Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

Indulging in the rich, velvety world of brownies just became an adventure for your taste buds. Beetroot Brownies with Chocolate Avocado Frosting are a delightful twist on the classic treat, blending earthy, sweet beetroot with decadent, creamy chocolate. These brownies are not just a feast for the eyes; they boast a mesmerizing balance of rich flavors and soft textures that ensures a blissful bite every time.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

To create these scrumptious Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting, gather the following ingredients, which blend perfectly to deliver an irresistibly tasty treat.

Complete Ingredients List

• Brownies:

  • 1 2/3 cup all-purpose plain flour (or spelt/wholemeal flour)
  • 1 cup coconut sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup cocoa or raw cacao powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground chia or flax seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • ~1 cup beetroot puree (about 1 medium beetroot)
  • 3/4 cup melted vegan chocolate
  • 1/4 cup neutral flavored oil (such as sunflower or canola)
  • 3 tablespoons dairy-free milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• Frosting:

  • 1 medium avocado (skin and seed removed)
  • 1/4 cup cocoa or raw cacao powder (for frosting)
  • 4 medjool dates (pitted)
  • 1-4 tablespoons maple syrup (to taste)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Flour: If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with oat flour or almond flour.
• Sugar: For a lower glycemic index, opt for stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Egg Replacement: Instead of eggs, use ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg).
• Chocolate: For a sweeter option, opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Maple Syrup: Agave nectar or date syrup can also be used instead.
• Avocado: In case of unavailability, a banana can be used in place of the avocado, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

How to Make Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While your oven is warming up, line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with baking parchment. This will ensure your brownies can be easily removed after baking without sticking to the pan.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, cocoa or cacao powder, ground chia or flax seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together until there are no lumps—this will ensure your brownies bake evenly and have a nice texture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the beetroot puree, melted vegan chocolate, neutral oil, dairy-free milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined. The beetroot puree adds both moisture and a slight sweetness, making it essential for achieving the perfect brownie texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until combined. The batter should be thick and luscious—resist the urge to overmix, as this can make the brownies dense instead of light and fudgy.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on how fudgy you prefer your brownies. Keep an eye on them; for a softer brownie, you may want to take them out on the shorter side of the baking time. Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Avocado Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a food processor, blend the medium avocado, cocoa or cacao powder, medjool dates, and maple syrup until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Adjust the cocoa or sweetness to your preference. If the frosting feels too thick, add a splash of dairy-free milk until you find the ideal consistency.

Step 7: Frost the Brownies

Once your brownies are completely cool, spread the chocolate avocado frosting over the top using a spatula or knife. You can cut the brownies into squares or rectangles before or after adding the frosting.

Step 8: Store or Serve

For optimal freshness, store unfrosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Frosted brownies can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Enjoy them chilled, at room temperature, or even slightly warmed, for a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions for Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

How to Serve Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

These brownies can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference. For a cozy treat, serve them slightly warmed. If you opt for a refreshing dessert, chill them in the refrigerator for a while before serving.

When cutting, use a sharp knife, and consider warming it slightly under hot water for smoother cuts. This helps to maintain a clean edge when slicing through the fudgy brownies.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

• Toppings: A sprinkle of nuts, such as crushed walnuts or pecans, can add a satisfying crunch. For an artistic touch, consider drizzling a little melted dairy-free chocolate or maple syrup over the top.
• Sides: Pair these brownies with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, can add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.

Storing & Preserving Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

Best Storage Methods

To maintain their moist texture, store the unfrosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Once frosted, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is the best option; wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 1 month for the best quality.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

When ready to enjoy a frozen brownie, take it out and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a quick treat, you can microwave it for a few seconds until warmed through—just be careful not to overheat, as this could dry out the brownie.

Tips for Perfect Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense brownies instead of light and airy ones. Mix until just combined.
• Underbaking: If you prefer fudgy brownies, keep a close eye on your bake time and do the toothpick test. A few moist crumbs are normal but avoid batter.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting. This keeps the frosting from melting and ensures a better presentation.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and baking soda are essential for helping your brownies rise properly.
• Beetroot Preparation: Ensure your beetroot is thoroughly puréed to avoid chunks in your brownie mix. A high-speed blender works best.
• Chill the Avocado Frosting: If the texture seems too soft, chill the frosting in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before spreading it on the brownies.

Fun Variations of Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

• Nutty Brownies: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture.
• Spiced Brownies: A pinch of cinnamon or ginger can add a warm flavor that complements the chocolate and beet.
• Fruity Twists: Swirl in some pureed raspberries or mashed banana into the brownie batter for an added burst of flavor.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan: This recipe is inherently vegan-friendly with dairy-free ingredients, but ensure the chocolate you use is also dairy-free.
• Sugar-Free: Substitute coconut sugar with a stevia-based product to lower the sugar content.
• Keto: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and a suitable sugar replacement to make these brownies keto-friendly.

FAQs

What If My Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Too Dry: If your brownies come out dry, consider reducing the bake time, adding slightly more wet ingredients next time, or making sure your beetroot is properly puréed.
• Too Crumbly: Check your measurements, particularly the flour, as using too much can lead to a crumbly texture.
• Not Sweet Enough: Adjusting your sweetener is easy; you can add more coconut sugar or maple syrup to taste in both the brownie and frosting.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! These brownies can be made a day or two ahead of time, making them perfect for parties or quick treats. Make and frost them in advance, and simply store them in the fridge. They taste even better after chilling for a day as the flavors meld together.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

For common allergens, consider using gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, try sugar replacements that work in baking. The chickpea flour could work in place of traditional flours for those with gluten sensitivities, though they may slightly change the texture and taste.

With these tips and this wholesome recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious little piece of heaven through the Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting. Enjoy experimenting, and share lovely bites of joy with friends and family!

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