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Just Apples and Cocoa: The Best No Sugar Brownies


  • Author: Naomi
  • Total Time: 30 min

Description

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you try any add-ins or make it your own? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep sharing easy, real-food recipes that taste as good as they feel.


Ingredients

Scale

For the brownies:

  • 2 cups unsweetened applesauce (or homemade puréed cooked apples)

  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • Pinch of salt


Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat and prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2️⃣ Mix the batter:
In a large bowl, combine applesauce, eggs, cocoa powder, baking soda, vanilla (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.

3️⃣ Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).

4️⃣ Cool and slice:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • Use unsweetened applesauce to keep these brownies naturally sweet without added sugar.

  • Don’t overbake—remove from the oven when slightly underdone in the center for fudgy texture.

  • Optional vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor, even though it’s not essential.

  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 20 min