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Dark Chocolate Beet Brownies Recipe


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4 from 38 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Dark Chocolate Beet Brownies are a decadent and moist treat that cleverly incorporates pureed beets for added moisture, natural sweetness, and a nutritional boost. Rich in dark chocolate flavor with a hint of earthiness from the beets, these brownies are a healthier twist on a classic favorite, perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings while sneaking in some veggies.


Ingredients

Chocolate Mixture

  • 3 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa content) (90 grams)
  • ⅓ cup butter (75 grams)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)

Beet Puree

  • 10 ounces cooked beets (280 grams)

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (140 grams)
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup applesauce (250 grams)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the brownies.
  2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: Finely chop the dark chocolate and melt it together with butter in a heat-proof bowl placed over a pot of simmering water (double boiler). Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar and then set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare Beet Puree: Cut the cooked beets into chunks and puree them in a food processor until smooth. Set aside the beet puree.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and unsweetened cocoa powder until evenly combined.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the applesauce, beet puree, and the melted chocolate mixture to the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir everything thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, evenly mixed batter.
  6. Prepare Baking Pan: Line a brownie pan with baking parchment to prevent sticking and pour the batter evenly into the pan.
  7. Bake: Place the pan on the middle oven rack and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter. Adjust baking time to your preferred texture.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan before cutting them into 9 servings.

Notes

  • Use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for rich flavor and reduced sugar.
  • The butter adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Cooked beets provide natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing texture without overpowering the chocolate.
  • All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Natural unsweetened cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor without added sugar.
  • Applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and fat substitute, improving moisture and reducing added fat.
  • Use an 8×8 inch brownie pan or similarly sized square baking pan for best results.
  • Check brownies at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking, as ovens vary.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American