Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

These Paleo Almond Flour Brownies are a delightful treat that you’ll want to make time and again. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations, these brownies are not only delicious but also healthy. With their rich, fudgey texture and grain-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free ingredients, they prove that you can enjoy dessert without compromising your dietary preferences. Plus, they can easily be made vegan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of almond butter and cocoa creates a deep chocolate flavor that’s irresistible.
• Versatile Options: You can customize these brownies by adding nuts or chocolate chips according to your taste.
• Diet-Friendly: They’re suitable for paleo, gluten-free, and vegan diets, accommodating various dietary needs.
• Ideal Texture: These brownies offer the perfect balance between fudgy and cakey, satisfying every chocolate lover.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe for Paleo Almond Flour Brownies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Rubber spatula
• 8×8 baking pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spilling.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for spreading batter evenly in the pan and scraping down the sides of bowls.
• 8×8 baking pan: The perfect size for achieving the right thickness in your brownies.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 cup runny almond butter (or other nut butter)
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar (can sub for brown sugar)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons non-dairy milk (I used almond)
• 2 tablespoons refined coconut oil or butter (melted)

For the Binding

• 2 eggs or flax eggs (see notes)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dry Mix

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup blanched almond flour (not almond meal)
• 1/4-1 teaspoon baking powder (see notes)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

How to Make Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all wet ingredients:
1. Pour in the runny almond butter.
2. Add coconut sugar, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil or butter, eggs or flax eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add in all remaining dry ingredients:
1. Include cocoa powder, blanched almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir with a wooden spoon until everything is well mixed. The batter will be thick.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan

Add the batter to an 8×8 pan lined with parchment paper:
1. Spoon the mixture into the pan.
2. Spread evenly across all sides using a rubber spatula.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 22–28 minutes:
1. Check at 22 minutes; a toothpick should come out with a few crumbs if you like fudgy brownies.
2. For more well-done brownies, bake closer to 28 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Before Slicing

Let cool completely before slicing:
1. Wait at least 30 minutes before cutting to prevent them from falling apart.
2. Once cooled, enjoy as is or reheat them in the microwave for a warm treat!

How to Serve Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

These paleo almond flour brownies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them plain or dressed up, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Blueberries – A handful of fresh blueberries adds a burst of flavor and pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.
• Raspberries – Their tartness complements the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
• Sliced Strawberries – Slices of strawberries bring a lovely freshness to each bite.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Almond Butter Drizzle – A drizzle of almond butter enhances the nutty flavor and makes for a creamy topping.
• Peanut Butter Swirl – For peanut lovers, a swirl of creamy peanut butter takes these brownies to another level.

Served Warm with Ice Cream

• Coconut Milk Ice Cream – This dairy-free option is perfect for a vegan treat that contrasts nicely with warm brownies.
• Almond Milk Ice Cream – A subtly sweet choice that won’t overpower the brownie flavor.

Dusted with Cocoa Powder or Powdered Sugar

• Cocoa Powder – A light dusting gives an elegant touch while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – For a sweeter finish, powdered sugar adds a nice visual appeal and taste.

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How to Perfect Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

For the best results when making paleo almond flour brownies, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Ensure your baking powder and cocoa powder are fresh for optimal rise and flavor.
• Measure Accurately – Spoon and level your almond flour to avoid dense brownies.
• Let Them Cool Completely – Allowing them to cool ensures they firm up properly for easier slicing.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins – Add nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

Pairing sides with your paleo almond flour brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of brownies.
2. Chia Seed Pudding – This nutritious side offers texture contrast and can be flavored to complement the brownies.
3. Coconut Whipped Cream – Light and airy, it’s a perfect dollop on top of warm brownies for added creaminess.
4. Dark Chocolate Bark – For true chocolate lovers, pairing more chocolate enhances indulgence!
5. Nutty Granola – A crunchy granola adds texture and can be sprinkled on top for added flair.
6. Herbal Tea – A soothing cup of herbal tea provides a warming contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Paleo Almond Flour Brownies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong almond flour: Always use blanched almond flour instead of almond meal for the best texture. Almond meal has a coarse texture that may affect the final product.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a scale or proper measuring cups to ensure your brownies turn out perfect every time.
• Skipping the cooling time: Let your brownies cool completely before slicing. Cutting too soon can lead to crumbling and messiness.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your brownies while baking. A toothpick should come out with a few crumbs for fudgy brownies; overbaking will make them dry.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: If you’re making these brownies vegan, remember to use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. This helps maintain the right consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Paleo Almond Flour Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds on medium power for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Paleo Almond Flour Brownies healthy?

These brownies are made with wholesome ingredients like almond butter and coconut sugar, making them grain-free and gluten-free.

Can I make these Paleo Almond Flour Brownies vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute traditional eggs with flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option while keeping the delicious taste.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

A toothpick inserted should come out with some crumbs for fudgy brownies. For cakey texture, bake until it comes out clean.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit to customize your Paleo Almond Flour Brownies according to your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Paleo Almond Flour Brownies are not only delicious but also versatile and accommodating to various dietary needs. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade brownies!