I’ve always had a soft spot for indulgent desserts, especially when they strike that perfect balance between rich and comforting. The first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s vegan chocolate brownies, I was skeptical. How could a dessert so decadent be vegan? But when I took that first bite, my world changed. The brownies were dense, fudgy, and incredibly satisfying. No dairy, no eggs-just pure, unadulterated chocolate goodness. I knew I had to share this recipe with everyone.
This isn’t just any vegan brownie recipe. It’s a brownie that captures the heart of what baking should be about-simplicity, flavor, and the joy of sharing. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthier, cruelty-free dessert, these brownies are a game-changer.
Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Jamie Oliver has a way of making everything feel effortless, yet magical. His vegan chocolate brownies are no exception. When I made them for the first time, it felt like Jamie was standing beside me in the kitchen, guiding me step by step. The recipe doesn’t call for any exotic ingredients or complicated techniques, yet the results are outstanding. The brownies are dense, with a slightly crispy top and a rich, chocolatey middle that’s perfectly gooey.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the beauty of Jamie’s vegan chocolate brownies: you don’t need much. The ingredients are easy to find, and you likely have most of them already in your kitchen. Here’s the list:
- Dark Chocolate (about 70% cocoa): The heart of the recipe. This gives the brownies their deep, intense flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Replaces butter and adds a subtle tropical richness. You can use other oils, but coconut oil adds the perfect texture and flavor.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened, of course. It’s the secret to that rich, fudgy texture.
- Sugar: You can use regular sugar or swap it for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a more natural alternative.
- Plain Flour: The standard flour you’ll need. It gives the brownies structure without being too dense.
- Baking Powder: Helps the brownies rise just a little without making them airy.
- Non-dairy Milk: Any plant-based milk works here-almond, oat, or soy all give great results.
- Vanilla Extract: For that beautiful aromatic flavor that makes all desserts better.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Chocolate Brownies
The process is so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make these sooner. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Melt the chocolate: Gently melt your dark chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water (a double boiler method). Stir occasionally until smooth.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
- Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine your non-dairy milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until combined.
- Combine the wet and dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until smooth.
- Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tray and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as every oven is different. You want the brownies to be set on the outside but slightly soft in the middle.
- Cool and slice: Let the brownies cool in the tray for at least 10 minutes before slicing them into squares. The wait is hard, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Each ingredient in these brownies serves a purpose, and understanding their roles elevates the recipe from simple to extraordinary.
- Dark Chocolate: This provides the deep cocoa flavor and contributes to the richness. The higher the cocoa percentage, the more intense the chocolate flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Vegan baking often uses coconut oil as a substitute for butter. It’s high in healthy fats, which helps create that dense, fudgy texture that’s key to a good brownie.
- Cocoa Powder: This unsweetened powder is full of antioxidants and contributes to the rich, dark chocolate flavor. It also enhances the color of the brownies.
- Flour and Baking Powder: Flour provides structure while baking powder ensures the brownies don’t become too dense or heavy. It adds a little rise and lightness.
- Non-dairy Milk: It provides the moisture needed for the batter. Plus, plant-based milks (especially almond or oat milk) have a neutral flavor that doesn’t compete with the chocolate.
- Sugar: While sugar might seem like an afterthought, it’s what helps bring out the sweetness of the cocoa and creates that perfect balance.
Expert Tips
Making these brownies might seem simple, but a few expert tips can take them from great to exceptional:
- Don’t overmix the batter. Stir just enough to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
- Underbake slightly: Brownies continue cooking as they cool. Underbaking just a bit will ensure that they’re gooey and fudgy in the center.
- Use high-quality chocolate: This makes a huge difference. Go for 70% cocoa or more for that rich flavor. You’ll taste the difference.
- Rest before cutting: Let the brownies cool in the pan for a bit before slicing them. This gives them time to set and makes them easier to cut without falling apart.
Recipe Variations
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. Here are a few variations to give Jamie’s vegan brownies your own twist:
- Nutty Brownies: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Add-ins: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra burst of melty chocolate goodness.
- Spicy Brownies: For a warm kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the batter.
- Fruity Brownies: Add fresh or dried fruit, like raspberries or cherries, for a tangy contrast to the chocolate.
Final Words
There’s something so satisfying about making these vegan brownies. It’s a simple recipe, yet every time I bake them, they feel like a little act of magic. You can customize them to your liking, and they’re always a hit with friends and family-vegan or not.
FAQs
Can I Substitute The Oil In Jamie Oliver’s Vegan Chocolate Brownies Recipe?
Yes, you can use melted coconut oil or even applesauce for a lighter option.
How Long Should I Bake The Vegan Chocolate Brownies?
Bake them for 20-25 minutes, but check with a toothpick to make sure they’re cooked through.
Is This Recipe Gluten-free?
No, but you can swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.