Cosmic Brownies (Flourless, Gluten Free)
Welcome back to my series on recreating the nostalgic flavors of the 2000s with a healthy twist! Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane with a childhood classic: Cosmic Brownies. Those individually wrapped squares of fudgy chocolate goodness, studded with rainbow sprinkles, were a lunchbox staple (or maybe a sneaky after-school treat!). But the store-bought versions loaded with mystery ingredients and artificial flavors when we can whip up a homemade batch bursting with that same delicious nostalgia – and healthy upgrades!
In this episode, we'll be ditching the questionable stuff for wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. This recipe makes rich, fudgy brownies made with applesauce for moistness, maple syrup for sweetness, and dark chocolate for a decadent depth of flavor. We'll still have that all-important chocolate glaze and a sprinkle explosion, of course – just like the good ol' days, but better for you! You've got to check these out
Cosmic Brownies (Flourless, Gluten Free)
Anne Murray, MS, RD
Made with wholesome ingredients, these brownies boast a dense and fudgy texture that lets you sink your teeth into pure chocolatey bliss. These brownies are not only flourless but also refined sugar-free, making them a perfect option for anyone with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier dessert alternative. Top them with a sprinkle of rainbow candies (optional!) for a cosmic crunch that brings back all the good memories.
Course Dessert
Cuisine brownies, Dessert, nostalgic foods
Cosmic Brownie Base
- 1/2 c Unsweetened Applesauce
- 2 Eggs
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/3 c Maple Syrup
- 2 T Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar
- 1/3 c Cocoa Powder
- 2 tbsp Corn Starch or Sub Arrowroot Powder
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/2 bar Melted Dark Chocolate
- 2 tbsp Ghee Butter or Sub Coconut Oil
Dark Chocolate Ganache
- 1 can Unsweetened Full Fat Coconut Milk Trader Joe's brand is great
- 1 c Dark Chocolate Chips
- Rainbow Candy Toppings
Preheat oven to 350 and line baking dish with parchment paper
In a mixing bowl combine apple sauce, maple syrup, coconut sugar, eggs, vanilla, cocoa powder, corn starch, sea salt, baking soda with a whisk.
In a microwave safe dish, combine 1/2 bar of dark chocolate and 2tbsp ghee butter and melt at 30 second intervals, stirring in between
Wait for melted chocolate to cool slightly (2-3 minutes) then add into the rest of the mixture and combine thoroughly.
Once mixture is all combined transfer with rubber spatula to a lined baking dish
Bake for ~20-25 minutes at 350
Toothpick should come out clean once the brownies are ready
Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack for 1-2 hours
Dark Chocolate Ganache
Begin making this *AFTER* the brownies are cooled, it will harden quickly.
Take 1c of dark chocolate chips and one can of unsweet full fat coconut milk and combine on a saucepan at low heat. Continue to whisk and let the mixture thicken. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon
Once the mixture is at desired texture, transfer to a measuring cup and place in the fridge for 5 minutes
Once slightly cooled, pour melted chocolate over brownies and smooth out using a rubber spatula
Top with rainbow candies and refrigerate
Once chocolate has hardened on top of brownies, cut and enjoy!
Store these brownies in the fridge
Recipe Notes:
- Sweetener Options: You can substitute the maple syrup in this recipe with another liquid sweetener like date syrup, agave nectar, or monk fruit syrup. The sweetness may vary slightly, so adjust the amount to your taste.
- Fudgy vs. Cakey: For a slightly cakier texture, bake for the full recommended time. If you prefer extra fudgy brownies, reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes. Keep in mind the brownies will continue to set as they cool.
- Dietary Needs: These brownies are naturally gluten-free and refined sugar-free. To make them vegan, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 10 minutes) instead of regular eggs and use vegan chocolate chips for the topping (if using).
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Sprinkles: While the rainbow sprinkles add a nostalgic touch, feel free to get creative with your toppings! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a drizzle of nut butter would be delicious options.
Enjoy these delicious and healthy cosmic brownies – a fun and nostalgic treat you can feel good about!
Tag me on Instagram when you make these! @nourished_by_anne Keyword brownie recipe, cosmic brownies, gluten free recipes, healthy dessert, refined sugar free
