Fudgy Vegan Brownies

Tap an ingredient or step to check it off.

1. 1Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. 2Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tbsp ground flax with 5 tbsp water. Set aside to thicken. Skip this step if using the apple sauce.
3. 3Step 3: Some people notice a flavor when using the flax (I never have this issue) so if that worries you, stick to the applesauce. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
4. 4Step 4: In a medium pot on the stove, add the sugar and water and whisk together. Heat over medium/low heat. Stir occasionally, but after about 5-10 minutes, the sugar should completely dissolve.
5. 5Step 5: Be sure you don't add any extra water. The water will look somewhat cloudy, but you shouldn't notice any clumps of sugar. This is key for the shiny crust!
6. 6Step 6: Meanwhile, in a large bowl, stir together all dry ingredients except for the chocolate chips if using (we'll add these later).
7. 7Step 7: Some people notice a flavor when using the flax (I never have this issue) so if that worries you, stick to the applesauce. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
8. 8Step 8: Once the sugar has completely dissolved, give it a final whisk, then pour it into the dry ingredients.
9. 9Step 9: Add all remaining wet ingredients, including the flax eggs once thickened or the applesauce and mix together with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until a batter forms. Careful not to over mix, stir just until combined.
10. 10Step 10: Fold in the chocolate chips if using. They're optional, but they do help the top get shinier and add a richer chocolate flavor.
11. 11Step 11: Transfer to an 8x8 baking pan lined with parchment paper.
12. 12Step 12: Sprinkle with additional chocolate chips if desired.
13. 13Step 13: Bake for 35-42 minutes. about 38 was perfect in my oven, but check with a toothpick. Bake for longer if you don't like a fudgy inside and shorter if you want them really fudgy.
14. 14Step 14: Remove from the oven, let cool completely, then slice around the edges of the pan and lift out the brownies using the parchment paper. Slice into 16 squares & enjoy! The longer you let cool, the easier/cleaner the cut will be.