Chocolate Brownies

Makes 6 to 8 brownies

Everyone has a different opinion about brownies: some like them cakey, and some like them moist. These fall into the latter category. You may try baking them a little longer for a cakier result.

ingredients

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cups unsweetened applesauce
2 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons ground flaxseed
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup nondairy semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

directions

1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. With canola oil, grease an 8 x 8-inch baking pan.
2
In a medium-size bowl, stir together the sugar, applesauce, and 2 tablespoons water.
3
In a small bowl or food processor, combine the ground flaxseed with the 1/2 cup water. Add this to the applesauce mixture, along with the vanilla, and stir to combine.
4
In a separate small bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, baking powder, salt, chocolate chips, and nuts, if using. Add to the applesauce mixture, and stir just to combine.
5
Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 40 minutes. The finished product should be moist. Bake longer if you like a cakier result. Remove from the oven and let cool before cutting. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.