Gluten-Free Brownies

Posted in Recipe Collections / Gluten-Free Recipes: All the Flavor, None of the Wheat
Gluten-Free Brownies
Indulging in a rich, chocolatey brownie doesn't have to be off-limits for those on a gluten-free diet. These decadent gluten-free brownies are here to satisfy all your chocolate cravings, offering the perfect balance of fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe ensures that everyone can enjoy a slice of heaven without any gluten worries. Let's dive into the sweet details.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • (optional) 1 cup chocolate chips
  • (optional) Chopped nuts, sea salt, or powdered sugar for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal, and lightly grease the paper.

  2. Melt Butter and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sugar and stir until just combined. Remove from heat.

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

  4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until well mixed. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.

  5. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake to keep that fudgy texture.

  6. Cool and Enjoy: Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into squares and, if desired, sprinkle with your choice of topping.

Elevate Your Gluten-Free Brownie Experience

Creating the perfect gluten-free brownie is an art form that blends rich flavor with the desired fudgy texture. While the basic recipe for decadent gluten-free brownies is a fantastic start, exploring creative twists and presentation ideas can transform this beloved treat into an extraordinary dessert experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your gluten-free brownies to new heights:

Flavor Enhancements

  • Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter to deepen the chocolate flavor, adding a sophisticated twist that coffee lovers will adore.
  • Spice It Up: For a warm, unexpected spice kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the cocoa powder. This subtle addition can elevate the overall taste profile of your brownies.
  • Minty Fresh: Mix in some crushed peppermint candies or a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing, minty twist, perfect for the holiday season or as a cool summer treat.

Mix-In Magic

  • Nutty Delight: Stir in your favorite chopped nuts—walnuts, pecans, or almonds—for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate.
  • Berry Burst: Gently fold in fresh raspberries or strawberries before baking for a fruity contrast that cuts through the richness of the chocolate.
  • Swirl Sensations: Before baking, swirl dollops of caramel or raspberry jam into the top layer of the batter for a visually stunning and deliciously tangy or sweet addition.

Serving and Presentation

  • Brownie Parfaits: Layer crumbled brownie pieces with whipped cream and fresh berries in clear glasses for an elegant, individual dessert that’s sure to impress.
  • Brownie Sundae Bar: Set up a DIY sundae bar with warm brownie squares, various ice cream flavors, and toppings like hot fudge, sprinkles, and cherries, allowing guests to customize their indulgent treat.
  • Mini Brownie Bites: Use a mini muffin tin to bake bite-sized brownies for a delightful snack or party appetizer. These can be easily decorated with a drizzle of chocolate or white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.

Rich, Fudgy, and Completely Irresistible

Gluten-free brownies offer a canvas for creativity, not just in the variety of ingredients that can be mixed in, but also in how they are served and enjoyed. By incorporating these ideas, you can create a memorable dessert experience that elevates the humble brownie from a simple snack to a gourmet treat. Experiment with these suggestions, and don’t be afraid to invent new combinations that cater to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Happy baking!

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Servings Per Recipe: 16
  • Calories: 168

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 8.2g (11% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 4.4g (22% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 106mg (35% DV)
  • Sodium: 146mg (6% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 21.4g (8% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1.6g (6% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 12.8g
  • Protein: 4.6g
  • Vitamin D: 12mcg (60% DV)
  • Calcium: 21mg (2% DV)
  • iron: 1mg (6% DV)
  • Potassium: 107mg (2% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.