Imagine biting into pure chocolate bliss—rich, fudgy, and downright irresistible, yet surprisingly good for you. That’s what you get with these Vegan Healthy Brownies: a delightful treat that brings together wholesome, plant-based ingredients for a dessert that feels indulgent without the guilt. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, treating your family, or getting cozy with a square (or two) after dinner, you’ll be amazed at just how delicious vegan baking can be—especially when it’s this healthy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Vegan Healthy Brownies is refreshingly simple, and each item serves a meaningful purpose in building that trademark taste and texture. The beauty lies in how these staples come together—giving you decadent results with nothing artificial or complicated.
- Wholemeal spelt flour: Brings nuttiness and wholesome fiber to every bite, supporting a fudgy yet hearty brownie base.
- Cocoa powder: Provides robust chocolate flavor and that classic deep brown color.
- Baking powder: Offers just the right lift for a soft, cake-like crumb without making brownies too airy.
- Baking soda: Adds to the rise and balances flavors, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Coconut sugar: Sweetens naturally and lends a wonderful caramel undertone.
- Stevia: Keeps things sweet with less overall sugar—smart and satisfying.
- Salt: Enhances every other flavor, making the chocolate pop!
- Instant coffee (optional): Subtly deepens chocolate flavor—try it, and you’ll notice the difference!
- Vegan chocolate chips: Give pockets of melty chocolate surprise in every slice—don’t skimp!
- Coconut oil: Delivers healthy fats that make the brownies irresistibly moist and rich.
- Plant-based milk: Binds and softens the batter—almond, soy, or oat all work beautifully.
- Chia eggs: The magic vegan binder that keeps everything together while providing extra nutrition.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, comforting aroma.
How to Make Vegan Healthy Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper—this keeps sticking to a minimum and makes brownie removal a breeze. Getting this step out of the way first means you’ll be brownie-ready as soon as the batter is done!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your wholemeal spelt flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, coconut sugar, stevia, salt, and instant coffee (if using). This is where the rich chocolate foundation is built, and blending these well ensures an even, soft crumb in your Vegan Healthy Brownies.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the melted coconut oil, your favorite plant-based milk, chia eggs (made by mixing 2 tablespoons chia seeds with 6 tablespoons water and letting it gel), and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well incorporated—it’s the secret to moist, tender brownies!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour your wet ingredients into the bowl of dry mix. Stir gently until just combined (don’t overmix—this keeps the brownies fudgy). Fold in those vegan chocolate chips last, reserving a few for the top if you want extra chocolatey goodness and an inviting look.
Step 5: Pour, Bake, and Test
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula for even baking. Pop it in the oven for 25–30 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; you want a few moist crumbs to cling (not totally dry!).
Step 6: Cool Completely
Patience is a virtue! Allow your brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting. This helps them set for that glorious fudgy texture that defines the very best Vegan Healthy Brownies.
How to Serve Vegan Healthy Brownies
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or an extra handful of vegan chocolate chips on top right as they cool—they’ll melt perfectly into the surface for a glossy finish. Fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder can also bring a pop of color and a touch of elegance to the plate.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair dreamily with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. If you’re serving them as part of a dessert spread, a fresh fruit salad or a tangy raspberry coulis makes a lovely, light counterpoint to the rich, chocolatey base.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, cut the brownies into mini squares and stack them in a rustic tin lined with parchment. Try serving them warm as a base for a decadent sundae bar, or drizzle with melted vegan chocolate for extra wow factor. A drizzle of tahini or peanut butter can make them feel fancy and playful at the same time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any extra Vegan Healthy Brownies cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, the fridge works just as well and keeps them fudgy and fresh!
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in parchment or foil, then pop them into a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature whenever a chocolate craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm a square (or two) in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This brings back their oven-fresh softness and makes those hidden chocolate chips gooey again—just like new!
FAQs
Can I substitute the spelt flour in Vegan Healthy Brownies?
Absolutely! You can use regular whole wheat flour or even a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend—just know that texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious and fudgy.
What plant-based milk works best for this recipe?
Any unsweetened plant milk like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk gets the job done. Choose your favorite for flavor or whatever you have on hand—the results will be equally wonderful.
How do I make chia eggs for Vegan Healthy Brownies?
It’s easy! Just stir 2 tablespoons of chia seeds into 6 tablespoons of water and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. You’ll see it transform into a thick, gel-like consistency perfect for this recipe.
Can I leave out the instant coffee?
Sure! The instant coffee is optional—it won’t make your brownies taste like coffee but it does enhance that deep chocolate flavor. If you’re sensitive or don’t have any on hand, simply skip it.
Why do my brownies turn out crumbly instead of fudgy?
If your Vegan Healthy Brownies are crumbly, it’s likely due to overbaking or using too much flour. Always measure ingredients carefully and pull them from the oven when a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
Every time I bake these Vegan Healthy Brownies, I’m reminded that the simplest, healthiest ingredients can create the tastiest moments to share. If you’re looking for a treat that’s both nourishing and crowd-pleasing, give these brownies a try—your taste buds (and your friends) will thank you!