These fudgy Paleo brownies are a delicious, guilt-free treat. Made with wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for anyone following a Paleo diet or looking for a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. This ensures that your brownies will come out of the pan easily without sticking or breaking apart.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined. Ensuring the dry ingredients are mixed thoroughly will help in achieving a uniform batter and even baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. Using room temperature eggs will help prevent the coconut oil from solidifying again.
- Blend Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser brownies. If you prefer extra chocolatey brownies, fold in the dark chocolate chips at this stage.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Ensure the batter is distributed evenly to avoid uneven baking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial as it helps set the brownies and makes them easier to cut. Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, and cut into squares.
Tips for the Perfect Paleo Brownies:
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined to ensure a fudgy texture. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, resulting in a cake-like texture instead of fudgy brownies.
- Check for Doneness: The toothpick test should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean, to avoid overbaking. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies.
- Variations: You can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for extra crunch. Dried fruit, like cherries or cranberries, can also be a delightful addition.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies in a single layer and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Almond Flour: Almond flour is a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It’s also low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for a Paleo diet.
- Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, cocoa powder adds not only a deep chocolate flavor but also health benefits.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a healthy fat that can boost your metabolism and provide quick energy. It also contributes to the moist texture of these brownies.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener, maple syrup provides vitamins and minerals such as zinc and manganese, and it has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar.
The Joy of Baking Paleo Brownies:
Baking these brownies not only gives you a delicious treat but also fills your home with the comforting aroma of chocolate. Sharing them with family and friends can bring a sense of joy and satisfaction, knowing you’re offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste.
Macros Per Serving (Based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
These fudgy Paleo brownies are a delightful, healthy treat perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Enjoy them as a dessert, a snack, or even a quick breakfast on the go. Happy baking!