The Ultimate 1-Bowl Vegan Butternut Brownies: Moist, Gluten-Free, and Oil-Free Indulgence

Discover the magic of healthy dessert with these incredible 1-bowl vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free brownies, made supremely moist and naturally sweet with the delightful addition of butternut squash puree. Get ready for a guilt-free treat!

Hello, fellow food enthusiasts and sweet tooths!

While the lingering warmth of summer might still be on our minds, there’s an undeniable crispness in the air that signals one thing: it’s officially baking season! And what better way to usher in cooler days and cozy evenings than with a batch of irresistible brownies? I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly wholesome, proving that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or indulgence.

Even if it means sweating it out a little in front of my bustling double oven, I’m always eager to dive into creating new autumn favorites. This year, I’m particularly excited about these 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies. They are a game-changer for anyone seeking a treat that fits various dietary needs without compromising on that classic fudgy brownie texture we all crave. These brownies are certified vegan, completely gluten-free, made with no added oil, and contain no refined sugars. The best part? They come together with just five core ingredients, making them ridiculously easy to whip up on a whim!

This recipe is designed for maximum flavor and minimal fuss, all mixed in a single bowl for easy cleanup. It’s truly a testament to how simple, natural ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these butternut brownies are a foolproof way to impress your taste buds and loved ones.

Essential Ingredients for Your Butternut Brownies

Creating these remarkably moist and decadent brownies requires a surprisingly short list of ingredients, all chosen for their flavor and nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to gather to bring these delightful butternut brownies to life:

• Butternut Squash Puree: The secret ingredient! This vibrant puree not only adds natural sweetness and a subtle earthy flavor but also contributes significantly to the brownies’ incredible moisture and fudgy texture. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your dessert.
• Georgia Grinders Creamy Peanut Butter: This is our healthy fat source, replacing traditional oils. Its rich, creamy texture binds the ingredients together and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Look for a brand that uses only peanuts and salt, free from added sugars or oils.
• Maple Syrup: Our natural sweetener of choice. Maple syrup offers a complex sweetness that pairs beautifully with the squash and chocolate, without the need for any refined sugars.
• Almond Flour: This gluten-free flour provides a tender crumb and a delicate nutty flavor, ensuring our brownies are light yet satisfyingly dense.
• Cacao Powder: For that intense chocolate flavor we all adore. Cacao powder is less processed than cocoa powder, retaining more nutrients and a richer, darker chocolate taste.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Optional, but highly recommended for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness and delightful pockets of melted chocolate. Choose a high-quality dark chocolate for the best results.

That’s it! With these simple, wholesome ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a truly exceptional treat.

Butternut Squash: The Secret to Moist Brownies & Easy Substitutions

Doesn’t “Butternut Brownies” have a lovely ring to it? Beyond the catchy name, butternut squash plays a starring role in transforming these brownies into something truly special. Most of us are accustomed to enjoying butternut squash in savory dishes like soups and stews, especially during the colder months. But have you ever considered its potential in baking?

I absolutely adore incorporating various types of squash into my dessert recipes. They are natural powerhouses, adding an incredible amount of moisture and a luxurious creaminess to baked goods, often allowing you to reduce or eliminate added oils and sugars. Butternut squash, in particular, contributes a delicate sweetness and a beautiful golden hue to the brownies, making them visually appealing and wonderfully flavorful.

Making Your Own Butternut Squash Puree

While ready-to-go cans of butternut squash puree are a convenient option, preparing your own at home ensures the freshest flavor and allows you to control the consistency. It’s also incredibly simple! Here’s how to roast any winter squash for puree:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thoroughly scrub the exterior of your chosen squash under running water with a brush, then pat it dry.
3. Carefully halve the squash lengthwise down the center. Use a spoon to scoop out all seeds and fibrous pulp.
4. Lightly rub the cut surfaces of the squash with a bit of avocado oil or a neutral-flavored oil (this helps with caramelization and prevents sticking).
5. Place the squash halves face down on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and density of your squash. Keep a close eye on it after the 30-minute mark; it should be fork-tender.
7. Remove from the oven, flip the halves over, and allow them to cool slightly.
8. Once cool enough to handle, scoop out the soft, cooked interior flesh. You can mash it with a fork for a rustic texture or blend it in a food processor until smooth to create a silky puree perfect for these brownies.

Squash Substitutions

If butternut squash isn’t your favorite, or if you happen to have another type of winter squash on hand, feel free to substitute! Any dense, sweet winter squash will work wonderfully in this recipe. Excellent alternatives include:

• Pumpkin Puree: A classic fall flavor, pumpkin offers a similar sweetness and moisture profile.
• Acorn Squash Puree: Known for its slightly nutty and sweet flavor, acorn squash can add a unique twist.
• Sweet Potato Puree: This provides an even richer, deeper sweetness and a wonderfully creamy texture that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Using any of these options will maintain the structural integrity and delightful moisture of these healthy brownies. Experiment to find your personal favorite!

Achieving Super Moist Brownies Without Added Oil

One of the standout features of these brownies is their incredibly moist and fudgy texture, achieved without a single drop of added oil. The secret lies in a powerhouse ingredient: Georgia Grinders Creamy Peanut Butter. Instead of unhealthy oils, we rely on the natural fats present in premium nut butter to provide richness, bind the ingredients, and contribute to that coveted chewy, dense crumb.

I am a strong advocate for using Georgia Grinders nut butters in my recipes, and for good reason. Their commitment to quality is evident: each batch is handcrafted in small quantities, ensuring freshness and superior taste. What truly sets them apart, however, is their ingredient philosophy. Their products contain absolutely no added sugars, oils, or emulsifiers. In fact, their creamy peanut butter lists only two ingredients: peanuts and a touch of sea salt. This minimalist approach is exactly what I look for, as it allows the natural flavors of the nuts to shine through, providing both exceptional taste and clean nutrition.

The subtle hint of sea salt in Georgia Grinders’ peanut butter plays a crucial role in enhancing these brownies. It expertly balances and draws out the natural sweetness from the butternut squash and maple syrup, creating a complex flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly savory. This balance prevents the brownies from being overly sweet and adds an addictive quality that will have you reaching for another piece.

While I primarily used their creamy peanut butter for this specific recipe, I’ve also experimented with a blend of their creamy peanut butter and pecan butter, which added another layer of nutty complexity. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; any of Georgia Grinders’ fantastic nut butters – be it almond butter, cashew butter, or even a mixed nut butter – would work wonderfully. Each will impart its own unique flavor, allowing you to customize your brownies to your personal preference. Just ensure you’re using a natural, unsweetened variety to maintain the integrity of the recipe’s health benefits and flavor balance.

Mastering the 1-Bowl Method for Butternut Brownies

The “1-bowl” aspect of this recipe isn’t just a clever name; it’s a promise of simplicity and minimal cleanup, making these healthy brownies even more appealing. This method ensures that all the wet and dry ingredients come together harmoniously in a single mixing bowl, cutting down on dishes and making the baking process a breeze. Here’s a detailed look at how to achieve perfect 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies, along with baking options.

Mixing Your Batter

The process begins by combining all the wet ingredients first—the butternut squash puree, creamy peanut butter, and maple syrup. Stir them well until they are thoroughly integrated and smooth. This creates a uniform base that ensures even distribution of flavor and moisture throughout your brownies. Next, gradually incorporate the dry ingredients: almond flour and cacao powder. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher brownies, so stop as soon as no dry streaks remain. Finally, fold in those delightful dark chocolate chips. Ensure they are evenly distributed so every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.

Baking Options: Muffin Tins vs. Sheet Pan

For this particular recipe, I chose to bake my 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies in muffin tins. This method has several advantages:

• Perfect Portions: Muffin tins yield perfectly pre-portioned brownies, making them ideal for snacks, lunchbox treats, or mindful dessert enjoyment. No need for cutting or measuring after baking!
• Cute “Muffin Top” Shape: There’s something undeniably charming about a brownie that has a slightly domed, muffin-top appearance. It adds a rustic, homemade touch.
• Consistent Baking: Smaller individual portions tend to bake more evenly and quickly, reducing the risk of over-baked edges and undercooked centers.

To use muffin tins, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and either lightly spray the muffin cups with a nonstick cooking spray or line them with paper liners for easier removal. Divide the batter evenly among 12 muffin cups, smoothing the tops with the back of a spatula. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional brownie shape or are baking for a crowd, you can certainly use a standard 8×8 or 9×9 inch sheet pan. If using a sheet pan, remember to:

• Adjust Bake Time: A larger pan will typically require a longer baking time. Start checking for doneness after about 25-30 minutes, and be prepared to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes if needed.
• Monitor Closely: Since oven temperatures can vary, it’s crucial to watch your brownies carefully. The best way to test for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the pan. It should come out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If it comes out completely clean, your brownies might be slightly overbaked, though still delicious.

No matter which method you choose, allowing the brownies to cool sufficiently after baking is paramount. This allows them to set properly, become even fudgier, and prevents them from falling apart when you remove them from the pan. For muffin tin brownies, let them cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For a sheet pan, let them cool entirely in the pan before slicing.

Serving and Storing Your 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies

Once baked to perfection, these easy 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies are ready to be enjoyed in countless ways. They are wonderfully versatile and make for a perfect fall dessert or a wholesome snack any time of day. Their rich, fudgy texture and subtly sweet flavor make them an instant favorite.

Serving Suggestions

I personally love to pair mine with a tall, cool glass of unsweetened almond milk for an afternoon pick-me-up. The creaminess of the milk perfectly complements the dense richness of the brownies. They also make a fantastic after-dinner treat, perhaps with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee.

For an extra touch of indulgence, consider these serving ideas:

• Warm with Vegan Ice Cream: Heat a brownie slightly and top it with a scoop of your favorite vanilla or chocolate vegan ice cream. The contrast of warm brownie and cold ice cream is heavenly.
• A Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top can elevate the chocolate flavor and add a gourmet touch.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries can add a lovely tart counterpoint to the sweetness of the brownies.
• Nut Butter Drizzle: A light drizzle of extra peanut butter or almond butter can enhance the nutty notes and add more richness.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

One of the best qualities of these butternut brownies is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prep or for enjoying over an extended period. Don’t worry if you’re the sole Butternut Brownie enthusiast in your household – you can easily stash them away for later!

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cool temperature helps to maintain their fudgy texture.
• Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For longer enjoyment, these brownies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for 2-3 months.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen brownie, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them into the microwave for approximately 30-second increments until heated through to your liking. This brings back their soft, gooey center beautifully.

However you choose to enjoy them, these healthy, wholesome brownies are sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Happy baking and even happier eating!

Explore More Vegan Brownie Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with these butternut brownies, you’re in for a treat! Our collection features a wide array of vegan brownie recipes, each with its own unique twist and incredible flavor. Whether you’re looking for classic fudgy delights, unique flavor combinations, or even more healthy ingredient swaps, we have something for every chocolate lover. Dive into these other plant-based brownie creations:

• Vegan Cosmic Brownies

• Sweet Potato SunButter Brownies

• SunButter & Jelly 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

• Flourless Vegan Brownies

We Want to Hear From You!

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your culinary creations! If you decide to make this delightful 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies recipe, please let me know how it turned out for you. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to develop delicious new recipes.

Be sure to leave a comment below, along with a star rating and a review, so I can use your insights to create even more “yums” for you to enjoy. I love hearing about your experiences and any creative twists you might add!

Give me a shout on Instagram and don’t forget to use the hashtag #floraandvino to share photos of your beautifully baked butternut brownies. I can’t wait to see your creations!

For more inspiring recipes like this one, be sure to check out my Pinterest page, where you can easily pin them to save for later.

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XO Lauren

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This post is proudly brought to you by Georgia Grinders, an incredible brand whose products align perfectly with my passion for wholesome, flavorful ingredients. All words and delicious eats shared are entirely my own. Thank you for supporting the dedicated sponsors that keep me inspired and hungry for more culinary adventures!