I’m so excited to share my Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe with you because it’s one of those unexpected treats that completely wowed me the first time I tried it. Combining earthy, naturally sweet beetroot with rich, fudgy chocolate brownies results in a texture and flavor combo that’s irresistible yet somehow feels a little bit nourishing. The smooth, creamy chocolate avocado frosting is the perfect finishing touch – lush, decadent, and made without any dairy! If you love chocolate but want to sneak in some veggie goodness in a delicious way, you’re going to adore this recipe as much as I do.
Why You’ll Love This Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe
What really hooked me on this Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe is the flavor profile that strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. The beetroot adds a subtle earthiness and natural sweetness that enriches the deep cocoa notes without overpowering the brownies. When you bite in, you get this dense, moist fudginess that somehow feels lighter and more sophisticated than a traditional brownie. Topping it with a smooth avocado-chocolate frosting elevates the dessert, blending creamy and chocolate-y flavors in a way that feels both healthy and utterly luxurious.
Another reason I love making these brownies is how straightforward and forgiving the recipe is. You really don’t need to be a baking expert, and the ingredients are simple but thoughtfully chosen to create that special texture and taste. Plus, it’s super versatile for all kinds of occasions. Whether I’m baking for a family get-together, a weekend treat, or even a holiday dessert, this recipe shines. It stands out because it’s unique, wholesome, and delivers a comforting yet exciting twist on classic brownies that everyone ends up asking for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but each plays a vital role, whether it’s to add moisture, texture, natural sweetness, or that irresistible chocolate flavor. Here’s what you’ll gather to make these special brownies and their frosting:
- All-purpose or alternative flour: I like using spelt or wholemeal for a nuttier flavor and a touch more fiber.
- Coconut sugar: Adds a gentle caramel undertone without overpowering the chocolate.
- Cocoa or raw cacao powder: The heart of the chocolate flavor; I always recommend raw cacao for an extra antioxidant boost.
- Ground chia or flax seeds: Acts as a binder, especially useful for plant-based baking.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Helps the brownies rise just enough while keeping them dense and fudgy.
- Beetroot puree: Adds moisture, sweetness, and that gorgeous vibrant color.
- Melted vegan chocolate: For that rich, smooth chocolate depth that makes these brownies irresistible.
- Neutral flavored oil: Keeps texture moist without altering flavor.
- Dairy-free milk: Adds a little extra moisture and helps combine the ingredients.
- Vanilla paste (optional): Lifts the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Avocado: The star of the frosting—adds creaminess and a healthy fat punch.
- Medjool dates: Natural sweetener that balances the tartness of the cocoa and avocado.
- Maple syrup: For adjusting sweetness to your taste in the frosting.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with baking paper. This prep ensures easy removal and clean edges when the brownies are ready.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, chia or flax seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt if you’re using it. Make sure to break up lumps so the batter will be smooth and even.
Step 3: Add in the wet ingredients — beetroot puree, melted vegan chocolate, oil, dairy-free milk, and vanilla paste if using. Stir everything together gently until fully combined. The batter should feel thick but scoopable.
Step 4: Pour or spoon the batter into your lined baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the surface evenly. This helps the brownies bake uniformly.
Step 5: Bake the brownies for 15 to 20 minutes. I recommend checking at 15 minutes to see if a skewer inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This keeps the brownies fudgy without drying them out. Longer baking yields a crispier edge.
Step 6: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. They will firm up as they cool, which helps when spreading the frosting later.
Step 7: While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting by blending avocado, cocoa powder, pitted dates, and maple syrup in a food processor. Blend until silky smooth. Taste and add more maple syrup or cocoa powder if you want it sweeter or more chocolatey.
Step 8: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the chocolate avocado frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon for a smooth finish.
Step 9: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into 16 portions. I find smaller squares perfect for a rich dessert, especially with the frosting on top.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 16 servings, making it perfect for sharing with friends or family. The prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 15 to 20 minutes of baking time. Cooling time takes another 15 to 20 minutes before you can frost and serve. Altogether, you’re looking at just under an hour from start to finish — which is quite reasonable for such a special and wholesome treat.
How to Serve This Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe
I love serving these brownies slightly chilled or at room temperature. The frosting is luscious and creamy, and a little chilled helps it hold its shape perfectly. I sometimes garnish mine with a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of crushed toasted nuts for a nice textural contrast. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, also pair wonderfully if you want a burst of tartness alongside the rich chocolate.
As for occasions, I find these brownies perfect for weekend family dinners, casual parties, or even holiday gatherings where you want something a little different from the usual desserts. They’re unexpected yet universally appealing, so they often spark conversations! When I bring these along to potlucks, they’re always a hit because of their unique flavor and moist texture.
To elevate your presentation, try cutting the brownies into neat squares and arranging them on a platter with a drizzle of dark chocolate or a side of dairy-free whipped cream. If you want to pair beverages, robust red wines like a Merlot or a gently spiced chai latte perfectly complement the chocolate and earthy beet flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a rich cold brew coffee or a nutty almond milk latte also works really well.
Variations
One of the things I adore about the Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe is how adaptable it is. If you want to switch things up, swapping the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blends works beautifully to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing texture. You can even experiment with almond flour for a nuttier crumb, although this will change the moisture level a bit, so watch your batter consistency.
If you’re vegan or looking to keep the recipe refined sugar-free, the dates and maple syrup in the frosting are perfect, but you could also swap maple syrup for agave nectar or coconut nectar to adjust sweetness or flavor notes. For a flavor twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the batter – it adds a subtle warmth that pairs wonderfully with the beet and chocolate.
For a different cooking method, I’ve even tried making these as individual cupcakes, baking them in a muffin tin for 12-15 minutes and then frosting once cooled. It’s a fun presentation for parties or packed lunches! Just remember that every slight variation in size will affect the baking time, so keep a close eye on them.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve made these brownies, leftovers keep wonderfully well. Store the unfrosted brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If already frosted, I recommend refrigerating them in a sealed container for up to five days to keep the avocado frosting fresh and creamy. Glass containers with tight lids work best to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these brownies, especially if you want to make them ahead or save some for later treats. I suggest freezing them unfrosted for best texture, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, and then spread the frosting fresh for best results.
Reheating
Since these brownies are moist and dense, I usually just enjoy them at room temperature or chilled rather than reheating. But if you prefer warm brownies, gently warming a single portion in the microwave for 10-15 seconds works well. Avoid overheating, as it can dry them out or cause the frosting to separate. For a warm treat, I recommend adding frosting after warming rather than reheating a fully frosted brownie.
FAQs
Can I use raw beets instead of cooked beetroot puree?
It’s best to roast or boil the beetroot first and then puree it to ensure the brownies have the right texture and moisture. Raw beetroot would be too firm and could dry out the batter or prevent it from blending smoothly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This recipe doesn’t include nuts unless you choose to garnish with them. Just be sure your chocolate and any dairy-free milk you use are processed in nut-free facilities if allergies are a concern.
Can I make the frosting without dates?
While dates add natural sweetness and contribute to the creamy texture, you can substitute with other soft dried fruits like soaked raisins or apricots. Alternatively, add a bit more maple syrup, but be careful not to add too much liquid which could thin the frosting.
How fudgy are these brownies compared to traditional ones?
They’re definitely on the fudgier side, especially if you bake them closer to 15 minutes. The beetroot and oil keep the brownies moist and dense, perfect if you like a rich, chewy texture rather than cakey.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Doubling works well; just be sure to use a larger baking pan or two pans, and extend the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the brownies as baking times can vary slightly when doubling recipes.
Conclusion
I truly hope you give this Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe a try because it’s such a wonderful, indulgent way to enjoy chocolate while sneaking in some wholesome ingredients. Every time I make them, I’m amazed by how many people ask for the recipe and come back for seconds. It’s a dessert that feels special, tastes amazing, and always brings smiles around the table. I can’t wait for you to experience these brownies’ magic yourself!
Print
Beetroot Brownies with a Chocolate Avocado Frosting Recipe
These Beetroot Brownies with Chocolate Avocado Frosting offer a healthier twist on traditional brownies by incorporating nutrient-rich beetroot and creamy avocado. They are moist, fudgy, and naturally sweetened, perfect for a guilt-free dessert or snack that combines vegetable goodness with indulgent chocolate flavor.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cup (210g) all-purpose plain flour (spelt or wholemeal flour)
- 1 cup (160g) coconut sugar (to taste)
- 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa or raw cacao powder
- 1 tablespoon (12g) ground chia or flax seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- ~1 cup (200g) beetroot puree (about 1 medium beetroot)
- 3/4 cup (165g) melted vegan chocolate
- 1/4 cup (65g) neutral flavored oil
- 3 tablespoons (45g) dairy-free milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste (optional)
Chocolate Avocado Frosting Ingredients
- 1 medium avocado (skin and seed removed)
- 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa or raw cacao powder
- 4 medjool dates (pitted)
- 1–4 tablespoons maple syrup (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 8 or 9 inch (20 or 23 cm) square baking pan with baking paper to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all dry ingredients (flour, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, ground chia or flax seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt). Stir until there are no lumps for an even mixture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the beetroot puree, melted vegan chocolate, neutral flavored oil, dairy-free milk, and vanilla paste (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until combined into a thick batter.
- Prepare Batter for Baking: Pour or scoop the batter into the lined baking pan and use a spoon or spatula to smooth out the surface evenly.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. For fudgier brownies, bake closer to 15 minutes; for crispier edges, extend baking up to 20 minutes. The brownies are done when the surface feels dry and a skewer inserted comes out with some moist crumbs but not raw batter.
- Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly before frosting.
- Prepare Avocado Frosting: In a food processor, combine the peeled and pitted avocado, cocoa powder, medjool dates, and maple syrup (start with 1 tablespoon and add up to 4 tablespoons to taste). Puree until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness or cocoa to your preference.
- Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled, evenly spread the avocado chocolate frosting on top using a spatula or knife.
- Serve and Store: Cut the frosted brownies into 16 portions with a sharp knife. Store unfrosted brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Keep frosted brownies refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for up to one month.
Notes
- Use spelt or wholemeal flour for a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour.
- Beetroot puree adds moisture, sweetness, and a subtle earthy flavor, enhancing the brownies’ texture and nutrition.
- Adjust the baking time based on your preferred brownie consistency: less time for fudgy, more for cakey.
- The avocado frosting is naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup and provides healthy fats for creaminess without dairy.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting of the avocado topping.
- Variations: Add chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian American
- Diet: Vegan
