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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the brownies.
- 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.
- Prepare Beet Puree: Cut the cooked beets into chunks and puree them in a food processor until smooth. Set aside the beet puree.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and unsweetened cocoa powder until evenly combined.
- 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.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line a brownie pan with baking parchment to prevent sticking and pour the batter evenly into the pan.
- 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.
- 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