Real Chocolate Brownies

Working on this recipe helped us discover some extra super powers in some of our favorite superfoods. It turns out that chia seeds are not only packed with protein and extraordinary nutrients. They also act as an amazing egg replacer for vegan baking. And, maca, one of our favorite energy boosting superfoods, imparts a delicate caramel flavor that enhances the taste of these brownies perfectly.

And then there’s cacao. Need we say more? The original form of chocolate in it’s purest form is the best place to start when wanting to make truly delicious chocolate brownies.

Both cacao and maca can be powerful stimulants. We usually include a warning that raw cacao recipes may interfere with your sleep if eaten too late in the day. Personally, we haven’t experienced this effect from these brownies. It may be because they are cooked. The stimulating properties of these raw superfoods may be lost or reduced in the cooking process. As always, pay attention to what your body tells you and take good care of it.

Ingredients:

(use organic whenever possible)

2/3 cup virgin unrefined coconut oil (melted and cooled)

1/2 teaspoon chia seeds

2 tablespoons water

2/3 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup rice syrup

1/3 cup raw cacao powder

1 tablespoon maca powder

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup millet or amaranth flour

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup water

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Melt coconut oil on low heat. It melts quickly so pay attention and remove from heat as soon as it’s melted.
3. Grind the chia seeds in a clean coffee or spice grinder.
4. Combine chia seed powder and 2 tablespoons of water in a large mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
5. Add melted oil, sweeteners, cacao powder and maca powder to the bowl. Combine well using a whisk.
6. Grind oats into a flour using a Vita-Mix blender or use pre-made oat flour. Do the same for millet. (Amaranth can not be home-ground so for this one just get the pre-made flour).
7. Add flours, baking soda and water to the bowl and stir well. You’ll want to switch to a wooden spoon for this part as it will be thick.
8. Pour into a well oiled 9 x 13 brownie pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 35-45 minutes. Check with a toothpick or knife to make sure they’re done.

Makes a 9x13” pan of brownies.