Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these brownies deliver deep chocolate flavor with a soft, fudgy texture without using any flour. They’re naturally gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and can be made dairy-free and vegan. Sweet potatoes bring in natural sweetness and moisture, making these brownies not only tasty but nourishing too. It’s a great dessert or snack option that feels indulgent without the guilt.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large sweet potato (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Pierce the sweet potato a few times with a fork and microwave for 5–7 minutes until soft. Alternatively, roast it in the oven at 400°F for 45 minutes.
- Once cooked, peel the sweet potato and mash the flesh until smooth (you should have about 1 cup).
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, almond butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 brownies
Calories: 150 kcal per brownie
Variations
I sometimes switch things up by using peanut butter instead of almond butter for a more classic flavor. For added indulgence, I mix in white chocolate chips or swirl in a bit of nut butter on top before baking. To make these vegan, I opt for maple syrup instead of honey and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
storage/reheating
I store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To reheat, I microwave a brownie for 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked warmth.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of fresh?
Yes, I can use canned sweet potato puree, just make sure it’s 100% pure and not sweetened or spiced.
Are these brownies vegan?
They can be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and choosing dairy-free chocolate chips.
What can I use instead of almond butter?
I like using peanut butter or even sunflower seed butter as an alternative. It slightly changes the flavor but works just as well.
Can I add protein powder to these brownies?
Yes, I sometimes add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder. I may need to adjust the moisture slightly by adding a tablespoon of almond milk.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
I check by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.
Conclusion
These flourless sweet potato brownies are one of my favorite healthier desserts. They’re easy to make, rich in chocolate flavor, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Whether I’m baking for myself or sharing with friends, they’re always a hit!
Print
Flourless Sweet Potato Brownies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These fudgy brownies are naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients like almond butter and mashed sweet potato—gluten-free and delicious.
Ingredients
1 large sweet potato (about 1 cup mashed)
½ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
Microwave sweet potato for 5–7 minutes or roast at 400°F for 45 minutes until soft. Peel and mash (about 1 cup).
In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potato, almond butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and baking powder.
Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts if using.
Spread batter evenly in prepared pan.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely before cutting into 12 squares.
Notes
Use canned sweet potato puree (unsweetened) as a shortcut.
Swap almond butter for peanut or sunflower seed butter.
Use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate to make it vegan.
Add protein powder with a splash of almond milk for balance.
Swirl nut butter or white chocolate on top before baking for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American