Christmas Tree Sweet Potato Brownies with Raspberry Swirl are a festive and nutritious twist on a classic dessert, perfect for holiday celebrations. These delicious brownies incorporate sweet potatoes, which lend a moist and fudgy texture along with a hidden dose of vitamins and minerals. The rich, chocolatey goodness is beautifully adorned with a vibrant raspberry swirl, mimicking the look of a Christmas tree—making them not only tasty but also visually festive.
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, reducing the need for added sugars, while the raspberry swirl introduces a burst of tartness and colour. This dessert is easily made gluten-free and is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal flavours while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. Serve them at holiday gatherings, pack them for school lunches, or share them as a sweet and healthy gift!
Health Benefits:
- Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fibre. Vitamin A is essential for eye health, immune function, and skin health, while fibre promotes healthy digestion.
- Antioxidant Properties: Both sweet potatoes and raspberries are packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants in these ingredients can also promote overall health and well-being.
- Lower Glycemic Index: Sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, making them a great option for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for those managing their blood sugar levels or looking to maintain energy balance.
- Natural Sweetener: Utilizing sweet potatoes reduces the need for additional sweeteners, resulting in a dessert that satisfies cravings without the excess sugar found in traditional brownies. This makes them a healthier alternative that still delivers on taste.
- Healthy Fats: If made with ingredients like nut butter or coconut oil, these brownies can also provide healthy fats, which are essential for hormone production and overall satiety.
- Gluten-Free Options: These brownies can easily be made gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences. This inclusivity allows more people to enjoy a delicious and festive holiday treat.
- Boost of Flavour with Fibre: The addition of raspberries not only enhances the flavour profile with a tangy, fruity note but also adds dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and promotes fullness.
These brownies are not just a delightful and festive dessert; they also pack a nutritional punch. Combining wholesome ingredients rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fibres, these brownies offer a guilt-free way to indulge during the holiday season. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these treats celebrate the season’s flavours while supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Christmas Tree Sweet Potato Brownies with Raspberry Swirl
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Brownies
- 2 med orange sweet potatoes
- ½ cup plant-based milk
- ½ cup apple sauce
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed (linseed)
- ½ cup peanut butter or other nut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup cocoa or cacao powder
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup oat flour see notes
Raspberry swirl
- 1 punnet fresh raspberries (or around 110 grams frozen)
- ½ tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp cornflour
- ½ tsp agar agar powder
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Sweet potato brownies
- Preheat the oven to 180℃ (375℉)
- Boil or microwave the sweet potatoes until soft. Allow to cool, then peel off the skin. Mash with the plant milk.
- Add the mashed sweet potatoes and all other ingredients into a large bowl and mix to combine.
- Transfer the batter to a lined baking dish and spread out evenly with a spatula or spoon.
- Bake in the oven for around 30 minutes. At 28 minutes, pierce the brownies with a toothpick or fork, if it comes out clean, then it is ready.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, remove from the pan and cut into even triangles.
- Sprinkle with the shredded coconut and swirl over the raspberry glaze.
Raspberry Glaze
- In a saucepan add in all the raspberry ingredients,.
- Cook over a low heat, allow the juices to release. Break up with a fork and mix all together.
- Once blended and smooth, allow to cool before moving the raspberry glaze to a pipping bag.
- Sprinkle the brownies with shredded coconut, then pipe the glaze over the brownies in a zigzag pattern to create a decorated Christmas tree effect.
