Decadent Grain-Free Vegan SunButter & Jelly Brownies: Your Ultimate Allergy-Friendly Treat

Indulge in these rich, grain-free vegan brownies featuring a luxurious SunButter & jelly swirl, crafted with organic sunflower seed butter and a vibrant homemade strawberry chia jam. Perfect for a mindful dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.

It’s been a moment, hasn’t it? Life has been a delightful whirlwind since we last connected. On my end, I’ve officially submitted the third round of edits for my cookbook, meaning the manuscript is finally out of my hands and into the capable hands of copy editors. It’s an exhilarating milestone that calls for celebration!

Beyond the professional front, I also received my second COVID vaccine dose, which left me wonderfully wiped out for a full day. I embraced the stillness, spending the day curled up in my favorite recliner, journaling, brainstorming new ideas, and dreaming big for the future of my brand, Flora & Vino. It was a rare opportunity to think beyond daily tasks, beyond the cookbook, and even beyond the current pandemic — envisioning what exciting adventures lie ahead.

So, what’s next on the menu for you, my dear reader? These incredibly decadent SunButter & Jelly Brownies, of course! They are everything you crave in a brownie: rich, fudgy, and utterly satisfying, yet entirely grain-free and refined-sugar-free. To elevate them further, they feature a luscious swirl of creamy SunButter and homemade strawberry chia jam, transforming a classic childhood favorite into a sophisticated, plant-based dessert. Seriously, what could be better than combining the beloved flavors of PB&J with a rich chocolate brownie?

Essential Ingredients for SunButter & Jelly Brownies

Crafting these extraordinary SunButter & Jelly Brownies requires a thoughtful selection of wholesome ingredients that ensure both incredible flavor and a delightful texture, all while adhering to grain-free, refined sugar-free, and vegan principles. This recipe simplifies the classic peanut butter and jelly combination by leveraging the creamy, rich profile of SunButter, making it an excellent choice for those with nut allergies or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, plant-based alternative.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create this amazing treat:

• Flax eggs: These plant-based binders are essential for holding the brownies together, providing a perfect vegan alternative to traditional eggs. They contribute to the fudgy texture.
• Unrefined coconut sugar: For a natural and less processed sweetness, coconut sugar offers a rich, caramel-like flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate and SunButter.
• Pure maple syrup: Adding another layer of natural sweetness and moisture, maple syrup helps create that coveted fudgy consistency without relying on refined sugars.
• Organic SunButter: The star ingredient! This organic sunflower seed butter delivers a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that is distinctly delicious. We’ll be using it both in the brownie batter and generously swirled on top.
• Almond flour: As the foundation of our grain-free brownies, almond flour provides a tender crumb and a subtly sweet flavor, making these brownies accessible to those avoiding gluten or grains.
• Raw cacao powder: For that deep, intense chocolate flavor and rich color, raw cacao powder is indispensable. It’s packed with antioxidants and lends a sophisticated bitterness that balances the sweetness.
• Baking powder: A touch of baking powder helps these brownies achieve a slight lift while maintaining their dense, fudgy core.
• Strawberry chia seed jam: While you can use your favorite homemade or store-bought jam, a homemade strawberry chia jam is highly recommended. It adds a fresh, fruity tang and lovely texture to the swirl.

That’s the complete list! With these simple yet powerful ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a batch of truly unforgettable brownies.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make SunButter & Jelly Brownies

Creating these delightful SunButter & Jelly Brownies is a straightforward process, broken down into manageable steps. The key to success lies in proper preparation and gentle handling of the batter. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve the perfect fudgy texture and beautiful swirl.

Prepare Your Jam: First things first, if you’re opting for homemade strawberry chia jam, now is the time to prepare it. It’s simple to make and truly enhances the flavor of these brownies. The best part? Any leftover jam is fantastic in oatmeal bowls, spread on pancakes, slathered on toast, mixed into yogurt, or even in classic PB&J sandwiches!

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it incredibly easy to lift the baked brownies out of the pan for cooling and slicing.

Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, begin by preparing your flax eggs. Combine ground flaxseed with filtered water and whisk thoroughly with a fork. Let this mixture rest for five minutes; it will thicken and achieve a gel-like consistency, acting as your vegan binder.

Once your flax eggs are ready, add the coconut sugar, pure maple syrup, and half of the Organic SunButter to the bowl. Stir everything together until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This creates the foundational wet mixture for your rich brownie batter.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Now, it’s time to add the dry components. Sift in the baking powder, unsweetened cacao powder, and almond flour. Sifting prevents clumps and ensures an even distribution throughout the batter. Mix well with a spatula or spoon until all ingredients are fully incorporated and there are no dry spots or clumps remaining. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until smooth.

Create the Swirl: Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer using a spatula. Now comes the fun part: spoon the homemade strawberry jam (or your jam of choice) and the remaining ½ cup of SunButter into repeating lines across the top of the brownie batter. Aim for distinct lines, leaving a little space between each.

I *love* using Organic SunButter in this recipe, not just for its delicious taste, but also for its impressive nutritional benefits. Each serving boasts 7g of plant-based protein, along with more essential vitamins and minerals than most nut butters. What’s more, this sunflower seed butter contains no added salts or sugars, making it an exceptional baking ingredient. You won’t have to worry about accidentally altering the delicate balance of flavors with unwanted sodium or sweetness.

Once your lines of SunButter and jam are in place, grab a butter knife. Gently drag the knife through the lines, moving in alternating directions, to create beautiful swirls. Have fun with it! The goal is an organic, rustic look, so it doesn’t have to be perfectly uniform. Just remember to avoid overmixing, or you’ll end up with a less defined “soup” of SunButter and jelly on top rather than distinct swirls.

Baking and Meal Prep Notes for Perfect Brownies

After all your careful preparation, it’s time to bake these beauties! Getting the baking time just right is crucial for achieving that desirable fudgy center. Once baked, proper cooling and storage will ensure your SunButter & Jelly Brownies remain delicious for days to come, making them an excellent candidate for meal prep or simply having a sweet treat on hand.

Baking Instructions: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges of the brownies start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan and the top begins to show subtle cracks. It’s important to note that brownies may appear and feel slightly under-done when first removed from the oven. This is perfectly normal and actually desirable for maintaining a super fudgy interior once cooled. Over-baking can lead to dry brownies, so err on the side of caution!

Cooling for Perfection: Resist the urge to cut into them immediately! Allow the SunButter & Jelly brownies to cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, an hour. This cooling period is vital; it allows the brownies to set properly, firm up, and become easier to slice without crumbling. Cutting them too soon can result in a messy, gooey (albeit still delicious) outcome.

Slicing and Serving: Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire slab of brownies out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into neat squares with a sharp knife. These brownies are wonderfully versatile and can be served warm, straight from the oven (after cooling slightly), or chilled for a firmer, more intense chocolate experience.

Storage Solutions: These brownies are fantastic for meal prep! Once sliced, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, they freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave when a craving strikes for a square of something sweet and satisfying.

Delicious Ways to Serve SunButter & Jelly Brownies

These SunButter & Jelly Brownies are more than just a simple dessert; they are an elevated treat, perfect for baking, layering, and sharing. They offer a sophisticated twist on a classic, tapping into our cherished childhood favorites while delivering a rich, plant-based experience. Their moist, decadent, intensely chocolatey, and delightfully berry-licious profile makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Here are some creative and classic ways to enjoy these fantastic brownies:

• Warm and Simple: Serve them slightly warm, allowing the SunButter and jam swirls to become even more melty and luxurious. This brings out the deep chocolate notes beautifully.
• Chilled Perfection: For a denser, chewier texture and a refreshing bite, enjoy them chilled straight from the refrigerator.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Elevate your dessert game by pairing a warm brownie square with a scoop of your favorite vegan vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold, fudgy and creamy, is simply divine.
• Fruit Topping: Garnish with a few fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) and a sprinkle of chopped sunflower seeds for added texture and a pop of color.
• Coffee or Tea Companion: These brownies are an ideal companion for your afternoon coffee or a warm cup of herbal tea, making for a perfect mindful moment.
• Potlucks and Parties: Because they are grain-free, vegan, and can be made nut-free (thanks to SunButter), they are an excellent option for catering to various dietary needs at gatherings and potlucks.

Don’t have fresh strawberries on hand? No problem! Feel free to experiment with other berry varieties for your homemade jam. Raspberries or blueberries would create equally delicious and vibrant jam variations, each offering a slightly different flavor profile to your brownies.

As mentioned in the meal prep section, these brownies are incredibly freezer-friendly. Make a large pan and stash individual squares in the freezer. This ensures you always have a wholesome, sweet treat readily available for whenever a craving strikes, or for unexpected guests.

If you don’t have Organic SunButter, you can certainly try substituting your favorite nut or seed butter for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that this would alter the “allergy-friendly” aspect if nuts are a concern. Almond butter or cashew butter could offer a creamy, rich alternative, while pumpkin seed butter might provide a unique, earthy note.

No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these SunButter & Jelly Brownies are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every delicious, wholesome bite!

More Irresistible Vegan Brownies Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with these SunButter & Jelly Brownies, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of vegan brownie recipes is brimming with diverse flavors and textures, ensuring there’s a perfect brownie for every craving and occasion. Explore these other fantastic plant-based brownie creations:

• Vegan Cosmic Brownies

• Sweet Potato SunButter Brownies

• Flourless Vegan Brownies

• Pumpkin Almond Butter Brownies

• Blueberry Mousse Brownies

• No-Sugar-Added Black Bean Brownies

• Cashew Butter Buckeye Brownies

• Super Fudgy Vegan Brownies

• Matcha Dusted Raw Brownies

• Avocado SunButter Swirl Brownies

• Black Sesame Butter Brownies

• 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies

I Want to Hear From You: Share Your Creations!

I genuinely love connecting with you and seeing your culinary adventures! If you try this incredible SunButter & Jelly Brownies recipe, please don’t keep it a secret. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue creating more delicious, wholesome recipes for you to enjoy. I pour my heart into developing these dishes, and hearing about your experiences brings me so much joy.

Be sure to leave me a comment below with your thoughts, a star rating, and a review of how these brownies turned out for you. Did you make any substitutions? What did you love most about them? Your insights help not only me but also other bakers in our community who are looking for new plant-based favorites.

And of course, I’d absolutely love to see your beautiful creations! Give me a shout on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino. Tag me in your posts so I can admire your delicious brownies and share them with our growing community. It’s truly inspiring to see how you bring these recipes to life in your own kitchens.

For more plant-based recipe inspiration and to discover other healthy treats, check out my Pinterest page. You can easily pin more recipes like this one to your boards to make later, creating a personalized collection of your favorite wholesome eats.

If you’re loving this post and want to stay updated with all the latest recipes, tips, and personal stories from Flora & Vino, head over to my homepage and subscribe to my newsletter. You’ll get new content delivered straight to your inbox, ensuring you never miss a delicious update!

XO Lauren

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This post is proudly brought to you by SunButter. While the partnership supports our kitchen adventures, all the words, recipes, and delicious eats are entirely my own. We are grateful for sponsors who help us continue to explore and share wholesome, delightful recipes!

Photography for this delectable recipe was expertly captured by Hot Pan Kitchen.