BEST Vegan Brownies

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate vegan brownie recipe that delivers on taste and texture without any compromise, you’ve landed in the right place! These BEST Vegan Brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly satisfying. Made with wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth while keeping it plant-based. Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or just love a good brownie, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There’s something magical about these BEST Vegan Brownies. They’re not only easy to make, but they also have a depth of flavor that will satisfy even the most discerning chocolate lover. The combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and melted chocolate creates a rich, decadent base, while the applesauce keeps them moist and chewy. Plus, they come together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

What You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful brownies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 ounces unsweetened applesauce (about 1/2 cup)
• 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (vegan)

Equipment Breakdown

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine your ingredients.
• Whisk or Spatula: For mixing everything together smoothly.
• 8×8 inch Baking Pan: Ideal for achieving that perfect brownie thickness.
• Oven: Preheat it to ensure your brownies bake evenly.

Make BEST Vegan Brownies: A Simple Method

Ready to get baking? Follow these straightforward steps to create your very own BEST Vegan Brownies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure that your brownies bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture will serve as the sweet base for your brownies.

Step 3: Add Applesauce and Chocolate

Next, mix in the unsweetened applesauce and the melted chocolate. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy, ensuring all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Sift in Dry Ingredients

Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and all-purpose flour. Use a spatula to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix – a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips

Finally, fold in the vegan semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared 8×8 inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy these delectable BEST Vegan Brownies with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream for an extra special treat!

Healthier Substitutions

Want to make these brownies even healthier? Consider these substitutions:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Natural Sweeteners: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar.
• Nut Butter: Substitute vegetable oil with almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor and extra protein.
• Flax Egg: Replace applesauce with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a different texture.

Flavor Logic

These BEST Vegan Brownies are designed for chocolate lovers. The unsweetened cocoa powder provides a rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar, while the melted chocolate deepens that flavor profile, creating a fudgy texture that is hard to resist. The addition of applesauce not only keeps the brownies moist but also adds a hint of natural sweetness, making them a perfect balance of indulgence and wholesome ingredients.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your brownies fresh and delectable, consider these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezer: You can freeze brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Your Top Questions

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil, canola oil, or even melted vegan butter if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What can I use instead of unsweetened chocolate?

If you don’t have unsweetened chocolate on hand, you can use an additional 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil as a substitute.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit to the batter for some extra texture and flavor.

More from the Kitchen

If you love these BEST Vegan Brownies, you might also enjoy:

• Chocolate Almond Toffee Bark – A crunchy, sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing.
• Peppermint Mocha Brownie Trifle – An indulgent dessert that layers rich brownie pieces with creamy goodness.

The Last Word

These BEST Vegan Brownies promise to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving them at a party or just enjoying a quiet night in. They offer the perfect blend of richness and sweetness without any animal products. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, you’ll find yourself making these brownies again and again. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe today!

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