Introduction

Brownies are often considered the ultimate indulgent dessert, but they don’t always have to be loaded with sugar and fat. If you love brownies but want a healthier, lighter version that still delivers that rich, fudgy chocolate flavor, look no further than these Greek Yogurt Brownies! By replacing some of the traditional ingredients with Greek yogurt, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s high in protein, moist, and irresistibly fudgy.

These brownies are not only delicious but also a great option for those who are looking for a healthier alternative to their favorite indulgence. Whether you’re following a high-protein, low-carb, or general healthy-eating lifestyle, these Greek Yogurt Brownies are the perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

This recipe is easy to make, with a minimal ingredient list that still delivers a rich, decadent brownie experience. Get ready to indulge in a dessert that’s both satisfying and healthy!

Why Greek Yogurt?

Greek yogurt is the hero ingredient in these brownies for several reasons:

  • Adds Moisture: Greek yogurt helps create a dense, moist texture in the brownies, making them rich without needing additional butter or oils.
  • High in Protein: Greek yogurt is a fantastic source of protein, which not only helps to support muscle growth and repair but also keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
  • Lower in Fat and Sugar: Greek yogurt has less fat and sugar than regular yogurt or other dairy products, making it a healthier choice for baking.
  • Probiotic Benefits: With its probiotics, Greek yogurt supports digestion and gut health, which can be an added bonus to your diet.
  • Creaminess: The tangy, creamy consistency of Greek yogurt adds an extra layer of richness to the brownies, giving them an amazing texture.

Now, let’s dive into the full recipe!

Ingredients:

For this recipe, you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

  1. 1 cup almond flour – You can also use whole wheat flour if you prefer, but almond flour keeps this recipe lower in carbs and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
  2. 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened) – This gives the brownies their rich chocolate flavor.
  3. 1/2 tsp baking powder – To help the brownies rise and become fluffy.
  4. Pinch of salt – To balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.
  5. 1/2 cup sweetener – You can use your favorite low-carb sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit, or regular sugar if preferred. Adjust to taste.

Wet Ingredients:

  1. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%) – Adds creaminess and protein.
  2. 2 large eggs – These bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the brownies.
  3. 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture without additional sugar or fat.
  4. 1/4 cup melted coconut oil – Or olive oil, for healthy fats.
  5. 1 tsp vanilla extract – To enhance the flavors and add depth.
  6. 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk) – Use your preferred milk to help blend the ingredients together smoothly. Almond milk works great for a low-carb version.

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark, sugar-free if needed) – These give the brownies extra indulgence and chocolatey richness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) – For some crunch and added healthy fats.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray. This will ensure your brownies come out easily after baking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sweetener. Make sure all the dry ingredients are evenly combined and there are no lumps of cocoa powder or flour. This will ensure your brownies have a smooth, even texture.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a separate, larger bowl, beat together the Greek yogurt, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or hand mixer to combine until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The Greek yogurt will add a nice creaminess to the batter.

4. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients:

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until well-combined. The batter will be slightly thick but should spread easily. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to help thin it out slightly. The Greek yogurt will already contribute moisture, but the consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape while baking.

5. Fold in the Optional Add-ins:

If you’re using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage. This adds an extra layer of richness and crunch to your brownies.

6. Bake the Brownies:

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Tip: Start checking around 25 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. If the top is set and the toothpick comes out mostly clean, your brownies are ready!

7. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After they’ve cooled slightly, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper, and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

(Assuming 12 brownies per recipe)

  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbs: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g (depends on sweetener used)
  • Protein: 5g

These brownies are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a perfect option for a filling snack or a post-workout treat.

Storage Tips:

If you’re not going to eat all the brownies right away (though we doubt you’ll be able to resist!), here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigeration: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5–7 days. They’ll keep their texture and flavor, and the Greek yogurt helps them stay moist for longer.
  • Freezing: These brownies freeze well, making them great for meal prep! Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Tips and Variations:

  • Use Other Flours: If you don’t want to use almond flour, you can try oat flour or coconut flour. Be sure to adjust the quantity based on the type of flour, as they all absorb moisture differently.
  • Vegan Version: To make these brownies vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Caffeine Kick: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor and add a coffee flavor, which pairs beautifully with chocolate.
  • Double Chocolate: If you’re a real chocolate lover, add a bit of cocoa nibs or extra chocolate chips to the batter for a double-chocolate experience.