Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food – Sweet Potato Brownies with a Twist! This recipe is a little gem that combines rich chocolate goodness with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes. I first stumbled upon it during a holiday gathering where everyone was sharing their own unique dessert recipes. Someone brought a similar dish, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how delicious it was while being relatively healthy. I had to create my own version, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in my kitchen!
These brownies have become my go-to treat, especially when I’m trying to impress guests or just indulge myself on a cozy night in. The twist? I like to add in a sprinkle of cinnamon and a hint of almond extract for that extra layer of flavor. The end result is a fudgy dessert that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself while actually sneaking in some nutritious ingredients. Who doesn’t love some sneaky health benefits in their dessert? Now, let’s get to the good stuff!
What’s in Sweet Potato Brownies with a Twist?
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! These bring natural sweetness and a moist texture to the brownies. I usually steam or roast my sweet potatoes to get them perfectly soft.
Cocoa Powder: Quality matters here! I prefer using unsweetened cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor. Look for Dutch-processed cocoa for an even deeper taste.
Maple Syrup: This adds a lovely, natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the chocolate. I’m a fan of pure maple syrup, as it has that authentic flavor you just can’t get from the processed stuff.
Almond Butter: This creamy nut butter is not only tasty, but it also adds healthy fats. If you’re not a fan of almond butter, peanut butter works great too!
Almond Extract: Just a little splash goes a long way in enhancing the flavor. It adds a delightful nuttiness that complements the chocolate.
Cinnamon: You can’t forget this warm spice! It adds a cozy aroma and flavor, making every bite just feel like a hug.
Baking Powder: A must for that deliciously chewy texture that we love in brownies. Just make sure it’s fresh!
Chocolate Chips: Because who doesn’t need extra chocolate in their brownies? Use dark or semi-sweet depending on your taste preference.
Is Sweet Potato Brownies with a Twist Good for You?
You bet! These brownies are a fantastic alternative to traditional desserts.
Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, they’re wonderful for your immune system and skin health.
Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, cocoa can boost heart health. Just be cautious with sugar content from added ingredients.
Maple Syrup: While it’s still a sugar, it has a lower glycemic index than processed sugar, which is a nice bonus. But keep an eye on portions!
Almond Butter: This ingredient offers protein and healthy fats, making your dessert a little more satiating.
Overall, this treat is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still being mindful about what you’re eating.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Brownies with a Twist
– 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 large sweet potato)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– Servings: About 12 brownies
How to Make Sweet Potato Brownies with a Twist?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and almond butter. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Add in the almond extract, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix until everything is just combined.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if you like to make it extra chocolaty.
5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are perfectly fine).
7. Let it cool for a bit before slicing into squares and indulging!
Sweet Variations and Tips for My Sweet Potato Brownies
– Swap out the almond butter for peanut butter or sunbutter if that’s what you’ve got on hand!
– If you want some texture, feel free to fold in nuts like walnuts or pecans.
– Top your brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt right after taking them out of the oven for a delightful sweet and salty contrast.
– These brownies are excellent with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
I truly hope you give these Sweet Potato Brownies with a Twist a try! They’re such a delightful treat that I love making for friends and family or just as a cozy treat for myself. If you whip up a batch, I’d love to hear how they turn out! Happy baking!