Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus: An Incredible Guilt-Free Treat
Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus is a delectable twist on the classic dip, merging the rich, indulgent flavors of brownie batter with the nutritious benefits of hummus. This amazing treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt that often accompanies dessert. Not only is it a delightful option for chocolate lovers, but it’s also a healthier alternative that can be enjoyed by everyone—especially those who are looking for plant-based or gluten-free options. The idea of hummus as a dessert might seem daring at first, but once you indulge in this velvety, rich, and satisfying snack, you’ll surely be converted. You can serve it with fresh fruit, graham crackers, or even pretzels, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Given its deliciously smooth texture and chocolatey flavor, it’s bound to impress friends and family alike. In this article, we will explore why this Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus recipe is truly special, the preparation time needed, the ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, and how to serve this delightful hummus.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
For so many compelling reasons, Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus will quickly become a favorite in your household:
- Nutritious Ingredients – Using chickpeas and natural sweeteners, you can savor a guilt-free dessert that is packed with protein and fiber.
- Quick and Easy – This recipe requires minimal preparation, taking only a few minutes to whip up in a food processor.
- Versatile Serve Options – Pair it with fresh fruits, grain crackers, or even spoon it straight from the bowl.
- No Bake Needed – There’s no cooking required for this treat, making it perfect for warm-weather gatherings or impromptu snack cravings.
- Diet-Friendly – This recipe is suitable for vegans and can be easily adjusted for gluten-free diets.
- Indulgent Flavor – The rich chocolatey taste will satisfy your dessert cravings without the added sugars and fats of traditional brownies.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparing Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus is a breeze! Here’s a breakdown of the time needed:- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup creamy almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- Fresh fruits or graham crackers for dipping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus can be done in just a few simple steps:- Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water to eliminate any canned flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, add the chickpeas, almond butter (or peanut butter), unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Blend: Start blending the mixture until it’s smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure everything is incorporated evenly.
- Adjust Consistency: While blending, gradually add almond milk until you reach your desired consistency. The hummus should be creamy but not too runny.
- Add Chocolate Chips: If you desire extra indulgence, fold in the dark chocolate chips after blending for a delightful texture.
- Taste Adjustments: Taste the hummus, and if you need more sweetness, add extra maple syrup and blend briefly to mix.
- Transfer to Bowl: Once the hummus is a smooth and creamy consistency, transfer it to a serving bowl.
How to Serve
To elevate your Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus experience, consider the following serving suggestions:- Presentation: Serve the hummus in a decorative bowl for an appealing display. Sprinkling a few chocolate chips or cacao nibs on top adds a touch of elegance.
- Dippers: Pair with fresh strawberries, banana slices, apple wedges, graham crackers, or pretzel sticks for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
- Sweeten the Deal: Drizzle a little more maple syrup on top for that extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Chill: For an even more refreshing treat, serve the hummus chilled. Let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Make It a Platter: Create a dessert platter with various dippers, allowing everyone to enjoy different combinations.
Additional Tips
- Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: The flavor of your Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus relies heavily on cocoa powder. Opt for a premium, unsweetened cocoa for the best outcome.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: You may find that your sweet tooth craves more sugar or sweetness. Feel free to add more maple syrup gradually until it meets your liking.
- Experiment with Nut Butters: While almond butter and peanut butter are great choices, you can also try cashew or sunflower seed butter for different flavor profiles.
- Serve with a Variety of Dippers: Don’t be afraid to mix and match your dipping options. It’s fun to see what flavors pair well with your hummus.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting your hummus sit in the fridge for a while can enhance its flavor and make it even more refreshing.
Recipe Variation
Get creative with these tempting variations of Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus:- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to give the hummus a unique kick. It pairs well with sweet fruit dippers.
- Mint Chocolate Version: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flavor, akin to peppermint brownies.
- Nutty Chocolate Hummus: Fold in some finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Fruit-Infused: Blend in a ripe banana or a few spoonfuls of apple sauce to add sweetness and a different taste dimension.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep your Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 5-7 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the hummus for up to a month. Be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Give it a good stir before serving.
Special Equipment
Preparing Brownie Batter Chocolate Hummus is simple and requires minimal equipment:- Food Processor: An essential tool for achieving that velvety, smooth texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will help ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the food processor to mix thoroughly.
- Airtight Container: For storing leftovers, ensuring freshness for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones?
Yes, canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe and will save you time. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before blending.
How can I make this hummus less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, simply cut back on the amount of maple syrup used in the recipe.
What can I substitute for almond butter?
If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or tahini are excellent alternatives.
How many servings does the recipe yield?
This recipe typically yields about 4-6 servings, depending on portion sizes.
Is it safe to freeze the hummus?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s in a sealed container to keep it from absorbing other odors in the freezer.