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Double Chocolate Chip Butternut Squash Brownies

February 14, 2019 by Caitlin Monson 4 Comments

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Rich, fudgy and so decadent too! These easy brownies are loaded with chocolate and no one will ever guess they’re made with butternut squash too!

Healthy butternut squash brownies are the perfect treat for fall! They're refined sugar free, loaded with chocolate and easily made gluten free too!

I feel like everyone has that one go-to brownie recipe that they swear are the best brownies you will ever taste in your entire life. And loves…this is mine! I’ll be completely honest, when I first made them however long ago that was, I was VERY skeptical about using butternut squash. BUT. DAMN! (Can I say that on here?!) Because hot damn was it a game changer! The squash makes these double chocolate chip butternut squash brownies sooo fudgy with the best texture and you can’t even taste the squash at all! All I’m saying is that whenever I bring them to a party/gathering I get countless of requests for the recipe! (Which is followed by a lot of “what?!” and “no way” when I tell them there’s actually squash in there. 😉 )

Ingredients

For starters there’s NO butter, NO oil and NO refined sugar in these babies what-so-ever! Just simple, good for you ingredients that most of you already have in your kitchen right now.

  • Mashed butternut squash: Gives your brownies THE BEST fudgy texture and adds a little sweetness too. I usually use fresh butternut and “mash” it myself with a food processor but you can also use precut squash or even canned squash instead too!
  • Eggs: Binds your brownies together.
  • Vanilla: Helps to mellow out all the falvors.
  • Coconut sugar: Adds sweetness without adding any refined sugar. (You can replace it with regular brown or white sugar too if you prefer.)
  • Flour: I used regular all purpose flour for this recipe but you can also replace it with gluten free flour too.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: Makes your brownies soo rich and chocolatey!
  • Baking soda: Helps to make your brownies SUPER thick while still having a fudgy texture.
  • Salt: Counter balances the sweetness of the brownies.
  • Chocolate chips: I love using half milk chocolate and half semi-sweet chocolate for this recipe but you can use any type of chocolate chips you’d like. (For a dairy free version, just use dairy free chocolate/chips instead.)
These decadent brownies are made healthier by adding a full serving of butternut squash and there's no oil and no butter in them too! They're the best healthy-ish sweet treat!

How do I mash butternut squash?

I think most people get intimidated whenever they hear “mashed butternut squash”, because they think it involves some big intensive process. BUT it’s actually so simple to make! Here are a few easy steps on how I “mash” mine below.

  1. First, cut the squash in half and scoop out the insides. Then cut each half into 1/2 inch slices and trim the skin off each slice. Cut the slices into small 1 inch cubes.
  2. Place a large pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil.
  3. Once the water starts boiling, pour your squash cubes into the pot and cover it with a lid. Immediately start a timer for 10 minutes. When the time is up, test your squash to see if it’s done. (It might take a few more minutes depending on the size of your cubes.)
    • To test the squash: Take a sharp knife and pierce one of the cubes. The knife should go right through the squash without any resistance. If it’s still hard in the middle, continue boiling for 2-3 minutes or until the squash can be pierced through easily.
  4. Drain and transfer the cooked squash to a food processor and blend until it’s smooth!

Note: You can also use pre-cut butternut squash or even canned (already mashed) butternut squash too!

A fast and easy brownie recipe and made with better for you ingredients! They're thick, fudgy and always a crowd favorite!

What can I do with my leftover mashed butternut squash?

Chances are if you’re a fresh butternut squash then you’re going to have some puree left over. But instead of just throwing it away here are a few simple ideas for how to use it.

  • Make more brownies! I almost always have enough squash to make 1-2 more batches of these brownies. Which usually ends up happening because we go through them so fast! 😉
  • Serve the puree as a side dish by topping it with some butter or maple syrup
  • Freeze it in an ice cube tray and use the frozen squash cubes in your smoothies
  • Add it to your pasta sauces for a little sweet and savory action (and added nutrition!)
Simple, easy and good for you too! You just can't beat these double chocolate chip brownies and no one will ever guess they're loaded with veggies too!

Tips for make butternut squash brownies

  • One HUGE tip I have for any brownie recipe is DO NOT WHISK the batter! Use a large mixing spoon or spatula instead. (When you use a whisk you actually create little air pockets in the batter which creates little dimples on the tops of your brownies. You can also add too much air and cause the brownies to “deflate” after pulling them out of the oven to cool.)
  • Let the butternut squash puree cool completely before adding it to your batter. I usually like to puree the squash the night before I plan to make these brownies. It also cuts back on prep time too!
  • To store the brownies: Place them in a sealed container and store them in the fridge. They should stay good for up to 1 week.
More recipes like this:
  • Banana Bread Brownies
  • Gluten Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies
  • Cream Cheese Swirled Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
  • Spooky Halloween Monster Cookies
  • Chocolate Chunk Almond Butter Cookies

[Made one of my recipes? Make sure to tag my social media @kalefornia_kravings – I love seeing what you create!]

Healthy butternut squash brownies are the perfect treat for fall! They're refined sugar free, loaded with chocolate and easily made gluten free too!
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5 from 2 votes

Double Chocolate Chip Butternut Squash Brownies

Rich, fudgy and so decadent too! These easy brownies are loaded with chocolate, made with better for you ingredients and are always a crowd favorite! (Plus you can't even taste the butternut squash!)
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Total Time40 mins
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Healthy, Refined Sugar Free
Keyword: brownies, butter free, butternut squash, butternut squash puree, chocolate chips, dairy free, dessert, easy, healthy, oil free
Servings: 9 large pieces
Author: Caitlin Monson

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pureed butternut squash
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 3/4 cup coconut sugar
  • 2/3 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips, plus more for the top (semi sweet or milk)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper.
  • Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the squash puree, eggs, vanilla and coconut sugar with a large spoon. Add the dry ingredients and mix again. Stir in your chocolate chips.
  • Pour the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
  • Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before pulling them out to cut.

Notes

How to make mashed butternut squash:
  • Peel and cut squash into 1 inch cubes. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Once it starts to boil, add the squash and immediately start a timer for 10 minutes. Test to see if the squash is done. (I usually poke mine with a knife and if it can go through easily then they’re done. If they’re not done, continuing boiling them for 2-3 minutes.) Transfer squash to a food processor and blend until smooth.
-Always use a large spoon to mix these brownies!
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Filed Under: Dessert Tagged With: brownies, butternut squash, butternut squash puree, chocolate, dessert, easy, healthy, no butter, oil free, refined sugar free

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Brooke

    December 4, 2020 at 8:20 pm

    I was a little skeptical but they’re great! Definitely recommend. I used acorn squash we had roasted yesterday and just mixed it well instead of using a food processor.

    Reply
    • Caitlin Monson

      December 4, 2020 at 8:39 pm

      First, I’m sooo glad you liked them! And second, using acorn squash was genius! I’ll definitely need to try that next time. 🙂

      Reply
  2. Haleigh Coleman

    February 6, 2021 at 9:39 pm

    Wow! I never leave comments, but I made these tonight and they turned out amazing! I used half organic cane sugar and half monk fruit sugar. My kids loved them and I can’t wait to make them again for friends and family.

    Reply
    • Caitlin Monson

      February 10, 2021 at 8:58 am

      Hi Haleigh! I’m so happy to hear that! 🙂 This is my all time favorite brownie recipe and we make it all the time. I hope your friends and family love it too!

      Reply

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Meet Caitlin

Hey there!

I’m Caitlin and I’m here to simplify California cuisine! I’m just your every day Cali girl with a huge passion for cooking and sharing simple healthy eats with a few sweet treats.

Welcome to my kitchen!

Recent Posts

  • Crispy Chicken Carnitas Tacos with Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce
  • Easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars
  • Smoked Salmon Sushi Roll Ups with Citrus Soy Sauce
  • Winter Fruit Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
  • Easy Baked Feta Pasta

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CRISPY CHICKEN CARNITAS TACOS with AVOCADO CILANTR CRISPY CHICKEN CARNITAS TACOS with AVOCADO CILANTRO LIME SAUCE!🤗 Oo baby Taco Tuesday never looked so good!
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I’ll be honest, most days I’m a soft taco kind of girl through & through. But these babies definitely have me singing a different tune! They’re easy to make, baked instead of fried & are loaded with the best citrus marinated chicken too!🤗 (And let’s not forget about that sauce because holy moly - it’s a winner!😉) 
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Hope you’re all having a terrific Tuesday loves!😊💕
.
Chicken Carnitas Tacos🌮
1 lb. chicken thighs (boneless & skinless)
2 oranges, juiced
1 lime, juiced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, deseeded & finely chopped
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp oregano
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
Corn tortillas
Red onion, chopped
Cheese
Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce: Blend together 1 avocado + 1/4 cup cilantro + 2 garlic cloves + 2 Tbsp lime juice + 1/4 tsp salt
.
1. Combine your marinade ingredients & pour them to a plastic bag with your chicken thighs. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. Then place your chicken in a baking dish & bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Shred the chicken once it’s done.
2. Next, place your tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper & spray them with avocado oil. Bake the tortillas at 400 degrees for 2 minutes. Then take them out of the oven & layer one side with cheese, shredded chicken & red onion. Fold the other side over the top & bake your tacos for 10-12 more minutes (or until crispy).
3. Serve immediately with your sauce & favorite toppings!
Introducing these easy CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CRU Introducing these easy CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CRUNCH BARS for National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day!😍 [Ad]
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Can you think of a more iconic duo than chocolate & pb?? Because I sure as heck can’t!😉 And these tasty treats are just another reason why I’m convinced that it’s the best combo of all time! They’re super crunchy, slightly sweet & loaded with so much chocolate peanut buttery goodness too!🙌🏻 (Side note: If you’ve never been to the nut butter section at @sprouts then you definitely need to loves! They always have my favorite peanut butter in stock & I love checking out all the fun new nut butters they have too!😍)
.
Hope you’re all having the best Monday!😊💕
(Full recipe & tips are on my website. Link in bio⬆️)
.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars🍫🥜
3 cups rice cereal (use gluten free if needed)
3/4 cup + 2 Tbsp peanut butter
2-4 Tbsp honey (depending on how sweet you want them)
Chocolate layer: 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips + 2 Tbsp peanut butter
.
1. Line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper & set it aside. Then mix your peanut butter & honey together & pour it over your rice cereal. Mix the two together until fully combined & press your rice crispies into your prepared pan.
2. Next, heat your chocolate chips & 2 Tbsp of pb together in the microwave at 30 second intervals until completely melted. Then pour it over your cereal layer. 
3. Place the pan in the fridge until the chocolate has set. Cut & serve immediately!
SMOKED SALMON SUSHI ROLL UPS with CITRUS SOY SAUCE SMOKED SALMON SUSHI ROLL UPS with CITRUS SOY SAUCE!🤗 Excuse me while I devour this entire plate...🤤 [sponsored]
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I’ve been craving sushi like no other lately & these fun little bites 100% satisfied that need!😉 They’re bright & creamy, full of flavor & made with all fresh ingredients too! The key? Using @kvaroyarctic smoked salmon!😍 (Seriously loves, I’m so impressed with this company & their quality of salmon. It always tastes so fresh & is so good for your heart health too!)
Make sure to check out their products at your local @wholefoods or @fultonfishmarket & whip up these bites ASAP!🤗
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Hope you’re all having a great Thursday!😊💕
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Smoked Salmon Sushi Roll Ups🍣
8oz. smoked salmon
1/2 cup whipped cream cheese
2 Tbsp green onion, chopped
2 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp lemon juice
1/3 of a cucumber, sliced into thin strips
1/2 an avocado, sliced into thin strips
1 Tbsp EBTB seasoning
.
Lemon-Soy Sauce: 2 Tbsp soy sauce + 2 Tbsp lemon juice + 1 Tbsp water + 1 Tbsp mirin + 1 Tbsp sliced green onion
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1. Place a piece of plastic wrap on the counter & sprinkle it with your EBTB seasoning. Then layer your smoked salmon over the seasoning to form a small rectangle.
2. Next mix your cream cheese, green onion, lemon juice & zest together & spread it over your smoked salmon.
3. Place your avocado & cucumber strips in the center of the rectangle & use your plastic wrap to help you roll it up.
4. Place your salmon roll in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Slice & serve it with your soy sauce!
Fresh WINTER FRUIT SALAD with ORANGE POPPY SEED DR Fresh WINTER FRUIT SALAD with ORANGE POPPY SEED DRESSING! Simple, easy & just what I’m craving today!🤗 [Ad]
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Anyone else been having a moment with citrus lately or is that just me?!🙋🏼‍♀️ Also is anyone else completely baffled by all the different types of citrus we have now too??🤯 I was walking around @sprouts the other day & must have seen at least 10 different varieties! (Which is probably why I love shopping there during citrus season tbh.😉) Like these vintage heirloom navel oranges - they’re a little sweeter & easier to peel than most oranges which makes them perfect for snacking or adding to salads! And if you’re going to have a fruit salad - make this one! It’s sweet, a little tart, so easy & so refreshing too!🤗
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Hope you’re all having a great Wednesday loves!😊💕
(Full recipe & tips are on my website. Link in bio⬆️)
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Winter Fruit Salad🍊
Oranges, peeled & chopped
Strawberries, halved
Kiwis, peeled & quartered
Blueberries
Pomegranate seeds
Orange Poppy Seed Dressing: 1/4 cup orange juice + 1 1/2 tsp honey + 1/2 tsp poppy seeds
.
1. Add all of your fruit to a bowl & drizzle your dressing over the top. Toss your salad until everything is coated.
2. Keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
#lovesprouts #sproutspartner
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