Description
These delicious Low Calorie Greek Yogurt Brownies combine the richness of cocoa with the creamy texture of Greek yogurt, resulting in a moist, healthier alternative to traditional brownies. Perfect for those craving a guilt-free treat, these brownies are packed with wholesome ingredients and sweetened lightly to satisfy your chocolate desires without the added calories.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt (Plain nonfat works best)
- 1/2 cup Applesauce (Unsweetened preferred)
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 3/4 cup Sweetener (Regular sugar or low-calorie options)
Dry Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened, Dutch-processed recommended)
- 1 cup Flour (Whole wheat or gluten-free blend)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup Dark Chocolate Chips (For extra chocolate flavor)
- 1/2 cup Nuts (Toasted walnuts or pecans recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, applesauce, and sweetener until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates a creamy base for the brownies.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and the ingredients are well aerated.
- Fold Dry into Wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, combining gently to maintain a tender texture in the batter without overmixing.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips and toasted nuts evenly throughout the batter to add extra flavor and texture.
- Fill Baking Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared 8×8 inch pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, indicating the brownies are perfectly cooked but still fudgy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares to ensure clean slices and the best texture.
Notes
- Use nonfat plain Greek yogurt for lower calories and to maintain the creamy texture.
- Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a richer chocolate flavor compared to natural cocoa.
- Applesauce replaces some fat, keeping brownies moist and reducing calories.
- To toast nuts, bake them at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes until fragrant, then cool before adding.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Gluten-free flour blend can be substituted for a gluten-free version.
- Adjust sweetener type to suit dietary preferences or restrictions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: low calorie brownies, Greek yogurt brownies, healthy chocolate brownies, low fat dessert, easy brownie recipe
