The Best Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies – Fudgy & Easy to Make

Who says you need eggs, dairy, or gluten to make the perfect brownie? These Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies are proof that you can have it all—rich, fudgy, and irresistibly chocolatey without compromising on dietary needs. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant, vegan, or just looking for a healthier dessert, this recipe delivers a decadent treat that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Made with gluten-free flour, dairy-free chocolate, and a flax egg, these brownies boast the perfect balance of gooey texture and deep cocoa flavor. Plus, they require only one bowl and simple pantry staples, making them a go-to recipe for any chocolate lover.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips and delicious variations. So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s bake the most delicious gluten-free vegan brownies ever! 🍫✨

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies

If you’re looking for the ultimate gluten-free vegan brownie recipe, you’re in for a treat! These brownies check all the boxes—they’re rich, fudgy, easy to make, and made with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant, dairy-free, or simply want a healthier twist on a classic dessert, this recipe delivers indulgence without compromise. Let’s dive into what makes these brownies so special!

✔ Fudgy & Moist Texture – No dry or crumbly brownies here! These are rich and gooey.

One of the biggest struggles with gluten-free and vegan baking is getting the right texture. Many traditional recipes rely on eggs and butter to achieve that chewy, gooey consistency, but this recipe uses plant-based alternatives that keep the brownies soft and fudgy.

Flax or chia eggs provide structure and moisture without drying out the batter.
Coconut oil or almond butter adds richness for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Dairy-free chocolate chips contribute extra gooeyness when slightly melted into the batter.

The result? Perfectly chewy, chocolatey brownies that stay moist for days!

✔ Completely Dairy-Free & Egg-Free – Made without butter, milk, or eggs.

Many brownie recipes call for butter, eggs, and milk, but these gluten-free vegan brownies achieve the same indulgent taste and texture without any animal-based ingredients.

Instead, we use simple plant-based swaps:

Flax egg (a blend of flaxseed meal and water) acts as a natural binder.
Dairy-free chocolate and cocoa powder give these brownies their deep, rich chocolate flavor.
Coconut oil or applesauce keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out.

Whether you have dietary restrictions or are simply looking for a plant-based treat, these brownies deliver the same chocolatey satisfaction without compromise.

✔ Gluten-Free & Wholesome Ingredients – Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

A great gluten-free brownie shouldn’t feel like a compromise. These brownies are made with nutrient-rich, naturally gluten-free flours that offer both taste and texture.

Some gluten-free flour options you can use:

Almond flour – Adds a nutty flavor and natural moisture.
Oat flour – Provides a soft, chewy consistency and extra fiber.
Gluten-free all-purpose flour – A balanced option for a classic brownie texture.

By using wholesome, naturally gluten-free ingredients, these brownies are not only safe for those with gluten sensitivities but also packed with nutrients.

✔ One-Bowl & Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated steps to make these brownies. This is a one-bowl recipe, meaning less mess and more chocolatey goodness in no time!

Simply mix the wet ingredients, stir in the dry ones, and bake.
The batter comes together in just 10 minutes, making this the perfect quick dessert.
No need for special baking skills—just whisk, pour, and enjoy!

Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe ensures that anyone can whip up delicious homemade brownies without hassle.

These Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies are everything you want in a chocolate treat—decadent, rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, they’re packed with healthier, plant-based ingredients that allow you to indulge guilt-free.

Ready to bake? Let’s get started with the key ingredients that make these brownies so delicious! 🍫✨

Key Ingredients & Substitutes

Creating the perfect gluten-free vegan brownies starts with choosing the right ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role in achieving the rich, fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor without using traditional butter, eggs, or wheat flour. Below, we’ll explore the best ingredient choices and their substitutes, so you can customize your brownies based on your preferences and dietary needs.

🍫 Gluten-Free Flour Options – Almond flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free blend.

Since these brownies are gluten-free, choosing the right flour is essential to ensure the perfect texture—moist, chewy, and not overly dense. Here are the best options:

Almond Flour – Adds a subtle nutty flavor and provides moisture for a soft, fudgy consistency. Since almond flour lacks the binding power of gluten, it works best when combined with another gluten-free flour.
Oat Flour – Made from finely ground oats, this flour offers a mild, slightly sweet taste while adding fiber and a light texture. Ensure it’s certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend – A store-bought mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum, which helps mimic the structure of wheat flour. This is the easiest 1:1 swap for traditional flour.

💡 Substitution Tip: If you don’t have oat or almond flour, a mix of coconut flour and cassava flour can work, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid content since coconut flour absorbs more moisture.

🥥 Natural Sweeteners – Maple syrup, coconut sugar, or date paste.

Instead of refined white sugar, these brownies use natural, unrefined sweeteners that enhance both flavor and texture while keeping the recipe healthier and plant-based.

Maple Syrup – A liquid sweetener that adds a subtle caramel-like flavor while keeping brownies moist.
Coconut Sugar – A lower-glycemic option that tastes similar to brown sugar and gives a deep, rich sweetness.
Date Paste – Made by blending soaked dates with water, this natural sweetener provides fiber and an extra gooey texture.

💡 Substitution Tip: If you prefer a sugar-free version, try monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Just be sure to check the sweetness ratio, as they can be much sweeter than traditional sugars.

🥄 Egg Substitutes – Flax egg, chia egg, or applesauce.

Since eggs provide structure and moisture in traditional brownies, we need plant-based alternatives to achieve the same chewy, fudgy texture.

Flax Egg – Made by mixing ground flaxseed with water, this substitute creates a gel-like consistency that helps bind ingredients together.
Chia Egg – Similar to flax eggs, this mix of chia seeds and water works as a natural thickener. It’s also packed with omega-3s and fiber.
Applesauce – Adds moisture and a touch of natural sweetness while replacing eggs. Perfect for a lighter, oil-free version of brownies.

💡 Substitution Tip: If you prefer a store-bought egg replacer, options like Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer or JUST Egg can also work in this recipe.

🍶 Dairy-Free Chocolate – Use cocoa powder and vegan chocolate chips.

To get that rich, intense chocolate flavor, we use high-quality dairy-free chocolate options:

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – A must-have for deep chocolate flavor. Choose Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother taste or natural cocoa for a slightly acidic, bold flavor.
Vegan Chocolate Chips – Brands like Enjoy Life or Hu Kitchen make dairy-free chocolate chips that melt beautifully into the batter.
Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate – For an extra rich, intense chocolatey experience, melt some dark chocolate into the batter for added gooeyness.

💡 Substitution Tip: If you prefer a lower-fat version, you can use carob powder instead of cocoa powder, though it has a naturally sweeter and milder taste.

Choosing the right gluten-free flour, natural sweeteners, egg replacers, and dairy-free chocolate ensures that these brownies are indulgent, rich, and completely plant-based. Now that you know which ingredients make these brownies amazing, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making them! 🍫✨

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Vegan Brownies

Making gluten-free vegan brownies is surprisingly simple, requiring just one bowl and a handful of wholesome ingredients. By following these easy steps, you’ll achieve perfectly fudgy, rich, and chocolatey brownies every time—without eggs, dairy, or gluten. Let’s dive into the process!

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg – Mix ground flaxseeds with water and let it sit.

A flax egg is a simple plant-based substitute for traditional eggs, helping to bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.

✔ How to Make a Flax Egg: Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
✔ Why It Works: Flaxseeds are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which create a thick, egg-like texture when mixed with water.
✔ Pro Tip: If you don’t have flaxseeds, you can substitute them with chia seeds using the same ratio.

🔹 Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients – Whisk together maple syrup, vanilla, and coconut oil.

The wet ingredients ensure the brownies turn out moist, rich, and naturally sweet without using refined sugar or dairy.

Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness while keeping the brownies soft and chewy.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the depth of chocolate flavor.
Coconut Oil – Provides richness and contributes to a fudgy texture. If you prefer an oil-free version, substitute it with applesauce or nut butter for a slightly different texture.

💡 Pro Tip: To prevent the coconut oil from hardening when mixed with maple syrup, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before combining.

🔹 Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients – Stir in gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.

Now it’s time to create the brownie base by mixing the dry ingredients together.

✔ Gluten-Free Flour – Use almond flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend for the best results.
✔ Cocoa Powder – The key to rich, intense chocolate flavor. Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother taste or natural cocoa powder for a slightly more bitter, bold chocolate kick.
✔ Baking Powder – Helps the brownies rise slightly while keeping them soft and chewy.

💡 Pro Tip: Sift the cocoa powder before adding it to the batter to prevent lumps and ensure even mixing.

🔹 Step 4: Bake & Cool – Pour the batter into a pan, bake, and let it cool for the perfect texture.

Now that the batter is ready, it’s time to bake these decadent, gluten-free vegan brownies to perfection.

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Pour & Spread: Transfer the brownie batter to the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are firm and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial for getting clean, fudgy slices rather than crumbly ones.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want extra gooey brownies, slightly underbake them by 2-3 minutes and let them set while cooling.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create rich, fudgy, and indulgent vegan brownies that are gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free—without sacrificing taste or texture. Now, all that’s left is to slice, serve, and enjoy! 🍫✨

Tips & Variations for the Perfect Brownies

Customizing your gluten-free vegan brownies allows you to tweak the flavor, texture, and nutritional profile to your preference. Whether you need a nut-free, oil-free, extra fudgy, or high-protein version, these tips will help you get the perfect batch every time.

💡 Make It Nut-Free – Use oat flour instead of almond flour.

If you or someone in your household has a nut allergy, you can easily make these brownies nut-free by swapping almond flour for oat flour.

Why Oat Flour? – It has a mild flavor, blends well, and adds a soft, chewy texture.
How to Use It: Replace almond flour with an equal amount of finely ground certified gluten-free oat flour. You can also make your own by blending rolled oats into a fine powder.
Alternative: A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend works well too, but be sure to check if it contains xanthan gum, which may slightly alter the texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Since oat flour absorbs more moisture than almond flour, you may need to add 1-2 extra tablespoons of plant-based milk to keep the brownies soft and fudgy.

💡 Oil-Free Option – Replace coconut oil with applesauce.

For a lighter, oil-free version of these brownies, swap the coconut oil for unsweetened applesauce.

Why Applesauce? – It acts as a natural fat replacer, keeping the brownies moist without adding extra oil.
How to Use It: Replace the ½ cup of coconut oil with ½ cup of applesauce for a lower-fat alternative.
Texture Difference: The brownies will be slightly more cake-like rather than fudgy, but still deliciously rich.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want to retain some of the fudginess while reducing fat, use half applesauce and half nut butter (like almond or cashew butter).

💡 Extra Fudgy Brownies – Add more dairy-free chocolate chips and a touch of almond butter.

If you love super fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth brownies, there are a few simple tricks to make them even more decadent.

Extra Chocolate Chips – Stir in ½ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips into the batter before baking for gooey chocolate pockets.
Almond Butter Boost – Add 2 tablespoons of creamy almond butter to make the brownies even richer and denser.
Reduce Baking Time – Bake for 2-3 minutes less than the recommended time for a gooier texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to allow them to set properly and become even fudgier.

💡 Want a Protein Boost? – Mix in some plant-based protein powder.

If you’re looking to make these brownies more protein-packed—whether for post-workout fuel or a more satisfying treat—you can easily incorporate plant-based protein powder.

Best Protein Powders for Brownies: Choose a chocolate or unflavored plant-based protein powder made from pea, brown rice, or hemp protein.
How to Add It: Replace ¼ cup of flour with ¼ cup of protein powder to maintain the right texture.
Texture Tip: Since protein powder absorbs moisture, add an extra tablespoon of plant-based milk if the batter feels too thick.

💡 Pro Tip: If using pea protein, balance the flavor with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract or maple syrup to keep the brownies sweet and rich.

These gluten-free vegan brownies are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them based on your dietary needs and taste preferences. Whether you want a nut-free, oil-free, extra fudgy, or high-protein version, these variations will help you achieve the perfect brownie every time.

👉 Which variation are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments below! 🍫😊

You find out other vegan dessert recipes:

FAQs About Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies

Got questions about making the best gluten-free vegan brownies? Here are some common troubleshooting tips and storage guidelines to ensure your brownies turn out fudgy, rich, and delicious every time!

❓ Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour if you don’t need the brownies to be gluten-free. However, keep in mind:

Not Gluten-Free: If you swap out the gluten-free flour, your brownies will no longer be suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Texture Differences: Gluten-free flours, such as almond flour or oat flour, have a different structure than wheat flour. Using regular flour might result in a denser or slightly chewier texture.
How to Swap: Replace gluten-free flour with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, but be sure to avoid overmixing to prevent a tough texture.

💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer a richer, more indulgent brownie, try using a mix of regular flour and finely ground almond flour for a softer, more tender bite.

❓ How do I store these brownies?

To keep your gluten-free vegan brownies fresh and fudgy, proper storage is key.

Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
Refrigeration: If you live in a warmer climate or want to extend freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. This also makes them extra dense and fudgy.
Layering Tip: If stacking brownies in a container, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

💡 Pro Tip: For the ultimate fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, warm a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying! 🍫

❓ Can I freeze vegan brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or keeping a stash of chocolatey goodness on hand.

How to Freeze:

Let the brownies cool completely before freezing.
Slice them into individual squares for easy serving.
Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or store in a zip-top freezer bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Thaw:

Let brownies sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before eating.
For a quick thaw, microwave for 20-30 seconds.
If you like chewy, cold brownies, enjoy them straight from the fridge!

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re meal prepping, freeze brownies in single-serving portions so you can grab one whenever you need a sweet treat.

❓ Why are my brownies too dry?

If your gluten-free vegan brownies turned out dry or crumbly, there are a few possible reasons—and easy fixes!

Too Much Flour:

Gluten-free flours absorb more moisture, so even a slight over-measurement can lead to dry brownies.
Solution: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour correctly instead of scooping directly from the bag.

Overbaking:

Since gluten-free brownies don’t firm up as much in the oven, they might look slightly underbaked when they’re actually done.
Solution: Take them out of the oven when the center is just set and a toothpick inserted has a few moist crumbs, rather than coming out completely clean.

Not Enough Moisture:

Ingredients like flax eggs, coconut oil, applesauce, or nut butter add moisture. If left out or reduced, the brownies may become too dry.
Solution: Add a splash of plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy) to the batter if it looks too thick before baking.

💡 Pro Tip: If your brownies are already baked and seem too dry, don’t worry! Serve them with a dairy-free ice cream scoop, drizzle of maple syrup, or warm chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

These FAQs should help you troubleshoot common issues and ensure that your gluten-free vegan brownies turn out perfectly fudgy, moist, and delicious every time.

The Best Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies – Fudgy, Rich & Easy to Make