Description
Rich and fudgy peanut butter brownies with a perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter flavors, moist and chewy with a healthier twist using natural ingredients.
Ingredients
1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.
- Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Notes
Use natural peanut butter for best texture and flavor.
Maple syrup can be substituted with honey.
Whole wheat flour adds nutrition but all-purpose flour can be used.
Optional: add chopped nuts or swirl melted dark chocolate before baking for variation.
Store brownies in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat brownies in microwave for 15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
