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Bars

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownies (DF + GF)

November 18, 2019 by Rachael Ng Leave a Comment

The weather is cooling down, the holidays are quickly approaching, and what’s better than a cozy mug of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows? Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownies! These super rich chocolate brownies are flavored with peppermint extract and topped with a simple homemade peppermint marshmallow. In other words, forget about hot cocoa (for now) and indulge in one of these festive babes instead!

For this recipe I used my favorite base brownie recipe from Running with Spoons and paired it with a slightly altered version of Alton Brown’s Homemade Marshmallow Recipe. I’ve made marshmallows using a different recipe in the past and found myself disappointed with the taste. But this marshmallow topping has no funky gelatin flavor, isn’t too sweet, and has the perfect marshmallow texture! You can eat the brownies as-is or pop one in the microwave for a warm, gooey marshmallow brownie experience – this was my favorite way to eat these. And if you’re not a fan of peppermint, feel free to leave it out completely, replacing it with extra vanilla extract (or your extract of choice!).

Some of the ingredients I like for this recipe:

Coconut sugar is my go-to baking sweetener. It’s low GI, unrefined, and makes for a perfect substitute for white granulated sugar. And it tastes nothing like coconut! For a sweeter (less rich) brownie, feel free to use regular, white granulated sugar instead.

Chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) lend moisture and lots of chocolate goodness to these brownies.

Eggs make for the perfect brownie texture. Trust me, I’ve tried multiple egg replacements in this recipe, and they do not work. So don’t even try.

Instant coffee granules are totally optional but will deepen the chocolate flavor and richness in the brownies. I highly recommend adding it if you’re looking for a rich brownie!

Arrowroot starch thickens the brownie batter while also keeping it free of grains and gluten – perfect for GF and non-GF eaters alike since the taste is undetectable!

White granulated sugar is necessary for the marshmallow topping! I don’t recommend any substitutes since this topping has been tested as-is and works as-is.

Agave makes for a better alternative to corn syrup, which is what most marshmallow recipes call for. It also has a very low GI, which is great considering the higher GI of the white sugar you’ll also be using.

Yield: 16 Brownies

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownies

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Brownies

Ultra rich and fudgy peppermint brownies topped with a thick layer of homemade peppermint marshmallow! The perfect treat for a cool, winter night!

Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Additional Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

Brownies

  • 1/3 cup coconut oil, measured as a solid (or 6 Tbsp olive oil)
  • 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
  • 1 tsp instant coffee granules (optional)
  • 1/4 cup natural cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs, room temp
  • 2/3 cup coconut sugar (or cane sugar)
  • 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 Tbsp arrowroot, tapioca, or corn starch

Marshmallow

  • 1/2 cup water, divided
  • 1 1/2 packets of gelatin powder (~3 1/2 tsp)
  • 1 cup white cane sugar
  • 1/4 cup agave
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Make the brownies: preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8x8" baking dish with non-stick spray. Then line your entire pan with parchment paper. I like to cut two long strips of parchment that criss cross over each other on the bottom of the dish. Bring your eggs to room temperature by placing them in a glass of warm water for around 10 minutes.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the coconut oil and chocolate chips. Stir in the instant coffee and cocoa powder; set aside.
  3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the eggs and sugar. Whisk on medium-high speed until thick and light in color. Whisk in the peppermint and vanilla extracts. Gently fold the chocolate mixture into the sugar and eggs. Add the salt and arrowroot starch and gently mix until just combined.
  4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the brownies comes out slightly gooey - you don't want to over bake! Allow brownies to totally cool.
  5. Make the marshmallow: in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the gelatin and 1/4 cup of the water. Give it a little stir and then allow it to thicken while you heat up your sugar.
  6. In a medium or large saucepan, add the sugar, agave, salt, and the other 1/4 cup of water. Gently swirl the pan to ensure sugar is totally saturated. Set heat to medium-high (or medium for a gas range) and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the sugar's temperature. If your mixture begins to boil too high up the pan (as mine did) you can use your thermometer to gently swirl the mixture back down/hold the pot up and over the heat. I recommend using a large pot. When the mixture reaches 240°F immediately remove from the heat.
  7. With your stand mixer running at low speed, slowly pour the hot sugar mixture into the gelatin. Turn the speed to high and whisk until mixture becomes white, thick, and fluffy. I like to wait until I see soft peaks. Immediately whisk in the peppermint and vanilla extracts.
  8. Spread the marshmallow over the cooled brownies, using an offset icing spatula to spread and swirl it over the brownies. Top with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or crushed peppermint candies.
  9. Allow marshmallow to set for at least 4 hours before slicing. Run a butter knife along the edges of the brownies and use the parchment paper to lift the brownies up and out of the dish. Slice into 16 squares.
  10. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. I highly recommend popping the brownie into the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!

Notes

Brownie recipe slightly adapted from Running with Spoons & Marshmallow recipe slightly adapted from Alton Brown

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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  • 8-Inch Square Glass Baking Dish
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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

16

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 266Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 103mgCarbohydrates: 47gFiber: 1gSugar: 29gProtein: 2g

calculated nutrition information may not always be accurate

© Rachael | Sugared & Stirred
Cuisine: American / Category: Brownies

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @sugaredandstirred on Instagram and hashtag #sugaredandstirred

More chocolate recipes you might like:

Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Cookies (DF)
Spicy Hot Cocoa Muffins (DF)
Double Chocolate Mini Muffins with Salted Caramel (DF + V option)

Filed Under: Bars, Brownies, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Grain-free Tagged With: dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, holiday brownies, holiday dessert, marshmallow brownies, peppermint brownies

Pumpkin Chai Spice Rice Krispie Treats (DF)

September 4, 2019 by Rachael Ng 3 Comments

It’s officially pumpkin season in the baking world! Yeah, yeah, I know it’s technically still summer, and we’ve got a couple of weeks to go, but school’s in session, apples are in season, and we’re all just excited for the cozy days of fall! These Pumpkin Chai Spice Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect blend of warm spices and fall pumpkin flavor that we all love (well, most of us). I bumped these treats up a notch from the traditional pumpkin spice, opting to add ground cardamom and black pepper for a delicious chai spice flavoring.

As far as desserts go, I’m not sure you can get much easier. These treats are quick, easy, and so so rewarding. Maybe it’s because they remind me of childhood, but these bars are so satisfying. Feel free to add more or less spice, leave out the pumpkin, or make them even more gooey by adding an extra two cups of mini marshmallows to the melted mixture! Or, ya know, follow the recipe as-is and enjoy yourself a cozy, sweet treat.

Some of the ingredients I love for this recipe:

Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling!) adds a hint of pumpkin flavor. You’ll have a ton leftover if you’re opening a new can, so be sure to keep your pumpkin baking going!

Ground cardamom is one of my favorite dessert spices. It adds to the chai spice flavoring, and I highly recommend getting yourself some if you don’t already have it on hand.

Black pepper also lends a hand to the traditional chai spice flavor.

Vegan butter makes these treats dairy-free! Feel free to use whatever version of butter you have on hand.

Yield: 12 or 16 Treats

Pumpkin Chai Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Pumpkin Chai Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Classic Rice Krispie Treats bumped up for Fall with pumpkin purée and warm chai spices! A delicious twist on a childhood favorite!

Prep Time 20 minutes
Additional Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp pumpkin purée (water squeezed out)
  • 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/8 tsp ground cloves
  • Pinch black pepper
  • Pinch salt
  • 4 Tbsp vegan butter
  • 6 cups + 3 cups mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups crisp rice cereal

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8x8" baking dish or pan with non-stick spray. Then line with one long, thin piece of parchment paper, folding the excess over two of the sides.
  2. Spoon the pumpkin purée onto a paper towel (I like to fold one in half for double thickness) and gently squeeze out the excess water. Be careful not to squeeze too hard as the paper towel will break and the pumpkin will squirt out. Scrape the pumpkin off of the towel and set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, black pepper, and salt; set aside.
  4. Melt the vegan butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add 6 cups of the mini marshmallows and continue heating until marshmallows are just melted. Turn heat to low and stir in the pumpkin puree and spices. Turn off the heat and mix in the crisp rice cereal and the 3 cups of mini marshmallows.
  5. Dump mixture into your prepared dish and gently press into an even layer (I like to use a spatula covered in non-stick spray). Avoid pressing too firmly as that will lead to hard rice krispie treats.
  6. Allow treats to cool. Use the excess parchment paper to life the bar up and out of the dish. Slice into 12 or 16 bars and enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

  • If you don't have ground cardamom on hand, you can use a mix of 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon + 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

© Rachael | Sugared & Stirred
Cuisine: American / Category: Bars

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @sugaredandstirred on Instagram and hashtag #sugaredandstirred

Other fall baking recipes you might like:

Pumpkin Coffee Chocolate Chip Muffins (DF)
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies (DF)
Chai-Spiced Apple Hand Pies
Vegan Pumpkin Butter Sweet Rolls

Filed Under: Bars, Dairy-free Tagged With: baking, chai, chai spice, dairy-free, dessert, fall, pumpkin, rice krispie treats, spice

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars (V + GF)

September 2, 2019 by Rachael Ng Leave a Comment

Clearly I’m still on a chocolate + peanut butter kick. I. Can’t. Get. Enough. I’d like to blame the baby in my belly, but let’s be honest, who doesn’t jump at the opportunity to enjoy a chocolate PB treat?! And these No-Bake Chocolate PB Oat Bars? They’re the perfect mix of chocolate and peanut butter, and they’ve got a delicious texture thanks to the uncooked oats. They’re fairly low in sugar (compared to other similar bars) and packed with a bit of protein to boot.

This recipe comes together a bit like a no-bake cookie, but you won’t need to boil the chocolate mixture. Once you have all of your ingredients on hand, everything comes together pretty quickly – and easily – and the hardest part is waiting for them to set up in the fridge! I like to use natural peanut butter for these bars as it’s got no added sugar or oils, and it’s just so tasty!

Some of the ingredients I love for this recipe:

Coconut sugar is a low GI, unrefined sugar (that doesn’t taste like coconut!). It sweetens up these bars while also acting as a binder for the chocolate oat layer.

Natural peanut butter is nothing but ground up peanuts (and sometimes a little salt). No added oils or sugars.

Dutch process cocoa powder lends a deeper chocolate flavor and darker color to these bars.

Arrowroot starch helps thicken the chocolate mixture so it will set up in the refrigerator.

Yield: 16 Bars

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars (V + GF)

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars (V + GF)

An easy, no-bake bar made with lots of natural peanut butter, chocolate, and oats. Vegan and gluten-free, these delicious bars are perfect for many special diets.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Additional Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

Bars

  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/3 cup coconut oil or vegan butter
  • 1 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1/8-1/4 tsp salt*
  • 1/4 cup dutch process cocoa powder
  • 2 Tbsp arrowroot starch
  • 2 cups old fashioned oats

Chocolate + PB Topping

  • 3/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
  • 2 tsp coconut oil
  • 2-3 Tbsp natural peanut butter (to drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Prepare an 8x8" baking dish by spraying with non-stick spray (like olive oil) and lining with parchment paper, leaving excess paper hanging over two of the sides.
  2. In a medium saucepan, add the coconut sugar, coconut oil or vegan butter, peanut butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat until melted. Whisk in the cocoa powder and arrowroot starch. Continue heating until mixture is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the oats. Firmly press mixture into the prepared baking dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, melt your chocolate chips and coconut oil until smooth. Remove bars from the refrigerator (they'll still be warm) and pour melted chocolate over the bars. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly over the bars. Gently shake/tap your baking dish to smooth out the chocolate layer. Refrigerate bars until firm.
  4. Melt the 2-3 Tbsp of peanut butter. Use a spoon to drizzle over bars. Return bars to the refrigerator (optional) to allow peanut butter to set a bit.
  5. Allow bars to thaw at room temperature for 10-20 minutes. Run a knife around the edges without parchment paper, and then use the excess parchment paper to lift the bars up and out of your baking dish. Carefully slice into 16 squares, wiping your knife clean between each cut.
  6. Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let them thaw at room temp for a few minutes before enjoying!

Notes

*1/8 tsp if your PB is salted; 1/4 tsp if it's unsalted

You can use regular cocoa powder in place of the dutch process cocoa powder; the bars just won't be as deep in flavor/color

Corn starch or tapioca starch can be used in place of the arrowroot starch since you only need it to thicken the chocolate mixture

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • 8-Inch Square Glass Baking Dish
    8-Inch Square Glass Baking Dish
  • Arrowroot Starch / Flour
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  • Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa
    Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

16

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 296Total Fat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 143mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 4gSugar: 12gProtein: 8g

calculated nutrition information may not always be accurate

© Rachael | Sugared & Stirred
Cuisine: American / Category: Bars

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @sugaredandstirred on Instagram and hashtag #sugaredandstirred

Filed Under: Bars, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Vegan Tagged With: bars, chocolate, dairy-free, gluten-free, no bake, oat, oats, peanut butter, vegan

Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies (gluten-free & dairy-free)

August 19, 2019 by Rachael Ng 2 Comments

Fudgy and rich Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies topped with a sweet dark chocolate icing! These decadent squares are loaded with chocolate and the zucchini is undetectable!

Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

Zucchini has to be one of my favorite add-ins to baked goods. Muffins, bread, and even cake can all be deliciously made with heaps of good-for-you zucchini! A green veggie in my desserts? Yep! Because who doesn’t want to feel a little bit better when indulging in something ooey gooey and ultra chocolatey?

These brownies are so decadent and fudgy, and with a thin layer of sweet dark chocolate frosting, you won’t be able to pass them up. And once you get the brownie-making method down, this recipe is really quite easy. The chocolate can be melted in the microwave, and if you have a stand mixer, the eggs and sugar can be left for a few minutes to whip while you shred your zucchini. Throw some extra chocolate chips into the batter for an irresistible triple chocolate brownie! 

Some of the Ingredients You’ll Need + Substitutions:

  • Chocolate chips are melted and added to the batter for a seriously fudgy brownie. I recommend semi-sweet chocolate chips.
  • Dutch process cocoa powder is darker in color and richer in flavor. Since there are no leavening agents in this recipe (baking soda, etc) you can also use regular cocoa powder in its place – your brownies just won’t be dark chocolate.
  • Eggs whip up with the sugar to create a fluffy batter which gives the brownies lift, negating the need for baking soda or powder. I haven’t tested this recipe with any egg alternatives.
  • Coconut sugar is an unrefined, low GI sugar. It tastes less sweet than white sugar, and makes for a great, better-for-you alternative. Feel free to use your favorite cane sugar instead – unrefined, white, or brown (lightly packed).
  • Arrowroot starch thickens the brownie batter and helps bind the brownies together. You can use cornstarch in its place.

More zucchini recipes:

Spiced Zucchini Cake
Healthier Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffins
Gluten-Free Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffins
Dark Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Yield: 9-16 Brownies

Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

Dark Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

Ultra fudgy brownies made with shredded zucchini and dark, Dutch-process cocoa powder. These chocolate-frosted squares are grain-free + dairy-free and totally irresistible!

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Additional Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients

Brownies

  • 1 cup + 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips, divided
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (I used olive oil)
  • 2 large eggs, room temp
  • 3/4 cup coconut sugar or cane sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 Tbsp Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup arrowroot starch (or cornstarch)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup finely shredded zucchini, excess juice squeezed out (see Note 1)

Frosting

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 Tbsp Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1 Tbsp plant-based butter (or refined coconut oil), melted
  • 2 Tbsp plant-based milk

Instructions

  1. Bring your eggs to room temperature by placing them in a glass of warm water for around 10 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8" pan or baking dish with non-stick spray and parchment paper - I like to cut my parchment paper into two long pieces, criss-crossing them in the middle.
  2. Melt together 1 cup of the chocolate chips with the plant-based butter/oil in the microwave or using the double boiler method; stir and set aside.
  3. In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the eggs and coconut sugar. Whisk on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and light brown in color, adding the vanilla extract along the way.
  4. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the whisked egg mixture. Fold in the cocoa powder, arrowroot starch, and salt. Stir in the shredded zucchini and 1/4 cup of chocolate chips (optional) until combined.
  5. Bake brownies at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until the center looks set. Allow brownies to cool for 10 minutes before making your frosting. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, coconut oil or butter, and plant-based milk. Microwave the frosting until warm to the touch. Pour over warm brownies, tilting the pan until frosting is evenly distributed.
  6. Allow brownies to totally cool before slicing and serving. For clean cuts, use the excess parchment paper to remove the entire brownie square. Slice into 16 brownies, wiping your knife clean between each slice. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

  1. Measure the shredded zucchini before squeezing out the excess juice. Finely shred your zucchini with the skin on. Place on a cheesecloth or paper towel and squeeze out and discard the juice.
  2. Dutch-process cocoa powder gives these brownies a richer, dark chocolate flavor. You can use regular cocoa powder, but the brownies won't be considered dark chocolate.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

16

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 169Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 99mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 1gSugar: 23gProtein: 2g

calculated nutrition information may not always be accurate

© Rachael | Sugared & Stirred
Cuisine: American / Category: Brownies

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @sugaredandstirred on Instagram and hashtag #sugaredandstirred

Filed Under: Bars, Brownies, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Grain-free Tagged With: dairy free brownies, fudgy brownies, gluten free brownies, grain free brownies, veggie brownies, zucchini brownies

Grain-Free Caramel Turtle Brownies (DF)

May 25, 2019 by Rachael Ng 8 Comments

Before I set out to make this recipe, I debated back and forth whether I wanted the caramel baked into the brownies or slathered on afterwards. But I’m such a sucker for that crackly brownie top that I couldn’t bear covering it up! So I baked the the caramel right into the brownies by spooning it between two layers of batter. And OMG I made the right choice! These brownies are ooey gooey at room temperature and, when refrigerated, taste just like fudge. 

The caramel I use for this recipe is called a dry caramel, because it starts out in the saucepan with just sugar. I used an easy chewy caramel recipe from Cupcake Jemma (the second caramel in the video), swapping out a couple of ingredients to make it vegan. This caramel tastes amazing, whips up pretty quickly, and since you’ll be baking it into the brownies, I’d say it’s pretty stress-free.

The brownie recipe itself is pretty standard – feel free to mix more walnuts or pecans right into the batter for even more nutty goodness. You’ll pour half of your batter into a prepared baking dish, spoon caramel over the batter, and then top the caramel with the remaining brownie batter. Easy! Top the brownies with nuts, extra chocolate bits, or even salt.

A few of the ingredients I love for this recipe:

Coconut cream mimics the heavy cream that’s standard for a caramel recipe. You won’t taste it at all in this vegan caramel. It’s the perfect plant-based substitute!

Cane sugar (I used unrefined) gives the caramel that classic flavor. I’ve made caramel with coconut sugar, but the flavor is very different. I recommend using cane sugar for this recipe.

Coconut sugar helps sweeten the brownie batter. It’s my go-to sweetener for baked goods since it’s unrefined and low glycemic index.

Dutch process cocoa adds a richer chocolate flavor. And these brownies are rich. Since there are no leavening agents in this recipe, feel free to use regular cocoa powder instead.

Instant coffee helps deepen the chocolate flavor, lending to the brownies richness. This ingredient is totally optional, but I like to add it in.

Eggs help give these brownies lift and create that tried and true brownie texture.

Arrowroot starch replaces flour/grain in this recipe and helps keep these brownies moist and fudgy.

Yield: 12 Brownies

Grain-Free Caramel Turtle Brownies

Grain-Free Caramel Turtle Brownies

Decadent, fudge-like brownies filled with a layer of soft dairy-free caramel and chopped pecans! Topped with whole pecans for a nutty "turtle" candy taste.

Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Additional Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

Caramel Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar (I used Zulka unrefined cane sugar)
  • 200mil canned coconut cream
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 6 Tbsp vegan butter (I used Earth Balance Buttery Sticks)

Brownies

  • 1 1/2 cups dairy-free chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup coconut oil, solid
  • 2 tsp instant coffee granules (optional)
  • 6 Tbsp dutch-process cocoa (natural cocoa works, too)
  • 3 large eggs, room temp
  • 1 cup coconut sugar
  • 4 1/2 Tbsp arrowroot starch (or corn starch)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2-1 cup pecan halves

Instructions

  1. Prepare your caramel: measure out all of your ingredients. Then, in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add your sugar and turn the heat to medium. Push the sugar around with a wooden spoon until all the sugar is melted and turns to a nice amber color.
  2. Remove melted sugar from the heat and gradually stir in the coconut cream - your mixture will bubble up, so be careful! Stir in the vegan butter until melted. Move saucepan back to the heat and bring mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to measure the temperature. Boil just until mixture reaches 240°F-245°F (soft-ball stage). Remove from heat and pour into a heat-proof bowl.
  3. Prepare your brownies: preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare an 8x8" baking dish with non-stick spray. Then, line the bottom + all four sides with parchment paper. I like to cut two long, strips that criss-cross along the bottom, and then I fold the excess paper over the sides to help me pull the brownies out later. Also, bring your eggs to room temperature by placing them in a glass of warm water for ~10 minutes.
  4. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in spurts of 20 seconds, stirring well between each one, until chocolate is totally melted. Whisk in the instant coffee granules and cocoa powder; set aside.
  5. In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the eggs and coconut sugar. Whisk on medium-high speed until mixture is thick, fluffy, and light in color. When you lift your whisk, the batter "ribbons" should take 2-3 seconds to disappear.
  6. Fold the chocolate mixture into the whisked eggs + sugar - it may take a minute for them to combine. Add in the arrowroot starch and salt and gently mix until totally combined. Mix in the chopped pecans.
  7. Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking dish. Then spoon some of the thickened caramel over the batter, leaving ~1/2" at the edges (I used about 3/4 cup and had leftover caramel). Cover caramel with the remaining batter. Smooth out the top with a spatula and top with pecan halves.
  8. Bake at 325°F for 25-35 minutes or until brownies no longer jiggle. You can also use a toothpick to check for doneness. For optimal fudginess, you want a bit of batter on the toothpick.
  9. Allow brownies to cool totally at room temperature. For a firmer caramel, refrigerate the brownies and slice just before serving (they will taste extra fudgy when cold!). For a more melty caramel (like what's picture below), you can slice up your brownies in the pan as soon as they're cool. Store leftovers at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Notes

You can use either dutch-process (like Hershey's Special Dark) or natural cocoa powder.

The caramel recipe can be halved if you wish to avoid having leftover caramel!

Caramel recipe loosely adapted from Cupcake Jemma

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa
    Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa
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  • Arrowroot Starch / Flour
    Arrowroot Starch / Flour
© Rachael Ng | Sugared & Stirred
Cuisine: American / Category: Brownies

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @sugaredandstirred on Instagram and hashtag #sugaredandstirred

More brownie recipes:

Grain-Free Tahini Swirl Brownies
Grain-Free Orange Brownies
Grain-Free Almond Butter Brownies
Walnut Spelt Blondies

Filed Under: Bars, Brownies, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Grain-free Tagged With: brownies, caramel brownies, caramel filled brownies, caramel stuffed brownies, dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, pecan brownies, turtle brownies, vegan caramel

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Meet Rachael

Hi! I’m Rachael, a home baker who creates dairy-free, indulgent treats. As a sweets lover and former candy addict, I believe we shouldn’t have to give up everything we love in pursuit of wellness. That’s why I create delicious and approachable desserts that you can enjoy, in moderation, no matter your goals! Because, let’s face it, sometimes you just need a giant slice of frosted cake, sans guilt! Read More…

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S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookies are stuffed with marshmallow, tons of chocolate, and plenty of graham cracker crumbs and pieces!! ✨The weather has been slowly warming and we all know that summer = s’mores! 🪵🔥 What’s your fave s’mores dessert?!
Vegan Classic Brownies made perfectly chewy and delicious! 🤎 Baked with standard pantry ingredients, these brownies are simple to make and taste just as good as the non-vegan version 😇 Find the recipe at the link in my bio @sugaredandstirred
My soft-baked Peanut Butter Stuffed Chocolate Cookies are out-of-this-world delicious!! 💫 Roll them in sugar or chocolate sprinkles for an extra mouth-watering aesthetic 🤤 Find the recipe linked in my bio, friends! @sugaredandstirred 🤎
NEW! ✨ Your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough dipped or drizzled in luscious chocolate! This classic cookie dough is seriously irresistible and made safe to eat using applesauce and heat-treated flour. I promise you won’t taste the apple! Just sweet, sweet cookie dough just the way you love 😋 Find the recipe at the link in my bio @sugaredandstirred 💛
Soft-baked Peanut Butter Cookie Bars loaded with chocolate chips and nutty, sweet spelt flour! ✨ These irresistibly moist cookie bars are made with olive oil and a bit of low GI coconut sugar (plus brown sugar!). Find them at the link in my bio 💛
🍋✨NEW✨🍋 Lemon Ginger Cupcakes have hit the blog! Make them mini or standard size - whatever you do, you’ll LOVE these! Soft, springy cake flavored with fresh lemon & fresh ginger. All topped with an easy lemon ginger buttercream. Find the recipe at the link in my bio 💖
Blueberry Thyme Collagen Muffins made with @ancientnutrition ‘s new Multi Collagen Protein!! 🫐😋 [ad] The new formula, now with fermented collagen, has the power of 5 collagen types! Plus both vitamin C and probiotics ✨ Mix the unflavored powder into these muffins as a tasty way to get more collagen. YUM. Check out the link in my bio to shop the @ancientnutrition Multi Collagen Protein or head to your local @target ❤️ Find the recipe for these amazing healthier muffins below!
Mini Banana Cupcakes are perfect for the upcoming Easter weekend! 🌸 Topped with a dark chocolate frosting, these two-bite cupcakes will be loved by all ☺️ Find them at the link in my bio!
Salted Caramel Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies will always be one of my favorites! A soft, vegan-friendly cookie made with a silky, chewy caramel ✨ Have you made these?? They’re a reader favorite, and I’ve loved seeing your bakes! 🥰❤️

Top Recipes

  • S'mores Chocolate Chip Cookies (dairy-free)
  • Vegan Classic Brownies
  • Brownie Sandwich Cookies with Peanut Butter Frosting (dairy-free)
  • Peanut Butter Stuffed Chocolate Cookies (dairy-free)
  • Salted Caramel Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies (DF + V)

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