Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Seriously, these are the Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies. They’re easy to make and perfectly fudgy, packed with rich chocolate flavor. These brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a sweet treat to impress friends. With their gorgeous shiny, crackly crust and delightful texture, they will quickly become your go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and simple ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips creates an indulgent chocolate experience that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute applesauce for flax to cater to your preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect Texture: These brownies strike the ideal balance between fudgy and cakey, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Great for Sharing: With 16 servings per batch, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure success. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: This size is ideal for achieving the right thickness in brownies, ensuring they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to prepare wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them.
• Whisk: A whisk helps dissolve sugar quickly and create a smooth batter without lumps.
• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula: These tools are perfect for gently folding ingredients together without overmixing.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 1/2 cups very finely ground granulated sugar (the brand Domino is best)
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons ground flax seed OR 5 tbsp apple sauce
• 5 tablespoons water (for the flax, separate from the sugar water)
• 1/2 cup oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder (sifted if clumpy)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (I used gluten-free, but regular works too)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

How to Make Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot enough when you bake your brownies.

Step 2: Prepare Flax Eggs or Applesauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of ground flax with 5 tablespoons of water. Set this mixture aside to thicken. If you’re using applesauce instead, skip this step.

Step 3: Dissolve Sugar in Water

In a medium pot on the stove, add the sugar and water. Whisk together over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves—this should take about 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together all dry ingredients except for the chocolate chips if you’re using them. This includes cocoa powder, flour, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once your sugar mixture has dissolved, pour it into the bowl with dry ingredients. Add all remaining wet ingredients including thickened flax eggs or applesauce. Mix together with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in chocolate chips if using. They enhance both flavor and texture while creating that beautiful shiny top on your brownies.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer your brownie batter into an 8×8 baking pan lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top if desired. Bake for about 35-42 minutes; around 38 minutes is perfect in my oven. Use a toothpick to check doneness; adjust baking time based on your preference for fudginess.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool completely. Use the parchment paper to lift out brownies from the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy! The longer they cool, the cleaner your cuts will be.

How to Serve Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

These Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream on top of your brownie for a creamy contrast. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a deliciously melty treat.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the brownies with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Elevate your brownies by drizzling warm vegan chocolate sauce over them. This adds an extra layer of chocolaty goodness that any chocolate lover will adore.

Topped with Whipped Coconut Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top for a light and fluffy texture. This makes for an indulgent yet dairy-free topping.

Paired with Nut Butter

• Spread a layer of almond or peanut butter on top of each brownie for added richness and protein. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with chocolate.

How to Perfect Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use finely ground sugar: This ensures it dissolves completely, contributing to that shiny crust you want.
• Mix wet ingredients thoroughly: Properly combining wet ingredients helps create a smooth batter, leading to even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined; overmixing can result in dense brownies instead of fudgy ones.
• Check oven temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temperatures, crucial for perfect brownies.
• Let them cool completely: Cooling allows the brownies to set properly, making slicing easier and cleaner.

Best Side Dishes for Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Pairing your Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances out the richness.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to every bite.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Serve alongside this airy dessert for an indulgent chocolate experience.
4. Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors enhance the chocolate notes in the brownies, creating a delightful combination.
5. Nutty Granola: A crunchy granola adds texture and a wholesome element when sprinkled on top.
6. Chai Tea Latte: The spices in chai complement chocolate perfectly, making it a cozy drink pairing.
7. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fruit, this parfait serves as a lighter side option.
8. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle adds another layer of sweetness that pairs well with fudgy brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making vegan brownies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong flour: Not all flours behave the same. Using gluten-free flour can change the texture, so make sure to choose one that’s suitable for baking.

• Overmixing the batter: This can result in tough brownies. Mix just until combined for that perfect fudgy texture.

• Skipping the resting time: Letting the brownies cool completely before cutting is essential. It helps them set and makes slicing easier.

• Not measuring ingredients properly: Baking is a science! Use accurate measurements for sugar, flour, and cocoa powder to ensure consistent results.

• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different. Start checking your brownies a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Brownies can last up to 5 days in the fridge while staying fresh.

Freezing Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

• Place brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat brownies for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on low power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place brownies in a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies:

Can I use different sweeteners?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup, but it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make these brownies gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. The recipe works great with this substitution!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or even dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

Why are my brownies not fudgy?

If they turn out cakey, you might have overbaked them. Keep an eye on baking time and adjust according to your oven’s performance.

Final Thoughts

These Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies are not only delightfully rich but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite nuts or by substituting different ingredients based on dietary preferences. Enjoy this recipe as a comforting dessert that everyone will love!