If you love brownies but want a healthier twist, sweet potato brownies are the perfect treat. They’re rich, fudgy, and naturally sweet, making them an excellent alternative to traditional brownies.
Let’s dive into making these incredible brownies from scratch!
Why Use Sweet Potatoes in Brownies?
Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and moisture to brownies, reducing the need for excessive sugar and butter. Their creamy texture creates a dense, fudgy consistency that rivals classic brownies.
Additionally, they provide essential nutrients like beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C. The best part? No one will even realize they’re eating vegetables!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, gather the following wholesome ingredients:
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (about one medium-sized potato)
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter for a nuttier flavor)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey for non-vegan)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or oat flour for a nut-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free for vegan)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potato
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash, peel, and chop a medium-sized sweet potato into chunks. Boil or steam the pieces until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 10–15 minutes.
Once cooked, drain and mash them until smooth. You’ll need about one cup of mashed sweet potato for this recipe.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you get a smooth and creamy mixture.
The almond butter provides richness, while the maple syrup adds natural sweetness.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, almond flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these ingredients separately ensures even distribution and prevents clumping in the batter.
4. Blend Everything Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring well to combine. The batter should be thick and fudgy.
If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of almond milk or water to adjust the consistency. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
5. Bake the Brownies
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and spread the batter evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the edges look set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
6. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
This step helps them firm up and enhances their flavor. Slice into squares and enjoy! For an extra treat, top with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Brownies
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best texture and sweetness.
- Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: This enhances the deep, chocolatey flavor of the brownies.
- Don’t Overbake: These brownies continue to set as they cool, so remove them when they’re slightly underdone.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Try adding coconut flakes, dried fruit, or even a swirl of nut butter for variation.
- Store Properly: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Brownies
These brownies are not only delicious but also come with numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, which supports immune function and skin health.
- Lower in Sugar: Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and sweet potatoes, making them a great option for those reducing refined sugar intake.
- Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
Sweet potato brownies offer a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. They’re moist, chocolatey, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make dessert time guilt-free.
Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.
