What Are Sweet Potato Brownies?
Sweet potato brownies are a type of brownie that is made with mashed sweet potatoes. These vegan brownies are a healthier twist on traditional brownies. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, moisture, and nutritional value to this brownie recipe.
Are Sweet Potato Brownies Healthy?
Sweet potato brownies can be a healthier option compared to traditional brownies when made with wholesome ingredients. Sweet potatoes are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. When using sweet potatoes, these brownies often require less refined sugar. Additionally, you can make this recipe using healthier substitutions, such as whole wheat flour or alternative flours, which provide more fiber and nutrients. The reduced fat content, thanks to the moistness provided by sweet potatoes, can also make these brownies a healthier choice. However, sweet potato brownies are healthy, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
Are Sweet Potato Brownies Vegan?
Sweet potato brownies can be made vegan by using plant-based ingredients. Here are some vegan substitutions you can use to make vegan sweet potato brownie recipes:
Eggs: Replace eggs with a vegan egg substitute like flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water. Alternatively, you can use applesauce, mashed banana, or silken tofu as a binding agent.
Butter: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative such as vegan butter, coconut oil, or vegetable oil.
Milk: Use non-dairy milk options such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of cow's milk.
Chocolate: Use dairy-free and vegan-friendly chocolate. Look for dark chocolate or chocolate labeled as vegan. For more, check out our ‘Best Vegan Chocolate Brands’ article.
Sweeteners: Instead of honey, use alternative sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave nectar or coconut sugar to make a vegan brownie recipe.
By using these vegan substitutions, you can transform traditional brownie ingredients into sweet potato brownie recipes.
Are Sweet Potato Brownies Gluten-Free?
Sweet potato brownies can be made gluten-free, depending on the recipe and ingredients used. Generally, when making traditional brownie recipes, all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, is used. However, you can make gluten-free sweet potato brownies by using alternative flours such as almond flour, oat flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free flour blend.
When following a gluten-free diet, check the labels to ensure the ingredients are gluten-free.
How To Make the Best Brownie at Home?
Here are some tips to make the best brownies at home:
- Use quality ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the brownies.
- Measure the ingredients accurately using measuring cups and spoons.
- Use ingredients at room temperature. Take the egg, butter, and milk-based ingredients out of the refrigerator at least an hour before serving to bring them to room temperature. In this way, the cake will have an even texture. Otherwise, the cake batter may clump together.
- Melt the chocolate and butter only in a bain-marie. The taste of your chocolate will not change as long as it is not boiled. Stir frequently to avoid overheating and seizing the chocolate.
- Don't overmix the batter. Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a denser texture.
- Use the right pan. Choose the appropriate pan size (8x8 or 9x9-inch) square pan. Using a glass or light-colored metal pan can help promote even baking.
- Line the pan with parchment paper. To easily remove the brownies from the pan and prevent sticking, line it with parchment paper. This allows for easy lifting and cutting.
- Don't overbake. Brownies should be moist and fudgy in the center. Insert the toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If the cake is overcooked, it will dry out. If you undercook the cake, it can have a gummy texture.
- Let them cool properly. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This allows them to set and become easier to slice.
How To Cook Sweet Potatoes In Different Ways To Make Brownies?
Here are three different ways to cook sweet potatoes for making brownies:
Bake Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork to create small holes.
- Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake them in the oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Then, peel off the skin and mash the flesh using a fork or potato masher.
Steam Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into small, even-sized cubes.
- Place the sweet potato cubes in a steamer basket or a heatproof colander.
- Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a boil.
- Place the steamer basket or colander over the boiling water.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam the sweet potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once steamed, remove the sweet potatoes from the steamer.
- Mash them using a fork or potato masher.
Microwave Sweet Potatoes:
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork to create small holes.
- Place them on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave them on high power for about 5-8 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and wattage of the microwave.
- Once cooked, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly.
- Then, peel off the skin and mash the flesh using a fork or potato masher.
After cooking the sweet potatoes using any of these methods, you can use the mashed sweet potato in your brownie recipe as directed.
What To Serve with Vegan Sweet Potato Brownies?
Vegan sweet potato brownies can be enjoyed on their own or with ice cream or whipped cream. Serve them at room temperature or warm. Enjoy the sweet potato brownies with a cup of hot coffee or tea. Serve homemade brownies with a side of fresh fruits. You can drizzle peanut butter or caramel sauce on the brownie.
Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Sweet Potato Brownies:
- Homemade Chocolate Sauce
- Americano Coffee
- English Breakfast Tea
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- Peanut Butter Smoothie
How To Store Vegan Sweet Potato Brownies?
To store vegan sweet potato brownies, allow them to cool completely. After baking, let the brownies cool completely in the baking pan. Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares using a sharp knife. Place the brownies in an airtight container. Store them in a cool, dry place.
If you want to extend the shelf life, you can store the brownies in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Store them for 3 days in the fridge. Let them cool to room temperature before serving.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap each brownie individually in cling film or place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
How To Reheat Vegan Sweet Potato Brownies?
To reheat vegan sweet potato brownies, preheat the oven to 325 °F (160°C). Place the frozen brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If the brownies are frozen, you can let them thaw at room temperature for a little while before reheating. Place the baking sheet with the brownies in the oven. Heat the brownies for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through. Once heated, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the brownies cool slightly before serving.
Alternatively, you can use a microwave to reheat individual portions of brownies. Place a brownie slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Check the brownie's temperature and repeat in short increments if needed until warmed.
Reheating time may vary depending on the thickness and size of the brownies. Reheat them gently to preserve their moistness and texture.
