A vegan brownie can be tricky. It looks easy, but is only easy if you know the tricks. Making a rich, dense and fudgy brownie without the traditional ingredients like eggs, butter, or gluten requires both patience and a careful selection of alternatives. Using elements like xanthan gum for structure and applesauce for moisture is an acquired wisdom of vegan bakers. Learn the simple techniques so you can enjoy brownies with the ideal texture and depth of flavor, all while keeping them vegan and gluten-free.
Key Ingredients
1. Applesauce and Canola Oil as egg substitute
In traditional brownies, eggs are essential for binding and lending that coveted fudgy texture. To replicate this without animal products, a 2:1 ratio of applesauce and canola oil acts as a perfect alternative, adding moisture and tenderness. Applesauce keeps the batter moist, while canola oil provides a subtle richness, both working together to achieve the classic fudgy consistency.
2. Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a plant-derived thickener that mimics gluten’s elasticity, crucial for gluten-free baking. In this brownie recipe, it helps bind the ingredients and adds volume, giving that dense, chewy bite that everyone loves.
3. Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips
These chocolate chips add an extra layer of indulgence and depth to the brownies, bringing in that luxurious chocolate flavor you expect in a brownie without dairy.
Ingredients
Directions
1. Preheat and prepare
Preheat the oven to 165°C. Spray two mini muffin pans generously with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and xanthan gum until thoroughly combined. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.
3. Combine the wet ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the applesauce, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients, folding gently until a thick, glossy batter forms.
4. Incorporate the chocolate chips
Gently fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly spread throughout the batter.
5. Fill the muffin tins
Using a spoon, fill each mini muffin cup about three-quarters full with the brownie batter. This will help them maintain shape as they bake.
6. Bake to perfection
Place the muffin pans in the oven and bake at 165°C for approximately 15 minutes, or until the tops of the brownies are just set.
7. Cool and serve
Allow the brownies to cool in the muffin tins for 15 minutes. Then, turn them out onto a cooling rack to finish cooling completely. Enjoy these delightfully fudgy, rich vegan brownies as they are or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
Flavoring options:
Mint Chocolate is a refreshing option that can be easily achieved by adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter. For a festive touch, consider topping your brownies with crushed peppermint candies, which will add both flavor and a bit of crunch.
For coffee lovers, simply incorporate a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the dry ingredients to give your brownies a rich, coffee-infused chocolate flavor. This combination can create an indulgent treat that satisfies both chocolate and coffee cravings.
If you're looking for a bit of texture, consider using nuts. Mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans not only adds crunch but also enhances the overall flavor profile. For a creamier experience, swirl in some almond or hazelnut butter, which can create a delightful nutty undertone that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
Check out these plant-based snack ideas, vegan pie filling ideas, andvegan low-cal pancakes for your dessert counter as you celebrate your lifestyle choices every day!