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These Greek yogurt brownies deliver all the rich chocolate goodness you expect from a classic dessert while being lighter and packed with protein. The simple swap of butter for Greek yogurt creates a fudgy treat with less fat and fewer calories. Everything comes together in one bowl, making cleanup quick. If you love the comfort of brownies but want something a bit healthier, these are sure to become a new favorite.
These brownies were a lifesaver when I wanted a healthier dessert that did not feel like a sacrifice. The first time I made them, my family went wild for the flavor and had no idea they were better-for-you brownies.
Essential Ingredients For Success
- All-purpose flour: is your base so choose unbleached flour for the best result and light texture
- High-quality cocoa powder: provides bold chocolate flavor Dutch process cocoa offers a deeper color and smoother taste than natural cocoa
- Greek yogurt: is essential for fudginess use full-fat for richness or low-fat for a lighter option and let it come to room temperature before mixing
- Pure vanilla extract: makes chocolate taste bolder Mexican vanilla is especially fragrant if you can find it
- Dark chocolate pieces: at least sixty percent cocoa content melt into the batter for dense chewy brownies
- Granulated sweetener: balances the deep cocoa flavor raw sugar gives caramel undertones and a golden crumb
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparing the Base:
- Start by placing your oven rack in the center and heating the oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Grease an eight by eight inch pan well and line it with parchment paper that extends over two edges for easy lifting
- Mixing the Foundation:
- In a large bowl whisk flour cocoa powder and a small pinch of salt until the color is uniform This step ensures the brownies have chocolate throughout and prevents dry clumps
- Creating the Heart:
- Slowly melt your dark chocolate either using short bursts in the microwave or over a gentle double boiler Once melted set aside to cool slightly before adding Greek yogurt and vanilla extract Stir until smooth and glossy
- Bringing It All Together:
- Pour the melted dark chocolate mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients Fold gently with a rubber spatula then drizzle in enough milk to create a thick but pourable batter Mix just until there are no dry streaks to prevent tough brownies
- The Final Touch:
- If you want to use extra chocolate chips or add-ins fold them in very gently Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth out the top Use a spatula so the brownies bake level and evenly
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My favorite part of this recipe is the anticipation as the kitchen fills with rich chocolate scent. When I was young we would make brownies for rainy movie nights and now I love how these healthier brownies keep that tradition without the guilt.
Perfect Pairings
Serve warm brownies with fresh raspberries or strawberries to bring out their natural sweetness. A classic scoop of vanilla bean ice cream turns these into a dreamy dessert. For a breakfast treat you cannot beat enjoying one with hot coffee.
Customization Corner
Add walnuts or pecans to the batter if you love crunch. A swirl of peanut butter or almond butter can create a marbled effect in each slice. For a fresh taste add orange zest or a drop of peppermint extract before baking.
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Keeping Your Treats Fresh
Store cut brownies between layers of wax paper in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer wrap individually and freeze for up to three months just thaw on the counter and enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of yogurt works best?
Non-fat or reduced-fat Greek yogurt yields the best texture, with plain or vanilla varieties both suitable depending on desired sweetness.
- → Can these brownies be made gluten-free?
Yes, substituting regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend produces equally moist results.
- → Why do these brownies have fewer calories?
Greek yogurt replaces traditional fats like butter or oil, lowering fat and calorie content while maintaining moisture.
- → How to keep brownies moist after baking?
Store in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and avoid overbaking for soft centers.
- → Can sugar alternatives be used?
Yes, granulated sweeteners such as white sugar, brown sugar, or sugar-free options can be used without compromising texture.