Decadent Chickpea Flour Brownies: Guilt-Free Indulgence
Have you ever craved a rich, fudgy brownie but wished for a healthier option? You’re in luck! These Decadent Chickpea Flour Brownies deliver on taste without the guilt. Made with wholesome ingredients, they are gluten-free, protein-packed, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping your health in check!
What Are Chickpea Flour Brownies?
Chickpea Flour Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, substituting regular flour with chickpea flour for added nutrition. Originating in Middle Eastern cuisine, chickpea flour has been enjoyed for centuries in various dishes, from falafel to pancakes. This versatile ingredient not only makes these brownies gluten-free but also enriches them with a nutty flavor while enhancing their moist texture.
Why Chickpea Flour Brownies Are Awesome
Not only are these brownies deliciously indulgent, but they also come with a host of health benefits. Chickpea flour is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying choice for dessert. It contains essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Studies have shown that chickpeas can aid in weight management, heart health, and digestive wellness. For more detailed information on the benefits of chickpea flour, check out Healthline and Dr. Axe
Ingredients
- Chickpea Flour
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- Maple Syrup
- Coconut Oil (or substitute with vegetable oil)
- Vanilla Extract
- Baking Powder
- Salt
- Agave Nectar (for vegan option)
- Flaxseed Meal (as an egg replacer)
- Chocolate Chips, Nuts, or Dried Fruit (optional add-ins)
- Cinnamon or Peppermint Extract (for flavored variations)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chickpea Flour Brownies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of chickpea flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chickpea Flour Brownies
- Too Much Liquid: Measure your ingredients accurately to prevent overly wet brownies.
- Overmixing the Batter: Stir gently after combining wet and dry ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
- Undercooking: Check for doneness; brownies should be firm but still soft in the center when done.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 6g |
Fiber | 4g |
Fat | 8g |
Cost Breakdown
Ingredient | Cost |
---|---|
Chickpea Flour (1 cup) | $1.50 |
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup) | $0.75 |
Maple Syrup (1/2 cup) | $1.00 |
Coconut Oil (1/4 cup) | $0.80 |
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) | $0.30 |
Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) | $0.10 |
Salt (pinch) | $0.02 |
Total | $4.47 |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- With Ice Cream: Serve these fudgy brownies warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream.
- With Fresh Fruit: Complement with berries or a drizzle of fresh fruit puree for added freshness.
- As a Snack: Perfect for packing as a snack or lunchbox treat! You can also try serving them with my Spicy Ricotta Eggs for a delightful breakfast combo!
Storing and Reheating Chickpea Flour Brownies
Storing
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheating
To re-warm, microwave individual brownies for about 10-15 seconds, or heat them gently in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 5-10 minutes to regain some of that fresh-baked texture.
Conclusion
These Decadent Chickpea Flour Brownies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Theyโre the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, making it easy to enjoy dessert without the guilt. Give this recipe a try, and if you love desserts as much as I do, you might also enjoy my Best Classic Cheesecake Recipe, Best Gluten-Free Pizza Crust, and Best Coconut Flakes Recipe. Let us know how you like it! Donโt forget to share your brownie creations with us on social media!
FAQs about Chickpea Flour Brownies
Can I substitute chickpea flour with regular flour?
Yes, but the texture and nutritional content will be different.
Are these brownies vegan?
The recipe can be made vegan by using a plant-based sweetener and an egg substitute.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes! Wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Recap Of The Recipe
Chickpea Flour Brownies
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (one for dry ingredients, one for wet ingredients)
- Whisk (for combining dry and wet ingredients)
- Spatula (for folding in optional add-ins and transferring batter)
- 8×8-inch baking dish (lined with parchment paper)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate measurements)
- Oven (preheated to 350ยฐF / 175ยฐC)
- Toothpick (to check for doneness)
Ingredients
- Chickpea Flour
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- Maple Syrup
- Coconut Oil or substitute with vegetable oil
- Vanilla Extract
- Baking Powder
- Salt
- Agave Nectar for vegan option
- Flaxseed Meal as an egg replacer
- Chocolate Chips Nuts, or Dried Fruit (optional add-ins)
- Cinnamon or Peppermint Extract for flavored variations
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of chickpea flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Chickpea Flour: Ensure you use fine chickpea flour for the best texture. Coarse flour can result in gritty brownies.
- Sweetener: You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by varying the amount of maple syrup or trying other natural sweeteners like agave nectar.
- Cocoa Powder: Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder will enhance the chocolate flavor of the brownies.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Storage: These brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze.
- Serving: Serve warm for a gooey texture or chilled for a firmer brownie. They pair wonderfully with ice cream or fresh fruit for a delightful dessert.
Hi Hayat,
I have to say, these brownies are absolutely divine! I loved them so much that I doubled the recipe and even swapped half the oil for a bananaโsuch a perfect twist! They turned out rich, moist, and full of flavor.
Thank you for sharing this gem, Hayat! Youโve definitely made my dessert game stronger.
Best wishes,
Isabella
Hi Isabella,
Iโm so thrilled to hear that you loved the brownies! Doubling the recipe AND adding a banana twist? Genius move! Now Iโm tempted to try that myself. Iโm all about creative swaps, and it sounds like youโve taken these brownies to the next level! ๐
Thanks so much for the sweet feedbackโso happy to be part of your dessert adventures!
Warmest wishes,
Hayat ๐