, healthy dessert option.
Mix-Ins: Add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for extra sweetness and texture.
Presentation: Dust the cooled brownies with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving for a professional look.
Cost-Saving Tips: Buy nuts and seeds in bulk from stores like Costco or Sam's Club to save money and always have them on hand for baking.
Cacao vs. Cocoa: What’s the Difference?
Cacao and cocoa may sound similar, but they have some distinct differences, both in terms of flavor and health benefits. Cacao is the purest form of chocolate you can consume and is the least processed. It’s rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and iron, and has a more intense, bitter flavor. Cocoa, on the other hand, is cacao that has been roasted at high temperatures. While this process reduces the antioxidant content slightly, it also mellows out the flavor, making it sweeter and more palatable. When choosing between the two, cacao offers more health benefits, but cocoa is still a great option for delicious treats like these brownies, especially when you’re looking for a richer, sweeter taste.