Why You’ll Love this Gluten-Free Walnut Brownies Recipe
When you take a bite of these gluten-free walnut brownies, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite in my kitchen. The rich, fudgy texture melts in your mouth, making each bite a heavenly experience.
I love how the chocolate flavor shines through, perfectly complemented by the crunch of toasted walnuts. Plus, these brownies are easy to whip up—no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
I can satisfy my sweet tooth without worrying about gluten, which makes them perfect for sharing with friends who’ve dietary restrictions. They’re a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, and I often find myself sneaking a piece or two while they cool.
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked and want to make them again and again!
Ingredients of Gluten-Free Walnut Brownies
When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference, especially in a recipe as delicious as gluten-free walnut brownies. You’ll love how simple and straightforward these ingredients are, making it easy to whip up a batch even on a busy day.
The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts is a match made in dessert heaven, and trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this delight!
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for your gluten-free walnut brownies:
- 6 tablespoons of butter
- 12 ounces of chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
- 1/3 cup of cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts
Now, let’s talk about a couple of things regarding the ingredients. First off, the quality of your chocolate chips can really elevate these brownies. Go for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, depending on your taste preference—both work beautifully.
And if you have a nut allergy or simply prefer a nut-free version, feel free to leave out the walnuts. You can even substitute them with another mix-in, like chocolate chunks or dried fruit, if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Make Gluten-Free Walnut Brownies
Making gluten-free walnut brownies is a delightful journey that starts with melting together 6 tablespoons of butter and 12 ounces of chocolate chips.
Now, if you’re like me and not quite a master chef yet, don’t sweat it! You can just pop those two ingredients into a microwave-safe bowl. Set your microwave for 30 to 40 seconds, give it a stir, and repeat until you have a smooth, luscious mixture. But if you’re feeling fancy and want to break out the double boiler, go for it. Just be careful not to burn the chocolate—trust me, it’s a sad day when that happens.
Once your butter and chocolate are all melted and happy together, stir in 3/4 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. It’s at this point that your kitchen starts to smell heavenly.
Add in 3 eggs one at a time, whisking them in until they’re fully combined. Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder—these two are the secret to keeping our brownies gluten-free while still giving them that rich chocolate flavor.
After that, mix those dry ingredients into your chocolate mixture. This is where you get a bit of a workout because you’ll want to stir a little longer than you’d with regular brownies. When the batter starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl, fold in 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts. If you’re feeling extra gourmet, consider toasting the walnuts beforehand for an even more intense flavor.
Now that your brownie batter is ready, spread it into a prepared baking dish—either an 8×8, 9×9, or 7×11 inch pan works, just be sure to coat it with non-stick spray.
Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, but let’s be honest, a little gooeyness is totally acceptable.
Once they’re done baking, be patient and let them cool completely before cutting into squares. This is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth it. Your tastebuds will thank you later!
Gluten-Free Walnut Brownies Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to customize your gluten-free walnut brownies, there are plenty of delicious substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For starters, try swapping out the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative if you want a vegan version. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate; dark chocolate adds richness, while semi-sweet gives a classic taste.
If you’re in the mood for something fruity, toss in some dried cherries or raspberries alongside the walnuts.
Want a nut-free option? Substitute sunflower seed butter for a unique twist.
Finally, if you’re a fan of spices, a dash of cinnamon or even espresso powder can elevate the flavor profile.
Happy baking!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Walnut Brownies
While enjoying my gluten-free walnut brownies, I’ve found that the right accompaniments can elevate the entire dessert experience.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs perfectly, adding a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate. For a hint of freshness, I love serving these brownies with fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries—they add a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness.
A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can also take these brownies to the next level. If you want a coffee break vibe, serve them alongside a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a rich mocha.
Each of these pairs enhances the brownies’ decadent flavor, creating a delightful treat that’s hard to resist!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing gluten-free walnut brownies with delicious accompaniments is just the beginning of enhancing your dessert experience.
For extra indulgence, consider drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over the brownies before serving. If you enjoy a hint of spice, a dash of cinnamon or espresso powder can elevate the flavor profile.
When storing leftovers, keep them in an airtight container to maintain their fudgy texture. I’ve found that letting the brownies sit overnight deepens their flavor, making them even more decadent.
If you want to experiment, try swapping out the walnuts for pecans or adding a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist.
Enjoy these brownies warm with a scoop of ice cream for a truly unforgettable treat!