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    Home » By Meal » Dessert

    Published: January 6, 2023

    Flourless Brownies

    5 from 22 votes
    Jump to Recipe Pin Print
    healthy and gluten-free flourless brownies
    fudgy flourless brownies
    fudgy flourless brownies

    These super fudgy and rich double chocolate flourless brownies are made with almond butter, maple syrup, and apple sauce. The perfect healthy and gluten-free dessert. No flour is needed!

    healthy flourless brownies

    The best almond butter flourless brownies

    Brownies are my favorite dessert! They are rich and chocolatey, and everyone always loves them. That’s why I have a lot of brownie recipes on my blog. In fact, this flourless brownie recipe was my FIRST and MOST POPULAR brownie recipe; I am just updating the pictures.

    I love these oat flour brownies, or if I feel fancy, I make this extra gooey brownie skillet. But these flourless brownies are the perfect, no-hassle, super easy classic brownie recipe ready in under 30 minutes.

    Flourless brownies are about to be your new favorite dessert! They taste better than boxed brownies and are still super fudgy, rich, and dense without adding flour to the batter. It’s impossible to tell if these brownies are gluten-free, dairy-free, refined-sugar-free, and healthy! All my “unhealthy” friends love them.

    One of the best parts about these insanely fudgy flourless brownies is that they are made with simple and healthy ingredients like almond butter, apple sauce, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. They are sweet and chocolatey, without lots of white sugar and refined flour.

    Why you’ll love this recipe:

    • No flour is needed for these brownies!
    • They are super fudgy and dense.
    • Best healthy brownie recipe.
    • These brownies are gluten-free, dairy-free, & refined sugar-free.
    • Extra decadent and chocolatey.
    • They are sweetened naturally with maple syrup and a dash of coconut sugar.
    • Ready in under 30 minutes.
    • Customizable with lots of mix-in options.
    • Any level baker can make these brownies.
    • Try this super gooey flourless brownie skillet next!
    inside of a flourless brownie to show fudgy and dense texture

    Ingredients & substitutions

    These fudgy flourless brownies call for very simple ingredients like almond butter, apple sauce, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and eggs. This recipe is healthy, refined-sugar-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Here is a list of everything you need so you are prepared:

    • Eggs: First, you need eggs to help bind these brownies together.
    • Almond Butter: This makes the brownies super fudgy and dense without adding butter or oil. Use creamy, unsalted almond butter. If you need, you can substitute the almond butter with peanut butter, sun butter, tahini, or cashew butter.
    • Apple Sauce: You can use unsweetened or sweetened apple sauce. This is my secret ingredient to making these flourless brownies soft and moist without adding butter.
    • Maple Syrup: I love baking with maple syrup because it naturally sweetens baked goods without adding refined sugar. You can also use agave syrup or honey.
    • Coconut Sugar: This helps sweeten the brownies without adding refined sugar. You can also use brown sugar.
    • Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla does a long way flavor-wise!
    • Cocoa Powder: There is NO FLOUR in these brownies! Instead, we use 1/3 cup of cocoa powder. Make sure to use a high-quality brand like Ghirardelli. I would stay away from the Trader Joe’s brand and Hersey’s.
    • Baking Soda: You only need a little to help these flourless brownies rise. Do not substitute baking soda with baking powder; they are not the same things.
    • Chocolate Chips: This is optional, but I love adding extra chocolate chips to my brownies to make them double chocolate.

    Kitchen tools required

    Here is a list of kitchen utensils you will need to make these easy flourless brownies.

    • 8×8″ Baking Pan
    • Parchment Paper
    • Mixing Bowl
    • Whisk
    • Measuring Tools: 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, and 1/2 cup.
    all ingredients in the recipe labeled in small bowls

    How to make flourless brownies

    You don’t need flour to make these rich and fudgy double chocolate flourless brownies. Here are super detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference so any level cook can make them. You’ll be in and out of the kitchen in under 30 minutes. The full recipe and ingredient measurements are at the bottom of this page in the recipe card.

    Step 1:

    First, preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease and line an 8×8″ baking pan with parchment paper.

    Step 2:

    Then, mix the eggs, almond butter, apple sauce, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium mixing bowl.

    Step 3:

    After that, add the cocoa powder and baking soda. Mix until just combined, then hand-fold in the chocolate chips.

    almond butter flourless brownies batter in a mizzing bowl

    Step 4:

    Then, pour the batter into greased baking pan and top with a handful of additional chocolate chips.

    Step 5:

    Finally, bake for 20 – 25 minutes, depending on how fudgy you want them. I usually do 22 minutes for a denser/gooier brownie. If you want more cakey brownies, bake them on the longer side.

    Let your flourless brownies completely cool before slicing! Cutting them while they are still hot or warm will result in crumbly brownies.

    brownie batter in baking dish before baking
    flourless brownies in baking dish after baking

    Expert baking tips & tricks for flourless brownies

    Use good quality cocoa powder. This is my #1 baking tip for brownies, especially these flourless ones. Make sure to use a high-quality cocoa powder like Ghirardelli for the best-tasting brownies. If you use a poor-quality brand like Trader Joe’s or Hersey’s, your brownies will lack the chocolate flavor and can be chalky.

    Use room temperature ingredients. This is super important because if you use cold ingredients like apple sauce, eggs, and maple syrup, your brownies will take longer to cook.

    Don’t over-whisk the brownie batter. All the little air bubbles will get knocked out of your brownie batter if you overbeat brownie batter. Mix the batter until it is just combined to avoid this problem.

    Let your brownies cool before slicing. Make sure to let your brownies cool for at least 1 hour before cutting them into squares. If not, they will crumble and fall apart.

    almond butter brownies

    The taste & texture:

    These flourless almond butter brownies taste like a classic rich, dense, and chocolaty brownie. The primary flavor comes from chocolate cocoa powder. You cannot taste the apple sauce or the almond butter.

    Once baked, these flourless brownies are dense and fudgy. They are not dry or chewy.

    Best brownie mix-ins and variations

    Make these double chocolate flourless brownies your own by stirring in or topping them with your favorite mix-in. Here are some ideas:

    • Peanut Butter: Add some peanut butter chips or substitute the almond butter for peanut butter.
    • Walnuts or Almonds: Add a little crunch to these brownies by stirring in 3 – 4 tablespoons of chopped walnuts or almonds.
    • Caramel Sea Salt: Add 2 – 3 tablespoons of caramel and sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top after baking.
    • Oreo: Add 1/4 – 1/3 cup of crushed Oreos to the brownie batter and sprinkle some on top before baking.
    • Banana Bread: Substitute the apple sauce for mashed banana 1:1 to make these flourless banana bread brownies.
    flourless brownie with chocolate shavings on top

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I substitute the almond butter?

    Yes! You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter, cashew butter, tahini, or sun butter.

    Are they nut free?

    Since there is almond butter in these brownies, they are not naturally nut-free. Feel free to substitute the almond butter for sun butter or tahini if you have a nut allergy.

    How do you tell if brownies are done baking?

    I pull my brownies out of the oven when they still look slightly underdone. You can tell brownies are ready to come out of the oven when the top is crinkly and the edges have firmed up. Brownies will continue to cook as they cool, so pull them out before they have fully risen.

    Are these brownies gluten-free?

    Yes, these flourless brownies are 100% gluten-free since there is no flour in them.

    Do they taste like almond butter?

    No, these brownies do not taste like almond butter. They taste like a classic boxed brownie. The almond butter replaces butter or oil that is called for in classic recipes.

    Are these flourless brownies dairy free?

    These flourless brownies are 100% dairy-free. There is NO BUTTER!

    Why are my brownies crumbling?

    There are three possible reasons your brownies are crumbling: (1) you overbaked them, and they dried out, (2) you added too much baking leavening, or (3) you didn’t spoon and level to cocoa powder and added too much.

    How long do I bake brownies at 350°F?

    Brownies will take about 20 to 25 minutes to bake at 350°F.

    How long do brownies take to cool?

    Wait at least 1 hour for your brownies to cool to ensure you cut the perfect brownie square without it crumbling.

    How to store, freeze & make ahead of time:

    Storing: For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

    Freezing: You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Simply let them cool for at least 1 hour, cut them into squares, and then wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Finally, add them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 3 months.

    Make Ahead: You can make these flourless brownies up to 2 days in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving.

    flourless double chocolate brownies

    If you love this recipe, try these next!

    • Oat Flour Brownies
    • Flourless Brownie Skillet
    • Gluten Free Chocolate Cupcakes
    • Almond Flour Chocolate Cake
    • Healthy S’mores Brownies

    Did you make this recipe?

    If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don’t forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!

    double chocolate healthy flourless brownies

    Flourless Brownies

    These super fudgy and rich double chocolate flourless brownies are made with almond butter, maple syrup, and apple sauce. The perfect healthy and gluten-free dessert. No flour is needed!
    5 from 22 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 mins
    Cook Time 25 mins
    Total Time 30 mins
    Serving 9 servings

    Ingredients
     

    • 2 large eggs
    • ¾ cup creamy almond butter, (192g) unsalted
    • ¼ cup apple sauce, unsweetened or sweetened (room temperature)
    • ¼ cup maple syrup, room temperature
    • ⅓ cup coconut sugar
    • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
    • ⅓ cup cocoa powder, (26g)
    • ½ tsp baking soda
    • ½ cup chocolate chips, optional

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease and line an 8×8” baking pan with parchment paper.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, almond butter, apple sauce, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract together.
    • Add the cocoa powder and baking soda. Mix until just combined, then hand-fold in the chocolate chips.
    • Pour the batter into greased baking pan and top with a handful of additional chocolate chips.
    • Bake for 20 – 25 minutes, depending on how fudgy you want them. I usually do 22 minutes for a denser/gooier brownie. If you want more cakey brownies, bake them on the longer side.
    • Cool completely before slicing!

    Notes

    Almond Butter: You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter, cashew butter, tahini, or sun butter.
    Coconut Sugar: You can also use brown sugar.
    Use good quality cocoa powder. This is my #1 baking tip for brownies, especially these flourless ones. Make sure to use a high-quality cocoa powder like Ghirardelli for the best-tasting brownies. If you use a poor-quality brand like Trader Joe’s or Hersey’s, your brownies will lack the chocolate flavor and can be chalky.
    Nut-Free: Since there is almond butter in these brownies, they are not naturally nut-free. Feel free to substitute the almond butter for sun butter or tahini if you have a nut allergy.
    Storing: For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
    Freezing: You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Simply let them cool for at least 1 hour, cut them into squares, and then wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Finally, add them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 3 months.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 199kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 91mg | Potassium: 245mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 62IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 1mg
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Please leave a comment and star rating on this post and tag @HealthfulBlondie on Instagram & hashtag it #healthfulblondie!

    I only recommend products I absolutely love and use myself. In full disclosure, by purchasing a product I recommend, I may receive a small compensation. Thank you for supporting Healthful Blondie!

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    Recipe Rating




    Comments

    1. Lilly says

      December 13, 2020 at 9:00 pm

      5 stars
      So fluffy and moist! Crazy that there is no flour in them.

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        December 27, 2020 at 9:56 am

        Hi Lilly! Wow, so happy to hear this. I had a feeling you would love these!

        Reply
    2. Shaye says

      December 28, 2020 at 4:39 pm

      5 stars
      I am obsessed with Tati’s foodstagram and this was my first recipe (out of the 100s I have saved) that I have ever made. These were amazing! Super moist and easy to make! The perfect healthy/vegan-friendly alternative to traditional brownies. These were a hit with my non-vegan family members as well. Can’t wait to try more of her recipes!!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        January 17, 2021 at 10:37 am

        Hi Shaye, you just made my day!! These flourless brownies are truly the best – so soft and gooey! I am so happy you love this recipe and my blog.

        Reply
    3. Kailey J says

      January 09, 2021 at 2:57 pm

      5 stars
      Not really sure how Tati made these so moist and fudgy without any butter or flour. They are SO YUMMY!!!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        January 17, 2021 at 10:40 am

        Hi Kailey, YAY!! So glad to hear this. This makes me so happy that you enjoyed this moist flourless brownies. One of my favs 🙂

        Reply
    4. Emma says

      January 13, 2021 at 1:49 pm

      5 stars
      so moist & chocolate-y!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        January 17, 2021 at 10:50 am

        YAY, Emma! So excited to hear this. I love these brownies so much 🙂

        Reply
    5. anna says

      January 21, 2021 at 8:23 pm

      5 stars
      these are AMAZING! literally taste like ghiradelli brownies but with healthy ingredients ??!!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        February 03, 2021 at 2:13 pm

        Anna, I am so happy to hear this! I totally agree – they taste like Ghiradelli!

        Reply
    6. Annalisa says

      January 22, 2021 at 10:02 pm

      5 stars
      These are so decadent and delicious!! You’d never know they’re healthy. We under baked them by a few minutes and they were the perfect treat. My whole family approved. Highly recommend trying this recipe!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        February 03, 2021 at 2:14 pm

        I am so excited to hear this, Annalisa! These are by far my favorite brownies too. So yummy.

        Reply
    7. Annabelle Keller says

      January 23, 2021 at 3:14 pm

      5 stars
      Please tell me how these are flourless!? They literally taste like betty crocker but better! I tricked my entire family haha

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        February 03, 2021 at 2:15 pm

        So happy you enjoyed these flourless brownies!

        Reply
    8. Lisa Cornett says

      January 23, 2021 at 6:54 pm

      5 stars
      Best vegan brownies I have made! So easy and gooey and delicious! Paired great with cashew milk ice cream. I actually used half walnut butter and half almond butter in mine because I ran out of almond butter. 😋

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        February 03, 2021 at 2:16 pm

        Hi Lisa, I am so excited to hear this! Cashew milk ice cream sounds like the perfect pairing for these gooey, flourless brownies.

        Reply
    9. Wells Kate says

      February 06, 2021 at 8:52 pm

      5 stars
      So so so yummy!!! How is there no flour!?

      Reply
    10. Alicia Lynde says

      February 17, 2021 at 8:02 pm

      5 stars
      Made these this past weekend and absolutely loved them. They didn’t even last 4 days in our house. Definitely making them again and may even go crazy and add nuts next time 🥰

      Reply
    11. Elizabeth Dehler says

      February 18, 2021 at 7:44 am

      5 stars
      These brownies were hands down the best I’ve ever made! The ingredients are so minimal yet they taste the most similar to store bought batter. My roommates who are not healthy eaters whatsoever are obsessed and already asked me to make them again! So good <3

      Reply
    12. Grace says

      March 21, 2021 at 8:44 am

      5 stars
      These were SO fudgy, delicious, and easy to make! My friends and I consumed them all within 2 hours :))

      Reply
    13. Annick says

      June 08, 2021 at 4:38 pm

      5 stars
      Everyone go make these brownies RIGHT NOW. They are so moist, rich, and insanely delicious and chocolatey. Honestly, probably the best brownies I have ever made. Not to mention the simple and clean ingredients! Highly recommend!!

      Reply
    14. Anna Duke says

      June 29, 2021 at 9:01 am

      5 stars
      These are absolutely amazing!!! SO fudgey, gooey, and rich. You’d never know that they weren’t from a Ghiradelli box mix 😉 I will definitely be making these again…. and again!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        August 26, 2021 at 4:59 pm

        Omg, thank you so much Anna!

        Reply
    15. Ananya says

      July 01, 2021 at 7:17 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve followed Tati forever on insta and I love how tasty her restrictive-diet recipes are and I’ve always been inspired by how she manages to create so much amazing content as a college student! When I was diagnosed with about 50 food allergies, a chronic health issue, and food intolerances, I was sad that I could never eat tasty food again, but Tati’s recipes have been a saving grace and a go-to, especially her desserts! Thank you for everything Tati:)

      Reply
    16. Alyssa Thompson says

      January 08, 2023 at 9:23 am

      5 stars
      I have tried a lot of healthier brownie recipes to no avail – this one was the first that was truly delicious. Tasted just like box mix brownie. So good!!!

      Reply
      • Tati Chermayeff says

        January 11, 2023 at 9:16 am

        5 stars
        Hi Alyssa! This made my day. I am so happy you enjoyed these brownies!

        Reply

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    Tati, founder and creator of Healthful Blondie

    I’m Tati, a foodie, recipe developer, and blogger based in Austin, Texas. I started Healthful Blondie in 2020 to celebrate life, health, and my passion for cooking and baking. If you are in search of “lightened-up,” healthier versions of classics, you are in the right spot! My recipes are easy to follow, simple, and super tasty.

    More about me →

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