Lite Brownies
Light and fudgy brownies with a hint of chocolate, made with applesauce for a healthier touch. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings with fewer calories and guilt.
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided ⓘ
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons margarine ⓘ
- 3 egg whites, beaten ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon vanilla ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon chocolate extract
- confectioners sugar for garnish ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large, heavy saucepan, cook 1 cup of chocolate chips, sugar, applesauce, and margarine over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Beat in the beaten egg whites.
- Add the remaining ingredients and 1 cup of chocolate chips, and beat until well combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until set.
- Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack, then garnish with confectioners sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can substitute the margarine with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. To enhance moisture, add a tablespoon of coffee or espresso powder to the batter. If you prefer a denser brownie, reduce the flour slightly. Ensure to mix well after adding the wet ingredients to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these lite brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast. They also pair well with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or fresh berries on top. For a festive touch, dust with confectioners sugar before serving. These brownies are perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside your favorite coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold right from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Brownies contains roughly 168 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 653mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can use whole eggs instead of egg whites, which will give the brownies a richer texture and flavor. However, keep in mind that it may increase the calorie content slightly. If you do, use about 2 large eggs in place of the 3 egg whites.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet with batter, they need more time. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so avoid overbaking.
What can I add to the brownies for extra flavor?
You can add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture. Chocolate chunks or swirls of peanut butter can also enhance the flavor. For a hint of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper, which can elevate the chocolate taste beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).