Greek Yogurt Brownies
These Greek Yogurt Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, offering a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a sweet treat after dinner, these brownies are fudgy, chewy, and surprisingly low in calories. At just 49 kcal per serving, they incorporate high-protein Greek yogurt for added nutrition, making them an ideal guilt-free dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Indulgence: These brownies are low in calories and packed with protein, allowing you to enjoy dessert without the guilt.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a batch quickly.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize these brownies with different sweeteners or flours according to your dietary needs.
- Fudgy Texture: The use of Greek yogurt keeps these brownies moist and rich, mimicking the classic brownie experience.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 16 squares per batch, they’re great for parties or as treats for friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Silicone spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan (8-inch x 8-inch)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients effectively.
- Silicone spatula: Great for folding ingredients together without overmixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.
Ingredients
These healthy Greek Yogurt Brownies are the most surprising low calories brownies you will ever try. They are fudgy, chewy brownies packed with high-protein Greek yogurt and only 49 kcal per serving.
For the Brownie Batter
- 2/3 cup Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil
- 3/4 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1 large Egg
- 1/4 cup Almond Milk (or soy milk, or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sweetener (sugar-free brown erythritol or coconut sugar or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 cup Oat Flour (or all-purpose flour lightly packed, swept)
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
How to Make Greek Yogurt Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure that it reaches the right temperature for baking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8-inch x 8-inch brownie pan with parchment paper. Lightly oil the pan to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate Chips
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/3 cup of chocolate chips along with the coconut oil. Allow it to cool for a few minutes at room temperature.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: oat flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, almond milk, and melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Sift the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently using a silicone spatula until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 7: Add Remaining Chocolate Chips
Stir in the remaining 1/3 cup of chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 9: Bake Brownies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-23 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
Step 10: Cool Before Cutting
Remove from oven and let cool on a cooling rack for about an hour before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Brownies!
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Brownies
These Greek Yogurt Brownies are delightful on their own, but serving them with a few extras can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will tantalize your taste buds.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and place them on top for a juicy contrast.
- Raspberries: Add a handful of raspberries for a tart flavor that complements the sweetness.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Traditional Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess and richness.
- Greek Yogurt Topping: Use plain Greek yogurt mixed with honey for a healthier twist that pairs well with brownies.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Melted Dark Chocolate: Drizzle warm melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent treat.
- Caramel Sauce: For those who love a sweeter taste, a drizzle of caramel sauce works wonders.
Served à la Mode
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
- Coconut Ice Cream: For a dairy-free option, pair brownies with creamy coconut ice cream.
With Nuts or Seeds
- Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Toasted Almonds: Try toasted almond slices for a nutty addition that enhances texture.
How to Perfect Greek Yogurt Brownies
Perfecting your Greek Yogurt Brownies can make all the difference in achieving the ideal texture and flavor. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps to create a smoother batter, leading to fudgier brownies.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level oat flour for accurate measurement; too much can dry out your brownies.
- Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your brownies tender and avoid toughness.
- Cool completely before cutting: Allowing brownies to cool ensures cleaner cuts and better presentation.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate chips for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Greek Yogurt Brownies
Pairing side dishes with your Greek Yogurt Brownies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that provides a creamy contrast to the chewy brownie texture.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the brownies.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse makes for an indulgent complement that brownie lovers will enjoy.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A healthy option that’s creamy and slightly crunchy; it adds nutritional value to your dessert plate.
- Almond Butter Dip: A simple almond butter dip can give your brownies an extra layer of flavor while keeping it healthy.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free alternative that delivers lightness and tropical flavor alongside your brownies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Greek Yogurt Brownies can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes helps ensure the best results.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients to avoid texture issues.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing melted chocolate to cool slightly before mixing prevents cooking the egg. This ensures a smooth, fudgy brownie.
- Overmixing the batter: Stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of the desired chewy texture.
- Using the wrong pan size: Stick to an 8-inch x 8-inch pan for even baking. A different size can alter cooking time and texture.
- Not checking for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, your brownies are ready.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Greek Yogurt Brownies in an airtight container.
- They stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Greek Yogurt Brownies
- Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Greek Yogurt Brownies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This restores their fudgy texture.
- Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds on low power. Check carefully to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet covered with a lid for about 5 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Greek Yogurt Brownies.
Can I use flavored Greek yogurt for these brownies?
You can use flavored Greek yogurt, but it may alter the overall flavor of your brownies. Vanilla or plain is recommended for best results.
Are Greek Yogurt Brownies gluten-free?
Yes, if you choose oat flour or another gluten-free flour option, your brownies will be gluten-free.
How do I know when my Greek Yogurt Brownies are done?
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in nuts, dried fruit, or additional chocolate chips to customize your Greek Yogurt Brownies.
Final Thoughts
These Greek Yogurt Brownies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or spices. They make a great guilt-free treat that satisfies cravings without falling off your healthy eating plan. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful balance of health and indulgence!
Greek Yogurt Brownies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 16 brownies 1x
Description
Discover a healthier take on classic brownies with these Greek Yogurt Brownies. Rich, fudgy, and surprisingly low in calories, each brownie packs a protein punch thanks to high-protein Greek yogurt, making it an ideal guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for family gatherings or as a satisfying sweet treat after dinner, these brownies can be customized with your favorite mix-ins, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of decadence. At only 49 calories per serving, they are the perfect dessert option for those looking to satisfy their cravings without the added guilt.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil
- 3/4 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1 large Egg
- 1/4 cup Almond Milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sweetener (sugar-free or regular)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 cup Oat Flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare an 8-inch x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/3 cup chocolate chips with coconut oil and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together oat flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, almond milk, and cooled chocolate mixture until smooth.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Stir in the remaining chocolate chips and pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 20-23 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (30g)
- Calories: 49
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
