Healthy Brownies: No Gluten, Dairy, Refined Sugar, or Soy

These brownies are AMAZING and now the only brownie recipe I'm going to ever make! You can easily make a protein version, too. This recipe works well with a scoop or two of collagen peptides added in or even increase the water amount by 2 TBSP and add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the brownie batter for extra nutrition.

These healthy grain-free brownies are a powerhouse of wholesome ingredients that deliver both indulgence and nourishment. Made with raw cacao, they’re packed with antioxidants that support heart health and fight inflammation. Lucuma, a naturally sweet fruit powder, adds a maple-like flavor while providing a boost of vitamins, minerals, and fiber—especially iron, potassium, and vitamin C and it also allows you to get away with less sweeteners. Medjool dates lend natural sweetness and a rich texture, along with fiber and essential nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins. With no refined sugars, grains, or dairy, these brownies are a gut-friendly, nutrient-dense treat that satisfies cravings without the crash.

Healthy Grain-Free Brownies

Brownie Recipe:

1 cup raw caco powder

1/2 cup melted coconut oil

15 to 18 Medjool dates (pitted, about one cups' worth)

6 TBSP pure maple syrup

2 eggs (or "flax eggs" if egg-free)

1/2 cup almond butter

1/2 cup almond flour (fine)

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

1 tsp lucuma powder (optional but adds great flavor/more nutrients)

3/4 cup water

Frosting Recipe:

1/2 cup almond butter

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup raw cacao powder

1/4 cup almond milk

Directions:

1. Line an 8" pan with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350F.

2. In a food processor, blend all the brownie ingredients together. Dates work best if they are soft, so you may prefer to soak them in hot water then drain them. The longer you food-process, the smoother the texture will be.

3. Bake 26-30 min or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pan at least 20-30 min.

For the frosting:

1. In a bowl, whisk all the frosting ingredients together (you can also food process if preferred). Spread on top of brownies. If you want it like a cake, you can cut the brownies in half you you have two big rectangles, put put a layer of frosting on, then combine for a double layer brownie-cake.