Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies

why make this recipe

Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that many of us cherish from childhood. These brownies capture the sweet, fudgy essence of the traditional version while making mindful choices about ingredients. By using wholesome components like dates, nuts, and cocoa powder, these brownies provide a more nutritious option that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether you are looking for a tasty treat for family gatherings, a snack for kids, or something special for yourself, these brownies are sure to impress.

Not only are they delicious, but they also pack a punch of nutrition. The dates are a great source of natural sweetness and fiber, while the nuts provide healthy fats and protein. This recipe eliminates refined sugars and unhealthy additives, making it a mindful indulgence. Plus, topping them with colorful rainbow candy is an exciting way to add flair and joy. If you have been searching for a guilt-free dessert that your whole family will love, this is the recipe for you!

how to make Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies

Making Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies is as simple as gathering your ingredients and following a few easy steps. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Plus, it doesn’t require any fancy tools—just a food processor and a baking pan. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup walnuts or almonds
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Rainbow candy for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

2. Prepare the baking pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help the brownies come out easily after baking and make clean-up a breeze.

3. Blend the base: In a food processor, combine the pitted dates and walnuts or almonds. Blend them together until finely chopped. This step forms the basis of your brownies and gives them a deliciously rich flavor.

4. Combine all ingredients: Add cocoa powder, almond flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt into the food processor. Blend all these ingredients until the mixture is smooth. You’ll notice the mixture starting to come together, creating a delicious brownie batter.

5. Pour and spread: Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the pan. This ensures that all the brownies bake at the same rate.

6. Bake the brownies: Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you can use a toothpick to check for doneness. When it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your brownies are ready!

7. Cool and add toppings: Once you remove the brownies from the oven, let them cool briefly in the pan. After a few minutes, top the warm brownies with rainbow candy. This step adds a fun, colorful finish to your dessert.

8. Slice and enjoy: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Enjoy these healthy-ish treats on their own or with a glass of almond milk for a delightful snack.

how to serve Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies

Serving Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies is both simple and fun! You can slice these fudgy treats into small squares or big rectangles, depending on your preference. They make for perfect dessert bites after dinner or a sweet snack during the day.

Consider these serving ideas:

• With fresh fruit: Pair these brownies with fresh fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
• Tea or coffee time: Serve them alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy experience. The richness of the brownies complements the warmth of tea or coffee perfectly.
• Ice cream sundaes: If you’re feeling indulgent, top your brownies with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Add some chocolate syrup or nuts for an extra treat.
• Snack bars: Cut them into bars for lunchboxes or after-school snacks. Kids love the colorful rainbow candy topping, making these brownies a hit for family outings or gatherings.

how to store Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies

Storage is easy with Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies. Here are some tips to keep them fresh:

1. At room temperature: If you plan to eat the brownies within a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for up to 3-4 days.

2. In the refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to a week when refrigerated. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for a more enjoyable texture.

3. Freezing: If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, you can freeze the brownies! Cut them into squares, and wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.

tips to make Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure that your Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies turn out perfectly:

1. Choose your nuts wisely: You can use walnuts or almonds based on your preference. If you prefer a different nut, feel free to try pecans or cashews! Each will bring a unique flavor to the brownies.

2. Check the dates: Ensure that your dates are soft and moist for easy blending. If they feel hard, soak them in hot water for a few minutes to soften them.

3. Don’t skip the cocoa: For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder. This will give your brownies a rich chocolate taste that enhances the overall experience.

4. Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on your brownies as they bake. Overbaking will lead to dry brownies, whereas underbaking will result in a gooey texture. Check them a little early, especially if your oven tends to run hot.

5. Experiment with toppings: While rainbow candy adds a fun element, feel free to switch it up! You can use chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dark chocolate chips for topping.

6. Involve the kids: These brownies are a great opportunity to get kids involved in the kitchen. They can help mix ingredients or decorate the brownies with rainbow candy, making it a fun family activity.

variation

While the Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies are delightful as is, there are several variations you can try:

1. Nut-free version: If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute the walnuts or almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This will provide a similar texture without the nuts.

2. Sweetness level: Adjust the sweetness to your liking! You can add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter brownie or reduce it for a less sweet but equally satisfying treat.

3. Add spices: For an interesting twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the batter. This will enhance the chocolate flavor.

4. Fruity addition: You can also add a mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce to the batter for an extra fruity twist. This adds moisture and flavor!

5. Alternative sweeteners: If you want to experiment, try using agave nectar or honey in place of maple syrup. Just be mindful that these may alter the flavor slightly.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour if you prefer. However, this will change the flavor and texture slightly. Almond flour gives these brownies a nutty flavor and makes them gluten-free.

2. How do I know when the brownies are done?

You can use a toothpick to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the brownies; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out with wet batter, they need more time.

3. Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan since the main ingredients are plant-based. Just be sure to check that your rainbow candy is also vegan.

4. What can I use if I don’t have cocoa powder?

If you are out of cocoa powder, you can try unsweetened carob powder as a replacement. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor of the brownies but will still yield a delicious treat.

5. How should I adjust cooking time if I’m using a larger or smaller pan?

For a larger pan, the cooking time will generally be shorter. Start checking for doneness about 5 minutes early. For a smaller pan, the brownies may take longer to cook. Keep an eye on them and adjust accordingly.

Healthy-ish Cosmic Brownies are a delicious and nutritious option that the whole family can enjoy. With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, they make baking easy and fun. Whether you keep them for yourself or share them with others, you’ll love this healthy treat!

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