Brownies.

 

I made brownies on the weekend that have been ridiculously popular among my classmates. I thought I'd share the recipe for these brownies that are guilt-free because they are sugar-free, refined oil-free, whole-grain, and vegan. Some of the ingredients may seem foreign so feel free to substitute for more "regular" products (e.g. substitute ground flaxseeds with eggs, carob chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips) ...but remember they won't be quite as healthy. :P

3/4 cup water
1/2 cup dried dates
1 mashed banana
1/4 cup ground flaxseeds
1/4 cup nut/seed butter
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1 and 1/4 cup spelt flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
pinch of salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup carob chips
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Another 1/4 cup carob chips

Soak the dates in the water for an hour or two (up to 24 hours). Blend the dates with the water in a blender. Pour the date puree in a bowl and add the ground flaxseeds. Let this mixture set 10 minutes. Add the mashed banana and nut butter.

In a new bowl, mix all of the dried ingredients. Now add the wet to the dry. Pour the batter into a greased 8x8 (inches) or 9x9 baking pan that has been greased with oil. Sprinkle the batter with the remaining carob chips.

Bake at 375 F for 20-30 minutes. The brownies will be ready when the center has set. If them seem a bit moist when out of the oven that is ok (let them sit 10 minutes and they should have a normal texture).

Store the cooled brownies in the fridge and eat within 5 days. Makes about 12 brownies.