Gluten-free Vegan Brownies Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the perfect treat that combines indulgence with mindful eating, these Gluten-free Vegan Brownies are nothing short of a revelation. Imagine biting into fudgy, gooey squares topped with that irresistible crinkly crust, all completely free from gluten, eggs, and dairy. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply craving a cozy, rich dessert, these brownies feel like a warm hug baked into every bite. The best part is how quickly you can get them from bowl to oven, making these brownies a wonderful go-to for last-minute guests or a weekend baking spree.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Gluten-free Vegan Brownies lies in a handful of simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from enhancing texture and flavor to ensuring the perfect fudgy finish.

• 100ml of room temperature water: Needed to activate the flaxseed “egg,” adding structure without eggs.
• 60g of ground flaxseed: This is our plant-based binder that mimics eggs and keeps the brownies moist.
• 260g of caster sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that shiny, crinkly top.
• 300g of dairy-free dark chocolate: The star ingredient providing rich chocolate depth and gooeyness.
• 160g of dairy-free butter or margarine: Bringing butter-like creaminess without dairy, essential for that fudgy texture.
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract: A little aromatic warmth that elevates the chocolate flavor.
• 210g of gluten-free plain flour: Keeps everything together while making these brownies safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder: Offers just enough lift for a tender crumb.
• 80g of cocoa powder: Intensifies chocolate flavor and deepens the color for rich brownies.

How to Make Gluten-free Vegan Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Flax “Egg”

Start by mixing the ground flaxseed with room temperature water in a small bowl. Stir them together and let it sit for about 10 minutes while it transforms into a thick, jelly-like mixture. This flax “egg” is key to giving your brownies the right binding power and moisture without using any eggs.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

Next, melt three quarters of the dairy-free dark chocolate gently in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, creating a bain-marie. Stir it until smooth, then let it cool slightly. In a separate saucepan, melt your dairy-free butter or margarine over low heat. Once melted, whisk the sugar into it until well combined. This smooth, sweet mixture forms the decadent base of your brownies.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Into the butter and sugar mixture, whisk in the flax “egg,” melted chocolate, and vanilla extract. This harmony of ingredients builds the fudgy, dense structure that defines these brownies.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together the cocoa powder, gluten-free flour, and baking powder to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing. Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until you have a glossy, thick brownie batter—resist overmixing to keep them tender.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your luscious batter into a parchment-lined 8×8 inch baking tin. Scatter the remaining quarter of chopped chocolate over the top for some melty pockets of extra chocolate goodness. Bake at 180°C Fan for 25 to 28 minutes. When done, your brownies will have a beautiful crinkly top but still be soft and fudgy inside. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature for at least 3 hours — this is what helps them set perfectly!

How to Serve Gluten-free Vegan Brownies

Garnishes

Sometimes, the simplest additions make the biggest difference. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of your brownies just before serving to balance the sweetness and intensify the chocolate flavor. You could also dust with powdered sugar or add a handful of chopped nuts for some crunch.

Side Dishes

These brownies are divine on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream takes them to another level. Fresh berries, especially raspberries or strawberries, brighten the richness and add a refreshing touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, arrange brownie bites on a platter layered with edible flowers or mint leaves for a pop of color. You can also cut them into mini squares and serve skewered with fruit and vegan marshmallows for a fun dessert kebab. Another tip: warm them slightly and serve in a bowl topped with ice cream for a gooey, decadent treat that’s impossible to resist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftover Gluten-free Vegan Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and fudgy for up to a week, perfect for keeping sweet treats on hand through a busy week or for sharing unexpectedly.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these brownies later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When craving a quick dessert, just thaw overnight in the fridge or briefly at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive the fudgy texture and warmth, gently microwave your brownie for 15–20 seconds or warm it in a low oven wrapped in foil. Serve with your favorite vegan ice cream for a delightful dessert experience reminiscent of fresh-from-the-oven brownies.

FAQs

Are these Gluten-free Vegan Brownies really fudgy?

Absolutely! Thanks to the combination of dairy-free butter, dark chocolate, and flax “egg,” these brownies come out wonderfully fudgy and moist, with a gooey center that melts in your mouth.

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free?

You can, but it will change the texture slightly. The recipe is designed for gluten-free flour to keep it accessible for those avoiding gluten. Using all-purpose flour will yield a similar but less dense brownie.

Is the flax “egg” necessary?

Yes, the ground flaxseed soaked in water acts as a vegan binder, helping the brownies hold together without eggs. It also adds moisture and contributes to the dense texture.

Can I make these brownies oil-free?

The recipe is already free from added oils, relying on dairy-free butter or margarine for fat and richness. If you want a lower-fat version, you might experiment with applesauce, but it could affect the fudgy texture.

How long do these brownies keep fresh?

Stored properly in the fridge, these Gluten-free Vegan Brownies stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, retaining their moistness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about these Gluten-free Vegan Brownies that combines hearty comfort with thoughtful ingredients, making them a perfect treat for nearly any occasion or dietary preference. I can’t recommend them enough when you want a luscious, satisfying chocolate experience that everyone can enjoy. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!