Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. Easy, right?
Combine Dry: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Make sure it's all blended!
1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix Wet: In a large bowl, combine the sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine Wet and Dry: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, gently mixing until just combined. Don't overmix, or your brownies might get tough.
1 cup all-purpose flour
Add Goodies: Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if you're using them). Get creative!
1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with Valentine's Day sprinkles for extra festive cheer.
Valentine's Day sprinkles
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Check often so they don't overbake.
Cool: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This helps them firm up.
Serve: Slice, share, and enjoy your Easy Valentine's Day Brownies! Perfect with a scoop of ice cream or a glass of milk.
