Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Brownies

Chocolaty Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Brownies with a healthy twist. When I set out to make these brownies, I wanted to create a brownie that tasted chocolaty and at the same time, had some health benefits. So instead of adding butter, I used seasonal fresh butternut squash. I used the squash as if I would use butter, and the rest was easy.

Butternut squash is a sweet winter squash with a mild nutty taste and has the texture of sweet potato, making it a perfect combination with chocolate. To prepare the squash, I steamed a few pieces of peeled squash. It only takes about 15 minutes. Then I mashed the squash until smooth, just like potatoes.

healthy sweetener for butternut squash brownies…

In this brownie recipe, I used maple syrup as a sweetener. Maple syrup is a much healthier option than refined sugar. For the fats, I used a splash of heart-healthy olive oil.

And, to make the butternut squash brownies extra special, I added a topping made with chocolate chunks. 

Why is this gluten-free brownie recipe healthier? 

First, butternut squash is packed with fiber, Vitamin A and C and is low in calories, only 63 calories per cup, compared to butter which is 1627 calories per cup. Second, I used maple syrup as a sweetener, which is not shy of health benefits such as several essential minerals.

Another ingredient I added is pure cocoa. Cocoa is known for its antioxidant properties. For the remaining ingredients, I used gluten-free flour, eggs, yogurt and good quality gluten-free chocolate.

I created many gluten-free brownie recipes in the past, but this one makes me feel kind of good because it has several ingredients with health benefits.

To summarize, now you can enjoy a deliciously fudgy brownie without feeling guilty. How wonderful is that? I prefer to eat brownies slightly warm while the chocolate is still melting. So good! Enjoy!