Sweet Potato Brownies

Section: Indulgent Desserts for Sweet Endings

These easy sweet potato brownies deliver a rich chocolate flavor with a wholesome twist. Mashed sweet potato provides natural sweetness and moisture, while almond butter and coconut oil create a fudgy texture. Sweetened with maple syrup and packed with gooey chocolate chips, these brownies come together in one bowl and bake in under an hour. They are gluten- and dairy-free, with options to make them vegan or nut-free. Perfect for cozy evenings, parties, or after-school treats, these brownies taste indulgent while still offering fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying gooey center.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Sun, 14 Sep 2025 01:08:11 GMT
A stack of brownies with chocolate drizzled on top. Bookmark
A stack of brownies with chocolate drizzled on top. | ioanacooks.com

This indulgent dessert brings together the richness of chocolate with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes for a fudgy treat that feels both comforting and wholesome. The combination of maple syrup, almond butter, and cocoa creates layers of flavor that satisfy chocolate cravings while sneaking in nutrients from a surprising ingredient. These brownies bake up glossy on top with gooey centers and make the perfect sweet ending for gatherings or quiet evenings.

I discovered this recipe while trying to use up a leftover sweet potato and now my daughter proudly requests it for after school treats

Ingredients

  • Mashed cooked sweet potato about two medium: adds natural sweetness moisture and fiber Choose firm smooth skinned potatoes for best flavor
  • Almond butter: provides a chewy fudgy texture Use a creamy variety for a smooth batter
  • Coconut oil melted: keeps the brownies moist opt for cold pressed for cleaner taste
  • Pure maple syrup: balances the cocoa with gentle sweetness choose Grade A for pure flavor
  • Vanilla extract: deepens chocolate richness always pick real extract if possible
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: brings bold chocolate flavor Dutch processed gives darker color while natural cocoa offers fruity notes
  • Almond flour or oat flour: creates a tender crumb while keeping the recipe gluten free make sure flour is fresh
  • Baking powder: allows a slight rise for lighter texture
  • Fine sea salt: sharpens flavors so the chocolate never tastes flat
  • Dark chocolate chips: melt into gooey pockets in every bite choose seventy percent or higher cacao for intensity
  • Melted dark chocolate optional for drizzling: adds extra decadence

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and line an eight by eight inch baking pan with parchment paper This prevents sticking and helps lift brownies out cleanly
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl combine mashed sweet potato almond butter melted coconut oil maple syrup and vanilla Stir until glossy and smooth making sure ingredients are fully blended
Blend in the Dry Ingredients:
Add cocoa powder almond flour baking powder and salt Mix gently until just combined Overmixing will reduce the fudgy texture so stop when no streaks remain
Fold in Chocolate Chips:
Gently stir in the dark chocolate chips ensuring even distribution so every bite has melted chocolate
Spread in the Pan:
Transfer thick batter into prepared pan and smooth surface with a spatula for even baking
Bake to Perfection:
Bake twenty eight to thirty two minutes until edges feel firm but center remains slightly soft This ensures fudgy centers without being underdone
Cool Completely:
Allow brownies to cool fully in pan for cleaner slices and a firm yet gooey texture inside
Finish and Serve:
Drizzle with melted chocolate if desired Slice into squares once cool and serve with friends or save for later indulgence
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A slice of chocolate cake with chocolate drizzled on top. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days For longer freshness refrigerate up to six days For freezing wrap individual pieces and store in a freezer safe bag They thaw overnight or warm quickly in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

For vegan use maple syrup and dairy free chocolate chips For nut free substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini Almond flour can be swapped for oat flour Coconut oil can be replaced with melted butter A scoop of protein powder can be folded in by reducing flour slightly

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing Top with berries for color and freshness Add a swirl of nut butter or sprinkle of sea salt before baking For parties drizzle with white chocolate or dust with cocoa powder for a bakery style touch

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A close up of a chocolate dessert with drizzled chocolate on top. | ioanacooks.com

Chocolate Brownies Around the World

Brownies began in the United States but sweet potato versions are popular in Japan where the root is a common dessert ingredient The use of vegetables in sweets has roots across cultures proving this wholesome twist has long standing global inspiration

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned sweet potato puree?

Yes, canned puree works well as long as it’s unsweetened to maintain the intended flavor and sweetness balance.

→ How can I make the brownies extra fudgy?

Remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft. Chill before slicing for gooey texture.

→ What flour alternatives keep these gluten-free?

Almond flour or oat flour both work well, providing a tender crumb while keeping the brownies gluten-free.

→ Are these suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, swap honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make them fully vegan.

→ Is it possible to customize the flavor profile?

Absolutely. Add spices like cinnamon or espresso powder, fold in nuts, or swirl nut butter for unique variations.

→ How do I store and reheat these brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate for 6 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Easy Sweet Potato Brownies

Fudgy brownies with sweet potato, cocoa, and maple syrup for a wholesome twist on a classic chocolate dessert.

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Time
45 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Desserts

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 12 How Many It Serves (1 pan of brownies (8x8 inch, cut into 12 squares))

Dietary Preferences: Made for Vegetarians, No Gluten, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Base

Ingredient 01 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 2 medium, peeled)
Ingredient 02 1/2 cup almond butter
Ingredient 03 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
Ingredient 04 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
Ingredient 05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

Ingredient 06 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Ingredient 07 1/2 cup almond flour
Ingredient 08 1 teaspoon baking powder
Ingredient 09 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Add-ins

Ingredient 10 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Ingredient 11 Melted dark chocolate, for drizzling (optional)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, almond butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth and glossy.

Step 03

Add cocoa powder, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 04

Stir in dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 06

Bake for 28–32 minutes until edges are set but center remains slightly soft.

Step 07

Allow brownies to cool fully in the pan before slicing into squares.

Step 08

Drizzle with melted dark chocolate if desired, then serve and enjoy.

Extra Tips

  1. Let sweet potatoes cool before mashing for smoother batter.
  2. Check brownies early as ovens vary.
  3. Chill brownies before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  4. Brownies freeze well for up to three months.
  5. For vegan version, use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.
  6. For nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.

Tools You'll Need

  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Tree nuts (almond butter, almond flour)
  • Chocolate (caffeine, cocoa)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 210
  • Total Fat: 12 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 22 grams
  • Protein Amount: 4 grams