Description

These Pumpkin Workout Brownies are a healthier take on the classic treat, combining pumpkin puree, almond butter, and cocoa powder for a fudgy, nutrient-packed snack. Perfect for those seeking a guilt-free indulgence, these brownies are naturally sweetened, high in protein, and enriched with warm spices, making them an ideal post-workout or anytime snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
2/3 cup almond butter (or allergy-friendly substitute like sunbutter or pumpkin seed butter)
1/3 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened; can use a combination of regular and Dutch)
1/4 cup sugar
3 tbsp chocolate protein powder or additional cocoa powder
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Warm Almond Butter: Gently warm the almond butter until it becomes easily stir-able, ensuring it mixes smoothly with other ingredients.
Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, warmed almond butter, cocoa powder, sugar, protein powder (or extra cocoa), vanilla extract, salt, and pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until the batter is completely smooth and consistent.
Spread Batter: Pour and spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
Bake: Place the pan on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. For an extra fudgy texture, bake for 20 minutes. The brownies will appear slightly undercooked upon removal.
Cool and Chill: Allow the brownies to cool at room temperature. Then, loosely cover the pan with a paper towel and refrigerate overnight. This chilling step firms them up while maintaining their fudgy texture and enhancing sweetness.
Frost and Store: Frost the brownies as desired before serving. Store leftovers refrigerated for 2-3 days or cut into portions and freeze for up to one month. These brownies can be enjoyed straight from the freezer if preferred.

Notes

For allergy-friendly variations, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter.
You may use regular unsweetened cocoa powder or a mix of regular and Dutch-processed cocoa for different flavor profiles.
These brownies are more suited as a healthy snack rather than a traditional bake sale dessert.
Refrigeration overnight significantly improves the brownie texture and sweetness.
Consume within 2-3 days refrigerated or freeze for longer storage up to one month.
Ready to eat straight from the freezer for convenience.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: healthy brownies, pumpkin brownies, protein brownies, gluten free dessert, fudgy brownies, workout snacks, nutritious desserts