Description
These fudgy butternut squash brownies offer a unique twist on traditional brownies by incorporating pureed butternut squash for moisture and subtle sweetness. Sweetened with coconut sugar and rich in chocolate flavor, these brownies are a wholesome, delicious treat that combines dessert indulgence with the natural goodness of squash.
Ingredients
Butternut Squash Puree
- 1 cup pureed butternut squash*
Wet Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar**
Dry Ingredients
- 2/3 cup flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk), plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Butternut Squash Puree: Peel and cut the butternut squash into small cubes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil on the stovetop. Add the squash cubes and cook for 10 minutes or until they are tender when pierced by a knife. Drain and transfer the squash to a food processor, then puree until smooth. Chill the puree completely in the refrigerator, preferably overnight, for the best results.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, stir the cooled butternut squash puree with the eggs, vanilla bean paste, and coconut sugar using a large spoon until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Add Topping: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips on top for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 27 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve.
Notes
- For best results, prepare the butternut squash puree a day in advance and chill overnight.
- Using cold puree is important to properly incorporate into the batter and achieve fudgy texture.
- Coconut sugar gives a caramel-like sweetness and can be substituted with brown sugar if unavailable.
- Choose semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips based on your preference for sweetness.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can lightly warm the brownies before serving to enhance the fudgy texture.