Satisfy chocolate cravings with this healthy, 3-ingredient vegan recipe
These fudgy brownies prove you don't need sugar or flour to make decadent chocolate treats. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes combines with rich cocoa and creamy almond butter for a moist, gluten-free dessert that's perfect for vegan diets.
Ideal for busy cooks, this recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep time and bakes in 25 minutes. The result is a dense, fudgy texture with a glossy top that's sure to impress guests.
The natural sugars in sweet potatoes eliminate the need for refined sugar, while almond butter adds healthy fats and protein. These brownies maintain a rich chocolate flavor without any artificial ingredients.
Whether you're following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier dessert option, these brownies deliver the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition.
Pair with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat that still fits your dietary needs.
Why This Recipe Works
Natural Sweetness
Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and moisture without refined sugar. The roasting process concentrates their sugars for a caramel-like flavor.
Healthy Fats
Almond butter adds monounsaturated fats for a rich texture while keeping the recipe vegan and dairy-free.
Gluten-Free
No flour or gluten-containing ingredients used, making this recipe safe for gluten-free diets.
Quick Baking
Ready in 35 minutes total, these brownies are perfect for last-minute desserts or holiday baking.
3-Ingredient Sweet Potato Brownies
Guilt-free fudgy chocolate squares made with sweet potatoes, cocoa, and almond butter
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 ½ cups mashed sweet potato (about 2 medium roasted sweet potatoes)
- - ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- - ½ cup almond butter (no-stir preferred)
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
💡 Use no-stir almond butter for smooth texture
Mix: In a large bowl, combine sweet potato, cocoa powder, and almond butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.
💡 Add 1 tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor
Bake: Pour mixture into prepared dish. Smooth surface with a spatula. Bake for 25 minutes or until edges are set.
💡 Check doneness with a toothpick
Cool: Let cool completely before slicing into 12 squares.
💡 Store in an airtight container
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Sweet Potato
Provides natural sweetness and moisture. Use roasted or steamed sweet potatoes for best results.
Substitute: 1 ½ cups mashed pumpkin or butternut squash
Cocoa Powder
Adds rich chocolate flavor without sugar. Use unsweetened for best results.
Substitute: ½ cup melted dark chocolate (70% or higher)
Almond Butter
Adds healthy fats and protein. Look for no-stir varieties to avoid clumps.
Substitute: ½ cup peanut butter or cashew butter
Optional Add-Ins
Enhance flavor with ¼ cup chocolate chips, 1 tsp vanilla extract, or 1 tbsp maple syrup.
Pro Tips for Perfect Brownies
🍪 Texture Tip
For extra fudgy texture, chill the batter for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the ingredients emulsify better.
🔥 Baking Tip
If the center is undercooked after 25 minutes, cover with aluminum foil and bake for 5 more minutes.
🧈 Flavor Boost
Add ½ tsp cinnamon or 1 tsp melted coconut oil for extra richness.
❄️ Storage Tip
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
Variations & Customizations
Nut-Free Version
Replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
Spiced Version
Add ½ tsp ground cinnamon and ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice for a fall twist.
Mini Bites
Use a mini muffin tin to make bite-sized brownies that freeze well.
Chocolate Drizzle
Melt vegan chocolate and drizzle over cooled brownies for extra decadence.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Vanilla ice cream (dairy-free or traditional)
- Whipped coconut cream
- Cherry compote
- Almond milk hot chocolate
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a rich dessert wine like Port or a spiced chai tea. For non-alcoholic options, try hot chocolate with cinnamon or a sparkling fruit soda.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled brownies in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or 7 days refrigerated.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating Instructions
Microwave individual brownies for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Brownies too dry?
A: Check oven temperature with a thermometer. Ovens can run hot. Baking time may need adjustment.
Q: How to make them more chocolatey?
A: Add 2-3 tbsp melted dark chocolate or increase cocoa powder to ¾ cup.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: How to store for travel?
A: Wrap individually in parchment paper and store in an insulated lunch bag with ice packs.
Final Thoughts
These 3-ingredient sweet potato brownies prove that healthy desserts can be just as indulgent as their traditional counterparts. The combination of rich cocoa, creamy almond butter, and naturally sweetened sweet potatoes creates a fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings without any refined sugar or flour.
Whether you're following a vegan lifestyle, need a gluten-free option, or simply want a healthier dessert alternative, these brownies deliver on all fronts. They're perfect for holiday baking, quick weeknight treats, or packing for on-the-go snacks.
Don't let the simplicity of the ingredient list fool you - these brownies pack a flavorful punch that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Try them as is, or get creative with add-ins and variations to make them your own.
