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**For the Brownies:**
– 1 cup (200g) coconut sugar or brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut oil, melted
– 1/4 cup (60ml) almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
– 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (100g) vegan chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
**For the Chocolate Glaze:**
– 1/2 cup (120ml) canned coconut milk (full-fat)
– 1/2 cup (90g) vegan dark chocolate chips or chopped vegan dark chocolate
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. **Make the Brownie Batter:**
– In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, almond milk, flax egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
– Sift in the cocoa powder and stir until smooth.
– In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the vegan chocolate chips or chunks.
3. **Bake the Brownies:**
– Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
– Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before glazing.
4. **Prepare the Chocolate Glaze:**
– In a small saucepan, heat the coconut milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
– Remove from heat and add the vegan dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth.
– Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
5. **Glaze the Brownies:**
– Once the brownies are completely cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper.
– Place the brownies on a serving plate or cutting board.
– Pour the chocolate glaze over the brownies, spreading it evenly with a spatula if needed.
– Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Cut into squares and enjoy your rich, fudgy vegan brownies with a glossy chocolate glaze!
Feel free to customize with nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor!