Easy Vegan Fudge Brownies with Rich Frosting

Vegan Fudge Brownies with Rich Frosting are a very important dessert in my house’s “treat rotation,” and they’re not just for strict vegans either. Chocolate lovers of all kinds, kids, guests, even self-proclaimed “butter people”, end up reaching for these fudgy squares!

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Brownies can be a little tricky to master, especially when you want that perfectly dense, melt-in-your-mouth texture without any dairy or eggs. The key is not to rush the process: measure carefully, don’t overbake, and give them time to cool before slathering on the frosting. I like to let the baked brownies rest and the frosting set so they slice into clean, rich squares.

The last time I made a pan, family dropped by, and everyone went back for seconds. I served them with fresh berries and hot coffee, and it turned into the simplest, coziest dessert spread. These brownies make any gathering feel special, and they’re just as good for those late-night “sneak a slice” moments, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies bring all the indulgence without any dairy or eggs.

Fudgy texture: Dense, chewy, and meltingly soft inside with a slight crust on top.

Rich frosting: Dairy-free chocolate chips create a creamy, luscious layer that complements every bite.

Quick and simple: Minimal prep, no complicated steps, and easy to mix in one bowl.

Plant-based comfort: Entirely vegan but tastes just as decadent as traditional brownies.

Customizable: Add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chunks for extra texture and flavor.

Kid-approved: Sweet, chocolatey, and irresistible for little hands and grown-ups alike.

I like to sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the frosting; it balances the sweetness and adds a touch of gourmet flair. You can also serve them slightly warm for an extra gooey chocolate experience.

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Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested)
  
• 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons coconut cream or plant-based milk
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the flax egg and oven

Mix the flaxseed meal and water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Make the brownie batter

In a large bowl, combine the flax egg, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Sift in cocoa powder, oat flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until fully incorporated, then fold in half of the chocolate chips. The batter should be thick and chocolatey.

3. Bake the brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft. Let cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes.

4. Prepare the frosting

Melt the dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut cream together in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth. Add maple syrup if desired. Spread evenly over the cooled brownies. Let it set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

5. Serve and enjoy

Cut into squares and serve. For extra indulgence, pair with vegan ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dusting of cocoa powder. The brownies are rich, fudgy, and satisfyingly chocolaty in every bite.

Tips & Variations

Extra fudgy: Reduce the baking time slightly for a gooier center.

Add-ins: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cherries for extra texture.

Cocoa boost: Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Make ahead: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or freeze for up to a month.

Decorative twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts over the frosting before it sets.

Serving Suggestions

These vegan fudge brownies shine as a dessert or snack. Serve them with a scoop of plant-based vanilla ice cream or alongside fresh berries for a balanced sweet treat. They also work perfectly as a decadent treat at parties, picnics, or afternoon coffee breaks. Warm them slightly for a gooey chocolate experience that everyone will adore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, oat flour is naturally gluten-free. Ensure certified gluten-free oats if needed.

Can I skip the frosting?

Absolutely! The brownies are rich and fudgy enough on their own.

How do I store them?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes, a teaspoon of espresso powder enhances the chocolate, or swirl peanut butter for a nutty twist.

How do I get a shiny top on the brownies?

Sprinkling extra chocolate chips on top before baking and gently pressing them into the batter helps create a glossy, chocolatey surface.

Final Thoughts

Easy Vegan Fudge Brownies with Rich Frosting proves that plant-based baking can be decadent, chocolatey, and satisfying. The fudgy texture, rich frosting, and simple ingredients make it a reliable recipe for every chocolate lover. Whether served at a party, enjoyed with coffee, or snuck as a midnight treat, these brownies deliver pure chocolate bliss every time.