INTRODUCTION

Beetroot brownies are a unique twist on the classic dessert. They combine the delicious taste of chocolate with the health benefits of beetroot. This recipe from Waitrose & Partners shows how you can enjoy a tasty treat that is also packed with nutrients. These brownies are moist, rich, and offer a delightful earthy flavor. If you want a dessert that is both indulgent and healthy, then these beetroot brownies are a great choice!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, beetroot adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the brownies, making them rich and fudgy. This means you can satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling guilty. Second, the bright color of the beetroot makes the brownies a feast for the eyes. They look delightful on any dessert table. Finally, they are simple to make with easy ingredients. Whether you are a baking novice or an expert, you can whip up these tasty treats with little effort.

HOW TO MAKE Beetroot Brownies

Making beetroot brownies is a fun and rewarding process. You will need to gather some simple ingredients and follow a few easy steps. By the end, you will have delicious brownies to share or enjoy all by yourself.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment:

Oven
Mixing bowls
Baking tray
Whisk
Grater (for fresh beetroot)
Spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper (optional)

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Here is a list of the ingredients you will need to make beetroot brownies:

200g cooked and grated beetroot
100g dark chocolate (chopped)
100g unsalted butter (cubed)
3 large eggs
150g soft brown sugar
100g plain flour
30g cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
A pinch of salt

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the brownies bake evenly.
Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray (approximately 20cm x 20cm) with parchment paper. This helps to prevent the brownies from sticking.
Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and cubed butter. You can melt them together in a microwave or over a bowl of hot water. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
Mix Eggs and Sugar: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and soft brown sugar until they become light and fluffy.
Combine Mixtures: Once the chocolate and butter mixture has cooled, pour it into the egg mixture. Stir gently until everything is combined.
Add Beetroot: Next, add the grated beetroot into the mixture. Mix well until the beet is evenly distributed.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This helps to aerate the flour and ensure there are no lumps.
Bring It All Together: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix. It should be combined just enough to create a smooth batter.
Pour into the Baking Tray: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking tray. Spread it evenly using a spatula.
Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You can check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, take the brownies out of the oven and let them cool in the tray for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

HOW TO SERVE Beetroot Brownies

Beetroot brownies can be served in various ways. You can cut them into squares or bars and serve them plain. For an extra treat, dust them with icing sugar or serve them with a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some fresh berries.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Beetroot Brownies

Once your brownies are cool, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just defrost them at room temperature before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are a few fun serving ideas for your beetroot brownies:

Top with cream cheese frosting for a sweeter option.
Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Pair with a scoop of berry sorbet for a refreshing contrast.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to get creative with your beetroot brownies! Here are some variations you might enjoy:

Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for a crunchy texture.
Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and butter substitutes for a vegan option.
Fruit: Toss in some chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra sweetness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about beetroot brownies:

Can I use fresh beetroot instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh beetroot. Just peel and cook it until tender, then grate it.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour.
What can I replace the butter with?
You can use coconut oil or any plant-based butter as a substitute for regular butter.
How long do they take to bake?
Bake the brownies for about 25-30 minutes, but check for doneness with a toothpick.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Beetroot Brownies

If you want to save time, you can make the batter ahead of time. Simply mix everything up to the point of pouring into the baking tray. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it overnight. When you are ready, take it out, allow it to come to room temperature, and bake as directed. This way, you can quickly have fresh beetroot brownies whenever you want!