Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Seriously, these are the Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies! They are easy to make and deliver a rich, fudgy texture that will satisfy any chocolate craving. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress with their shiny crust and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of these brownies in no time.
• Decadently fudgy: The unique combination of ingredients creates a moist and indulgent brownie that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile options: You can customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips for added flavor.
• Dairy-free delight: Made without any animal products, these brownies are suitable for everyone.
• Perfect for sharing: With 16 generous servings, they’re ideal for parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (8×8)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good quality 8×8 pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep wet and dry ingredients separate until they’re ready to combine.
• Whisk: This tool is essential for ensuring that your sugar dissolves completely, which contributes to that shiny crust.

Ingredients

To make the Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 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. This step is crucial for ensuring even baking of your brownies.

Step 2: Prepare Flax Egg (if using)

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

Step 3: Dissolve Sugar

In a medium pot on the stove, add the sugar and water. Whisk together over medium/low heat. Stir occasionally for about 5–10 minutes until completely dissolved.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together all dry ingredients except for chocolate chips if using.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once the sugar has dissolved, pour it into the dry mixture. Add oil, vanilla extract, and either the thickened flax egg or applesauce. Mix until combined but do not over mix.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in chocolate chips if desired. This adds extra richness and enhances the brownie’s appearance.

Step 7: Bake Brownies

Transfer batter to an 8×8 baking pan lined with parchment paper. Optionally sprinkle with additional chocolate chips on top. Bake for 35–42 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with minimal crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

After baking, remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing around edges of the pan using parchment paper as a lift. Cut into squares and enjoy! The longer you let them cool, the cleaner your cuts will be.

Your journey to creating delicious vegan brownies ends here! These brownies are sure to be a hit at any occasion!

How to Serve Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

These brownies are rich and fudgy, making them a delightful dessert on their own. However, you can elevate your experience with some creative serving suggestions that complement their chocolatey goodness.

A La Mode

• Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.

With Fresh Berries

• Add a side of mixed fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the dense brownie texture.

Drizzled with Plant-Based Chocolate Sauce

• Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling warm plant-based chocolate sauce over the top before serving.

Whipped Coconut Cream

• Top each brownie with fluffy whipped coconut cream for a decadent twist that adds lightness.

Nuts and Seeds Topping

• Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the brownies.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of rich coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.

How to Perfect Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Perfecting these brownies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly every time.

• Use finely ground sugar: This helps dissolve the sugar completely, contributing to that shiny crust.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test; it should come out with moist crumbs for that fudgy center.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing them to cool makes cutting easier and gives them time to set.
• Experiment with add-ins: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for variety in flavor and texture.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your brownies can enhance their flavors and create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options you can try:

1. Vegan Ice Cream
   A delicious scoop of vegan ice cream provides a creamy contrast that complements the fudginess of the brownies.

2. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad adds freshness, balancing the richness of the brownies without overwhelming them.

3. Chia Seed Pudding
   This nutritious pudding offers a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with fudgy brownies while adding health benefits.

4. Nut Butter Spread
   A dollop of almond or cashew butter spread on top adds richness and an extra layer of flavor.

5. Coconut Yogurt
   The tangy sweetness of coconut yogurt can cut through the richness, making it a perfect accompaniment.

6. Homemade Granola
   Crunchy granola sprinkled on top brings texture and a wholesome element that contrasts beautifully with soft brownies.

7. Caramelized Bananas
   Warm caramelized bananas add natural sweetness and warmth, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

8. Herbal Tea
   A soothing cup of herbal tea serves as a refreshing drink option that can cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies even better.

• Boldly Overmixing: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Stir just until combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring Sugar Dissolution: If the sugar isn’t fully dissolved, it can ruin the shiny crust. Make sure it completely dissolves in the water before adding to dry ingredients.
• Underestimating Bake Time: Baking for too little time results in gooey brownies. Check with a toothpick and adjust baking time based on your desired fudginess.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Not using parchment makes cleanup tough and can cause sticking. Always line your baking pan for easy removal.
• Not Cooling Completely: Cutting brownies while warm leads to messy squares. Let them cool fully for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep separated with parchment paper if you stack them.

Freezing Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

• Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap for best results.
• Store in an airtight freezer bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I achieve a shiny crust on my brownies?

To achieve that shiny crust, ensure the sugar is completely dissolved in the water before mixing it into the dry ingredients. This step is crucial!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can use applesauce instead of flaxseed for binding. You may also swap out the oil for applesauce or other vegetable-based fats if desired.

Are these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour as listed in the recipe, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Check with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Adjust bake time based on your preference for fudginess.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or additional chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Best Fudgy Vegan Brownies are not only rich and indulgent but also versatile. Customize them by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips to suit your taste. Give them a try; you won’t be disappointed!