Vegan Skillet Brownie

Rich, fudgy and totally delicious, this Vegan Skillet Brownie is absolutely indulgent! Made in a single bowl and baked/eaten completely out of a skillet, this recipe is truly the perfect share dessert. Top with dairy-free vanilla ice cream, throw in some spoons and go to town. Let's learn how to make it!

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Vegan Skillet Brownie Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• Black Beans (1 15oz can): Black beans are used as a base to provide moisture and a fudgy texture to the brownies. They also contribute to the overall richness of the dessert. You won't taste them at all!
• Water (¼ c): Water is used to help achieve a smooth black bean texture in the blender. You can add a little more if you blender is having trouble.
• Dark Chocolate (4 oz, 50-70%): Dark chocolate provides the primary chocolate flavor for the brownies. It adds depth, richness, and a slightly bitter undertone to balance the sweetness.
• Vegan Butter (⅔ c): Vegan butter is a plant-based fat that adds moisture, richness, and a buttery flavor to the brownies. It helps create a tender texture.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Vanilla extract adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the brownies, complementing the chocolate and enhancing the overall taste.

Dry Ingredients

• Granulated Sugar (1 c) and Light Brown Sugar (1 c): These sugars sweeten the brownies and contribute to their structure and texture. Brown sugar also adds a hint of molasses flavor.
• Instant Espresso Powder (2 tsp): Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor by adding depth and intensifying the richness of the dark chocolate without imparting a distinct coffee flavor.
• Salt (¾ tsp): Salt enhances the flavors in the brownies, balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate taste.
• Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder (¾ c): Cocoa powder contributes to the chocolatey goodness of the brownies. Dutch-processed cocoa provides a smoother flavor and a darker color.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 c): Flour is a key structural ingredient, providing the necessary structure and chewiness to the brownies.
• Nondairy Chocolate Chips (1 c): Nondairy chocolate chips add extra bursts of chocolate throughout the brownies, providing gooey pockets of melted chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Steps for Making a Vegan Skillet Brownie (with pictures!)

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and lightly grease a 10 inch cast iron skillet with vegan butter. Set aside.
2. Blend: Rinse and drain black beans. Place in a blender with the water and blend until completely smooth. This may take a few minutes. Set aside.
3. Make Bater: Add dark chocolate and vegan butter to a large microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second increments whisking after each until chocolate is completely melted. Add granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the bowl. Whisk for 1 minute. Add espresso powder, vanilla and salt. Whisk until ingredients are evenly incorporated. Pour in the cocoa powder and all purpose flour. Whisk until just combined. Do not over-mix. Fold in the chocolate chips. 
4. Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared skillet. Bake on center rack of preheated oven for 45 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies will come out slightly wet. This is OK! The center of the brownie will be soft and fudgy. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with dairy free vanilla ice cream and eat straight from the skillet or scoop out individual slices. 

Tips for Making a Vegan Skillet Brownie

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vegan ingredients, including vegan butter, dark chocolate, and nondairy chocolate chips, to enhance the overall flavor and texture of the brownie.
2. Drain and Rinse Black Beans: Ensure that you drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly before using them. This helps remove any excess salt and preservatives, ensuring a clean taste in the brownies. Read the ingredients on the can to ensure there are no other spices included!
3. Choose the Right Vegan Butter: Select a vegan butter with a similar fat content to traditional butter for a comparable texture. Some brands work better in baking, so experiment to find your preferred choice.
4. Check Dark Chocolate Ingredients: When choosing dark chocolate, check the ingredients to ensure it's dairy-free. Aim for dark chocolate with a cocoa content between 50-70% for a balanced flavor.
5. Preheat Your Skillet: Preheat the skillet before adding the batter. This helps create a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside fudgy. A hot skillet ensures even baking.
6. Experiment with Cocoa Powder: If you can't find Dutch-processed cocoa powder, regular cocoa powder will work, but the Dutch-processed variety generally provides a smoother flavor. Experiment based on your taste preferences.
7. Do Not Over-mix the Flour: When adding the flour, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can result in a tougher texture, so aim for a smooth batter without excessive stirring.
8. Let it Cool: Allow the brownie to cool for a bit if you intend on slicing. This helps in setting the brownie and makes it easier to cut without falling apart. By comparison, don't worry about this too much if you intend to eat the brownie right out of the skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the black beans with another ingredient?

No. Black beans serve as a unique base for moisture and texture. They are preferred for their neutral taste and fudgy consistency.

Is it necessary to preheat the skillet before baking?

Preheating the skillet is not strictly necessary. I have made this recipe many times without doing so and it always turns out fine. That said, preheating the skillet helps create a slightly crispy exterior while ensuring even baking. It also contributes to the overall texture of the brownie.

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa powder?

While Dutch-processed cocoa powder is recommended for its smoother flavor, you can use regular cocoa powder as a substitute. The flavor may be slightly different, so adjust according to your preference.

Can I omit the espresso powder if I don't like coffee?

Yes, you can omit the espresso powder if you don't enjoy a coffee flavor. It won't drastically impact the recipe, but the espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without giving a strong coffee taste.

FAQ's Continued

How do I know when the skillet brownie is done baking?

Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out slightly wet. Avoid over-baking to maintain a fudgy texture.

Can I make the skillet brownie gluten-free?

Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour alternatives, but keep in mind that the texture may vary. Look for a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time and bake it later?

It's best to bake the brownie immediately after preparing the batter to ensure optimal texture. If needed, you can refrigerate the batter for a short time, but the baking powder's effectiveness may decrease over time.

How to Serve a Vegan Skillet Brownie

Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Warm and Gooey: Serve the skillet brownie while it's still warm and gooey from the oven. This enhances the fudgy texture and intensifies the chocolate experience.
2. Scoop of Vegan Ice Cream: Top the warm brownie with a generous scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream. The warm and cold combination is a classic and delightful pairing.
3. Straight from the Skillet: Allow the brownie to cool slightly, top with vanilla ice cream and set out with some spoons. You and your guests can eat this masterpiece right out of the pan!
4. Individual Servings: Portion the skillet brownie into individual servings and serve them on plates with small forks.
5. Fresh Berries: Garnish the skillet brownie with a handful of fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The fruity freshness complements the chocolatey richness.
6. Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, on top of the brownie for added crunch and flavor.
7. Vegan Caramel Sauce: Pour a generous amount of vegan caramel sauce over the brownie for a rich and indulgent treat.

How to Store a Vegan Skillet Brownie

Storing a vegan skillet brownie properly is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here's a guide on how to store your vegan skillet brownie:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the brownie within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container or cover the skillet with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Make sure it's completely cooled before covering.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the vegan skillet brownie. Allow it to cool to room temperature first, then cover the skillet with plastic wrap or transfer the brownie to an airtight container. Refrigeration helps extend its shelf life for up to a week. This recipe is not freezer friendly.
3. Avoid Moisture: Regardless of the storage method, it's crucial to keep the brownie away from excess moisture. Moisture can lead to a change in texture and promote mold growth. Use airtight containers or wrap the brownie securely to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
4. Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy a refrigerated brownie, allow it to come to room temperature first. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a warm and gooey experience or warm the whole skillet in the oven at a low temperature.

Remember that the specific storage duration can vary depending on the ingredients and your kitchen conditions. Always use your judgment and sensory cues to determine if the brownie is still good to eat.

If you make this recipe please tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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