Healthy Vegan Brownies Recipe
If you’re craving something fudgy, chocolatey, and completely guilt-free, look no further than these Healthy Vegan Brownies. With their decadent chewy texture and rich cocoa flavor, you’d never guess they rely on wholesome, plant-based ingredients. Ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup supply natural sweetness, while vegan chocolate chips add that perfect melty bite. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or simply looking for a lighter treat, these brownies deliver all the indulgence you want—no compromise necessary!
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s truly amazing how just a handful of simple ingredients can transform into something so delicious! Each component in these Healthy Vegan Brownies adds a special touch, working together to create a snack that’s irresistibly moist and chocolate-packed every time.
- Banana: The secret to these brownies’ tender crumb and subtle sweetness—make sure it’s ripe for maximum flavor.
- Maple syrup or agave: Natural liquid sweetener that blends beautifully and adds a gentle, earthy sweetness.
- Unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk): Keeps everything moist and brings all the ingredients together without any dairy.
- Pure vanilla: Just a splash deepens the chocolate flavor and brings warmth to every bite.
- Whole wheat pastry flour: Lighter than regular whole wheat flour, it gives these brownies a soft, fluffy texture while keeping them wholesome.
- Raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder: For that deep, rich chocolate flavor—don’t skimp here!
- Baking soda (not baking powder): Ensures just the right lift and keeps the brownies from getting dense.
- Salt: A tiny pinch is all you need to bring out every nuance of chocolatey goodness.
- Vegan chocolate chips: Mini chips work especially well, melting into delightful pockets throughout the brownies.
- Nuts (chopped walnuts, pecans, or pistachio): Optional, but they add irresistible crunch and extra flavor.
How to Make Healthy Vegan Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400˚F. Getting the oven hot before you begin mixing ensures your brownies bake evenly and rise perfectly once they’re popped in the oven.
Step 2: Mash and Mix the Wet Ingredients
Grab your ripest banana and mash it thoroughly in a large mixing bowl. Aim for mostly smooth, but it’s totally fine if you have a few little lumps remaining—they’ll melt right in. Stir in the maple syrup, plant milk, and vanilla, mixing until completely blended. The heavenly aroma is already a sign you’re on the right track!
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Add your whole wheat pastry flour, cacao or cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt directly into the bowl with your wet ingredients. Give everything a gentle mix just until you no longer see dry spots—don’t overmix! The batter might appear on the thick side, but that’s exactly what you want for rich, fudgy Healthy Vegan Brownies.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Sprinkle in those vegan chocolate chips and any nuts you like. Gently fold them through the batter, making sure every bite will have a little chocolatey crunch. If you want a truly nut-free version, just skip them—your brownies will still be amazing.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line your 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal (and minimal cleanup!). Scoop the brownie mixture in, spreading it out with a spatula to even the surface. Don’t worry if it looks a bit rustic—it will settle as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—when it comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay), they’re ready! Over-baking will make them dry, so keep a close eye out.
Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy!
Patience is key here—let your brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. This resting time helps them set, so you’ll get those beautiful, sharp-edged pieces. Once cool, cut into 12 small or 9 larger brownies. Grab your favorite mug of coffee or glass of oat milk and dig in!
How to Serve Healthy Vegan Brownies
Garnishes
For a professional (and tasty) touch, scatter extra vegan chocolate chips or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the warm brownies. If you’re feeling fancy, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate will make these Healthy Vegan Brownies even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pairing your brownies with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream is pure dessert bliss. For a wholesome twist, serve with slices of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or even oranges to brighten every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking brownie pieces in a pretty dessert glass with layers of fruit and fresh mint for a trifle-style presentation, or wrap individual squares in parchment and tie with twine for a charming homemade gift. These Healthy Vegan Brownies turn any moment into an occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Rest assured—if you have leftovers (good luck!), these brownies stay moist and tasty for several days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or pop them in the fridge for a week of fudgy snacking.
Freezing
Want to stash some Healthy Vegan Brownies for later? Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole batch tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to two months—just thaw overnight or on the counter before diving in.
Reheating
If you love warm brownies, give them a quick 10-15 second spin in the microwave. They’ll turn soft and gooey again, as if they were just baked. Be careful not to overheat—just a short burst brings them back to perfection.
FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup or agave?
Absolutely! Any liquid sweetener like brown rice syrup or date syrup works well in these Healthy Vegan Brownies. Just keep the texture in mind—stick to liquid, not granulated, sweeteners for best results.
What can I use instead of banana?
If you’re not a banana fan or don’t have any on hand, unsweetened applesauce makes a great substitute. It offers the same moisture and light sweetness, keeping these brownies deliciously tender.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the whole wheat pastry flour for a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture might be slightly softer, but your Healthy Vegan Brownies will still be delightful!
Are the nuts necessary?
Not at all—the brownies are fabulous with or without nuts. If you prefer a smoother bite or need a nut-free dessert, just leave them out or swap for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin instead.
How can I make extra fudgy brownies?
For an ultra-fudgy result, slightly underbake your brownies by a minute or two, and make sure not to add extra liquid to the batter. The natural moisture from the banana will do all the magic!
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Vegan Brownies are my go-to treat whenever I want something truly satisfying that I can feel good about sharing. They’re so easy to whip up, and each bite is a beautiful blend of chocolate, chewiness, and that classic homemade feel. Go ahead—give them a try and see why these are about to become your favorite healthier brownie, too!
Print
Healthy Vegan Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 9 large pieces or 12 small pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Indulge in these guilt-free Healthy Vegan Brownies that are moist, chocolaty, and packed with wholesome ingredients. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping your diet on track.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 medium banana, ripened
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or plant milk of choice)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla
Dry Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1/4 cup raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (NOT BAKING POWDER)
- 1/8 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips
- Nuts: chopped walnuts, pecans, or pistachios
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400˚F.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Mash banana in a bowl and mix in maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate flour, cacao powder, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips into the wet mixture.
- Bake: Spread the batter in a lined baking pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool and Slice: Let the brownies cool for 20 minutes, then slice into pieces.
- Serve: Enjoy these delectable vegan brownies!
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small piece (assuming 12 pieces)
- Calories: Approx. 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Healthy, Vegan, Brownies, Dessert, Chocolate, Gluten-Free
