Easy Homemade Brownies with a Crackly Top and Fudgy Center

These Homemade Brownies strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate flavor and a lighter, more mindful treat. Made with simple, better-for-you ingredients, they offer all the gooey, decadent goodness you expect from a classic brownie—without overdoing it. Whether you’re craving something sweet after dinner or want a guilt-friendly dessert for guests, these brownies never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep Chocolate Flavor – Rich cocoa and chocolate chips bring bold chocolate taste.
Moist and Fudgy Texture – Each bite is soft, chewy, and delightfully dense.
Lighter Ingredients – Yogurt and unsweetened applesauce keep things moist without excess fat.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup granulated erythritol (or sugar of choice)
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick spray.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together applesauce, yogurt, egg, vanilla, and sweetener until smooth.

3. Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.

4. Pour and Top
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top if using.

5. Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

6. Cool and Serve
Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing into 12 squares. Enjoy as-is or slightly warm for extra gooeyness.

Nutritional Information (Per Brownie)

Calories: 90
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2.5g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overbake – Slightly underbaking gives the brownies a fudgier texture.
• Mix Gently – Stir just until ingredients are combined to keep the brownies tender.
• Customize It – Add chopped nuts, swirl in nut butter, or sprinkle sea salt for variation.

Why This Recipe Works

Using Greek yogurt and applesauce adds moisture while cutting down on fat and calories. The result? Rich-tasting brownies that feel indulgent but fit into a balanced lifestyle. They’re simple, quick, and ideal for both everyday treats and special occasions.

These Homemade Brownies prove you don’t need butter and loads of sugar to enjoy a deeply satisfying chocolate dessert. With a fudgy texture, rich flavor, and better-for-you ingredients, they’re the ultimate sweet fix—made smarter.