Oh Vegan Spelt Brownies, friends, there’s just something inherently magical about a brownie, isn’t there? That deep, comforting chocolate hug in a square, perfectly fudgy and intensely satisfying, always seems to hit the spot, and while I adore classic recipes (and even unique creations like my Paleo Chocolate Brownies with Honey Strawberry Hearts), my kitchen explorations often seek to elevate familiar comforts with a nutritious twist.
That’s precisely how my journey to these incredible Vegan Spelt Brownies began on a quiet Sunday afternoon, inspiring a craving for something warm, nurturing, and utterly delightful. Combining the wholesome earthiness of spelt flour and the natural sweetness of applesauce with the surprising, jeweled pop of pomegranate creates an unexpected burst of flavor you’ll adore — a concept so charming it’s even featured on wonderful platforms like BakeMode. These brownies are truly more than just a dessert; they’re a little act of self-care, a gentle reminder that delicious can also be wonderfully nutritious. So, come on in, let’s make some kitchen magic!
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Spelt Brownies
These vegan spelt brownies are truly a game-changer for anyone seeking a healthier spin on a classic. What makes them so special is the clever use of wholesome spelt flour, offering a nutty depth and lovely texture, combined with applesauce for natural sweetness and incredible moisture. They hit all the right notes: rich chocolate flavor, a perfectly fudgy center, and that delightful slightly crackled top. Plus, the vibrant pomegranate arils add a burst of juicy tartness that elevates every bite, making them feel incredibly gourmet yet comforting.
The Secret to Great Vegan Spelt Brownies
The real magic in these brownies lies in two unsung heroes: the quality of your cocoa powder and the applesauce. Using a rich, unsweetened cocoa powder is non-negotiable for that deep, intense chocolate flavor. And for the applesauce, opt for unsweetened if possible to control the overall sweetness. It acts as a fantastic egg replacer and a natural moistening agent, ensuring your brownies are never dry or crumbly. The secret is also not to overmix the spelt flour, which can develop too much gluten and result in a tougher texture. Gentle folding keeps them tender and perfectly fudgy.
Pro Tips to Nail It Every Time
For perfectly fudgy vegan spelt brownies, don’t skimp on the cooling time. I know it’s hard, but letting them cool completely in the pan allows them to set properly, preventing them from crumbling when sliced. Another tip is to lightly toast your spelt flour before mixing, just for a few minutes in a dry pan, to enhance its nutty flavor even more. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of espresso powder stirred into the batter will deepen the chocolate notes without adding a coffee taste. It’s my little secret weapon for rich chocolate desserts!
Fun Variations to Try Vegan Spelt Brownies
While these brownies are incredible as is, feel free to play around! For a different fruit twist, try adding dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries instead of pomegranate. You could also swirl in a spoonful of almond or cashew butter before baking for a creamy, nutty ripple. If you want an extra layer of indulgence, a sprinkle of vegan chocolate chips or chopped walnuts can be folded into the batter just before baking. Don’t be afraid to make them your own; that’s the joy of home baking!
Final Thoughts
Baking these vegan spelt brownies feels like a warm hug, a sweet reward after a long week. They embody everything I love about homemade treats: wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special and incredibly delicious. From the nutty embrace of spelt flour to the bright burst of pomegranate, every element sings. These aren’t just brownies; they’re a celebration of mindful eating and joyful indulgence. So go ahead, whip up a batch, gather your loved ones, and savor every fudgy, flavorful bite. Happy baking, my friends!
My Go-To Vegan Spelt Brownies for a Wholesome Treat
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalWholesome and fudgy vegan spelt brownies made with natural applesauce and a delightful pop of fresh pomegranate arils. A healthier twist on a classic chocolate treat!
Ingredients
1 ½ cups light spelt flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
½ cup plant-based milk (almond or oat work well)
½ cup melted coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup fresh pomegranate arils, plus more for garnish
Optional: ½ cup vegan chocolate chips
Directions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- 3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the applesauce, sugar, plant-based milk, melted oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay.
- 5. Gently fold in the ½ cup of pomegranate arils and optional vegan chocolate chips.
- 6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- 7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- 8. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out and slicing. This is crucial for fudgy texture!
- 9. Garnish with additional fresh pomegranate arils before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Spelt Flour Savvy: Spelt flour is a wonderful ancient grain, but it can be a bit sensitive to overmixing, which can lead to a tougher brownie. Mix until just combined, and no more, to keep these brownies perfectly tender and fudgy.
- Applesauce Power: For the best results, use unsweetened applesauce. This allows the natural sweetness of the apples to shine and gives you control over the added sugar. It’s the secret to keeping these brownies incredibly moist without eggs!
- Pomegranate Pop: For maximum flavor and texture, fold in most of the pomegranate arils during the last moments of mixing. Save a few for sprinkling on top just before serving; their fresh burst of flavor and color is truly delightful!
