Better Brownies Recipe

Craving brownies but want a healthier treat? These Better Brownies are surprisingly decadent without the butter, eggs, white flour, or white sugar! Made with fiber-rich oats for satisfying fullness, heart-healthy canola oil, and naturally sweet applesauce, these brownies are moist, rich, and packed with flavor. Pecans add a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats and nutrients. Adapted from a Reader's Digest recipe, these are the perfect guilt-free indulgence.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 55 mins

Calories 287.8 kcal

Protein 6g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Better Brownies

Rolled Oats
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
Canola Oil
½ cup almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped pecans
Mini Chocolate Chips

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How to Make Better Brownies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
In a food processor, blend 1 ½ cups rolled oats for 2-3 minutes until a fine powder forms, pulsing occasionally.
Transfer the oat flour to a large bowl. Add ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk until well combined.
In the food processor, combine ¾ cup packed light brown sugar, ½ cup unsweetened applesauce, and ½ cup canola oil. Blend until smooth.
Add ½ cup almond milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the food processor. Pulse until well blended.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans and ½ cup chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not completely clean).
Let cool completely before cutting and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

4 g

Sugar

113g

Fat

22g

Carbs

13g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Better Brownies?

Better Brownies takes about 75 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 55 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Better Brownies?

Better Brownies has approximately 287.8 calories per serving, with about 6 g protein, 13 g carbohydrates and 24 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Better Brownies?

The key ingredients for Better Brownies are Rolled Oats, Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, Baking Powder, Salt, Brown Sugar, Applesauce. See the full list with measurements above.