Okay, friends, let’s talk brownies. Specifically, let’s talk about these Greek Yogurt Brownies. I know what you’re thinking: “Greek yogurt… in brownies?” Trust me on this one. I was skeptical too, but these are seriously next-level good. They’re fudgy, intensely chocolatey, and have that perfect crackly top we all crave. Think of them as a cross between a classic fudgy brownie and those crazy decadent flourless chocolate cakes. And the best part? You can feel a *little* bit better about indulging because of that sneaky Greek yogurt! They’re quickly becoming a staple in my house, rivaling even my grandma’s famous Chocolate Chip Cookies (and that’s saying something!).
What is Greek Yogurt Brownies?
So, what *are* these magical Greek yogurt Brownies, exactly? It’s essentially a brownie recipe where we’ve swapped out some of the butter (gasp!) with creamy, tangy Greek yogurt. Now, before you run screaming for the hills, hear me out! The Greek yogurt adds moisture and richness while also contributing to a really interesting depth of flavor. Think of it as adding a subtle tang that balances the intense chocolate. The texture is fudgy and decadent, almost like a cross between a traditional brownie and a chocolate truffle. It’s a slightly healthier twist on the classic treat, without sacrificing any of the flavor or that gooey, melty goodness we all adore.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are a million brownie recipes out there, I know. So, why should you try these Greek Yogurt Brownies? First and foremost: the flavor! They’re deeply chocolatey, rich, and fudgy, with a subtle tang from the Greek yogurt that elevates them beyond your average brownie. I love how the tang cuts through the sweetness, making them irresistible without being cloying.
But it’s not just about the taste. These brownies are surprisingly easy to make. Seriously, you don’t need to be a professional baker to nail this recipe. They come together in one bowl (less cleanup!), and the ingredients are pantry staples.
Plus, let’s be real, the cost-efficiency is a major win. Greek yogurt is often cheaper than butter, and you’re using less of it! It’s a small change that can make a big difference, especially if you bake as much as I do. What I love most about this is that it’s versatile! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, swirls of Peanut Butter, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to customize them to your heart’s content. They’re perfect for a weeknight dessert, a weekend brunch, or even a potluck party. And if you’re a fan of my double chocolate zucchini bread, you’ll definitely love this!
How do I make Greek yogurt brownies?
Quick Overview
Making these Greek Yogurt Brownies is seriously a breeze. You’ll start by mixing the dry ingredients, then combining the wet ingredients separately. Gently fold everything together, swirl in your favorite fillings (I’m a sucker for a Peanut Butter swirl!), and bake until fudgy perfection. The magic is really in not overbaking them – a slightly gooey center is what we’re after! Trust me, it’s easier than making a boxed mix, and the flavor is a thousand times better.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup all-purpose flour: I always use unbleached, but bleached works too!
* ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Go for a good quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. I prefer Dutch-processed.
* 1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps them rise and get that perfect crackly top.
* ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
* 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the texture.
* ½ cup packed light Brown Sugar: For a richer, more molasses-y flavor and extra fudginess.
* ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat): This is the key ingredient! Don’t use flavored yogurt.
* ¼ cup vegetable oil: Keeps them moist.
* 2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness.
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
* ½ cup chocolate chips: Optional, but highly recommended!
For the Glaze:
* 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and shine to the glaze.
* 2 tablespoons milk: Thins out the glaze. I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch and it works perfectly.
* 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavor.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. I like to line it with parchment paper as well, leaving an overhang on the sides, for easy removal. It’s a lifesaver when you want to get those brownies out in one piece!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Make sure to whisk well to get rid of any lumps in the cocoa powder. This ensures an even texture in the final product.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. The mixture should be light and airy.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, if using. The batter should be thick and glossy.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Don’t be tempted to overbake them! A slightly gooey center is what you want for fudgy brownies.
Step 6: Cool & Glaze
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting. This is crucial! If you try to frost them while they’re still warm, the glaze will melt right off. To make the glaze, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Do not overcook brownies. Pour the glaze over them and spread evenly.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze has set, cut the brownies into squares and serve. I like to use a warm knife for cleaner cuts. They’re delicious served warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve It With
What are some of the best Greek yogurt brownies? Can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.For Breakfast:What are some good ways to serve a warm brownie with coffee? What is the best combination of chocolate and coffee? I sometimes crumble a brownie over my yogurt for an extra indulgent start to the day.For Brunch:What’s a good brunch spread? Serve these brownies with fresh berries and whipped topping. What is the best accompaniment to a Bellini or Mimosa? I love arranging the brownies on a pretty platter with berries. I like putting them on the top of my favorite brownie.As Dessert:What are the best brownies to serve with ice cream? If you had a glass of sparkling wine or hot chocolate, what would you serve? My family loves homemade vanilla bean ice cream!For Cozy Snacks:On a chilly evening, enjoy brownies with milk or tea. I love brownies and a good book. It’s the ultimate comfort food. What is the best way to unwind after a long day?
How do I make a perfect Greek yogurt brownie?
I’ve made these Greek Yogurt Brownies countless times, so I have picked up a few tricks. How do I make sure they turn out perfectly every time?Cocoa Powder: What is the best Using high-quality cocoa powder makes a *huge* difference in the final flavor. I always opt for Dutch-processed cocoa because it has a richer, smoother flavor. But regular unsweetened cocoa works perfectly too if that’s what you have on hand.
Mixing Advice:How do you make fudgy brownies? Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can result in tough brownies. What are some lumps in the mixture?Ingredient Swaps:If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute sour cream for plain yogurt. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious. I’ve used almond milk in the glaze when I was out of regular milk and it turned out great!Baking Tips:Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the brownies while they’re baking. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes. If a toothpick is inserted into the center of the tooth, it should come out with moist crumbs attached.Glaze Variations:Feel free to get creative with glazes! Add a dash of peppermint extract to sprinkling the mocha glaze. Or, for an extra festive touch, add some espresso powder. What is the best way to make a brownie without the glaze? I sometimes add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the glaze for an even richer chocolate flavor.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
How do you make a batch of these delicious Greek yogurt brownies? How do you store dried fruits to keep them fresh and delicious? What’s the lowdown?Room Temperature: These brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. I usually cover them with plastic wrap or store them in a zip-top bag.
Refrigerator Storage: WhatIf you want to keep them for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Is it safe to store these in an airtight container? Is it safe to let a chicken come to room temperature? Temperature before serving.How do I useFor long-term storage, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Can you store them in the freezer for up to 3 months? When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the brownies, I recommend glazing them after thawing. The glaze can sometimes get a bit sticky when frozen and thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for fudgy, delicious, and slightly healthier Greek Yogurt Brownies. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. They’re incredibly easy to make, require just a few simple ingredients, and are guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings. And the best part? You can feel a *little* bit better about indulging! If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my chocolate avocado mousse. Both are decadent treats with a sneaky healthy twist! Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Let me know in the comments below if you try them. Also, don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it!
Greek Yogurt Brownies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add flour, Greek yogurt, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool completely before cutting and serving.
