Healthier Brownies

Isn't it a funny thing that when you declare to the world that you set ______________________ goal with your diet and exercise that it seems everyone is out to test your taste bud limits. The closer I get to stage ready, the more often "random" pies and cookies end up in my kitchen and friends become super-foodie-chef-wannabes.

I can't imagine doing that to my girl friends (unless of course she were to compete against me....kidding). My best advice- no one likes those kind of people. Show your friends some love, real honest to goodness brownie love that won't sabotage their goals. They will thank you, and so will your hips.

Healthier Brownies

• 1/2 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder (Hershey's special dark)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce or pure pumpkin puree
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup Stevia in the Raw
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp instant coffee granules
• 1/3 cup oat flour (or whole wheat pastry)
• 2 tbsp coconut flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray an individual brownie pan or 8 inch square baking pan, with non stick cooking spray.

In a large bowl mix together all of he dry ingredients. Mix the applesauce and egg whites and gently fold into the dry mixture. Stir only until moistened.

Pour into prepared pan. Sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until desired texture is reached. Less time will result in a more dense, gooey brownie and longer time will produce a cake like brownie.

Chocolate Chip Brownies

We all need to indulge every now and then. Let's be honest, I am human, you're human and we need decadent treats here and there. These are not good for you really. I do use coconut oil and stevia instead of butter and sugar. But seriously, don't eat these every day. ;)

• 1/2 cup extra virgin coconut oil
• 3 ounces quality semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup Stevia in the Raw
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup unbleached flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp instant coffee granules
• 1 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a square 8x8 inch baking pan.

Place the chopped chocolate in a glass bowl. Melt the coconut oil and pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 3 to 4 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add the stevia, coffee and salt, mixing until dissolved.

In a separate bowl whisk the eggs and vanilla. Add to the chocolate mixture, beating until smooth and glossy. Add the flour. Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving 1/4 cup to sprinkle over the top.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread evenly and sprinkle with the reserved chocolate chips.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting. This will help them set properly.

 No nutrition information for these needed.