
Fudgy sweet potato brownies are my answer when I crave chocolate but want something better for my family. This naturally sweet treat gets its signature texture from real sweet potato plus healthy fats and cocoa powder. You would never guess they are gluten free and refined sugar free.
I baked a batch for my kids one afternoon using a leftover sweet potato and they disappeared within minutes. No one could believe there were vegetables hiding inside.
Ingredients
- Sweet potato purée: gives these brownies moisture and a fudgy bite Start with a large orange sweet potato and look for smooth skin with no bruises
- Almond butter: provides richness and helps brownies hold together For nut allergies sunflower seed butter works perfectly
- Maple syrup: adds natural sweetness Use real maple syrup if possible for the best depth of flavor
- Cocoa powder: creates the rich chocolate taste Choose unsweetened and look for a deep brown color
- Coconut flour: ensures the brownies are tender and dense Make sure it is not clumpy and smells fresh
- Vanilla extract: optional but brings out the cocoa flavor Look for pure extract not imitation for a better taste
- Baking powder: helps the brownies rise a little and prevents gumminess Gluten free baking powder keeps the recipe allergy friendly
- Salt: makes the chocolate flavor pop Just a little does the trick
- Chocolate chips: make them extra gooey Use dairy free if making vegan brownies and pick a dark chocolate for bolder flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potato:
- Pierce the sweet potato all over and bake microwave or steam until very soft Scoop out the flesh and purée in a food processor until perfectly smooth Measure out exactly one cup and let it cool to room temperature for best results
- Blend the Wet Ingredients:
- In your food processor or a mixing bowl combine the cooled sweet potato purée almond butter maple syrup and vanilla extract Blend until the mixture is silky and uniform making sure there are no lumps left behind
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Add in the cocoa powder coconut flour baking powder and salt Pulse or stir just until fully incorporated and you see no more dry streaks Do not overmix as it will make brownies less tender
- Mix in Chocolate Chips:
- With a spatula gently fold in most of the chocolate chips Reserve a few tablespoons for sprinkling on top This keeps them evenly distributed
- Prepare the Pan and Add Batter:
- Line an eight by eight inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal Pour in the batter use a spatula to smooth the top and sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips evenly over the surface
- Bake the Brownies:
- Put the pan in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Bake for twenty five to twenty eight minutes for that iconic fudgy texture The edges will look set while the center should still seem a touch underdone Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center It should come out with moist crumbs
- Cool and Slice:
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan for at least one hour For even fudgier results chill them in the fridge for two or more hours Use the parchment overhang to lift out the entire block then slice into sixteen neat squares

I always look forward to swirling a spoonful of almond butter into the batter It makes the kitchen smell heavenly and reminds me of baking after school treats with my mom My kids always sneak a taste of the batter before it even hits the pan
Storage Tips
Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days If you want to keep them longer stack them with parchment between layers and freeze in a zip top bag for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of almond butter try creamy cashew butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut free version Instead of maple syrup a liquid monk fruit blend works great if you want a sugar free option Oat flour can replace coconut flour in a pinch but use three tablespoons total as it is less absorbent

Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these brownies chilled straight from the fridge for maximum fudginess or warm them slightly for a softer gooier bite Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream For a fancy finish top with fresh berries
A Sweet Spin on Brownies
Sweet potato brownies come from the trend of sneaking veggies into bakes but their roots go deeper In the South sweet potatoes were often used in desserts during times when sugar was scarce The natural sweetness and creamy texture create a dense rich bar with less added sugar
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be swapped for sunflower seed butter or any favorite nut butter to suit your taste or allergies.
- → What is the best way to soften sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes can be baked, steamed, or microwaved. Ensure they are very soft before puréeing for a creamy base.
- → How do I achieve a fudgy brownie texture?
For maximum fudginess, avoid overbaking. Cool completely and refrigerate at least two hours before slicing for best results.
- → Is it possible to make these brownies sugar-free?
Maple syrup can be replaced with monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar option, maintaining sweetness and texture.
- → How should I store these brownies?
Brownies should be refrigerated in an airtight container; this keeps them moist and improves their fudgy quality.