Description

These Healthy Applesauce Brownies are a delicious vegan and eggless treat that combines the rich flavor of cocoa with the natural sweetness of applesauce. Using oat flour and light olive oil, they’re a wholesome dessert option perfect for those seeking a plant-based and gluten-free friendly recipe. Moist, fudgy, and slightly chocolaty, these brownies are simple to prepare and bake in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup light olive oil (or another neutral-tasting oil)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

1 3/4 cup oat flour (use gluten-free if needed)
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon instant coffee (or espresso powder)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)

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Instructions

Dissolve sugar: Add water and sugar to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 3-5 minutes, stirring every 60 seconds, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Alternatively, heat the mixture over medium-low heat on the stovetop until dissolved.
Combine wet ingredients: Pour the sugar syrup into a mixing bowl along with the unsweetened applesauce, light olive oil, and vanilla extract. Fold gently to combine all wet ingredients evenly.
Mix dry ingredients: Add oat flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, instant coffee, and chocolate chips into the wet mixture. Stir until the batter is fully incorporated and no lumps remain.
Prepare baking pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the brownie batter into the pan and spread it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for a more chocolatey finish.
Bake the brownies: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating fudgy brownies.
Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before slicing and serving to achieve the perfect texture.

Notes

Use gluten-free oat flour to make these brownies gluten-free.
Instant coffee enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted if desired.
For added texture, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top before baking.
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
To make the sugar syrup on the stovetop, heat water and sugar over medium-low heat until the sugar fully dissolves, stirring frequently.