These Vegan Papaya Pineapple Brownie Bars combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the tropical flavors of papaya and pineapple. This unique dessert is perfect for a refreshing treat that’s both delicious and healthy!

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

• 1 cup (240ml) ripe papaya puree (about 1 medium ripe papaya)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) melted coconut oil or vegan butter
• 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150g) crushed pineapple, drained (fresh or canned)

For Topping:

• 1/4 cup (40g) dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)
• Shredded coconut for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Papaya Puree: Peel and chop the ripe papaya, then blend it in a food processor until smooth to create about 1 cup of papaya puree.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the papaya puree, melted coconut oil or vegan butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Add Pineapple: Gently fold in the crushed pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and Add Toppings: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then sprinkle with dairy-free chocolate chips and shredded coconut if desired. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
9. Serve: Enjoy your Vegan Papaya Pineapple Brownie Bars as a delightful dessert or snack!

Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Customization: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra texture.
• Fudginess Factor: For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them and let them set as they cool.

These Vegan Papaya Pineapple Brownie Bars are a delicious twist on traditional brownies, combining tropical flavors that are sure to impress! Enjoy your tropical treat!