There’s something truly magical about the combination of chocolate and tahini in a brownie. I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a family gathering, and it quickly became a household favorite. The rich, creamy texture of the chocolate is perfectly complemented by the nutty, slightly savory flavor of tahini, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and unique. These brownies were a hit with everyone, from the youngest to the oldest. My family couldn’t get enough of them, and even the pickiest eaters were asking for seconds. It’s rare to find a dessert that pleases everyone, but these brownies certainly hit the mark. The blend of flavors offers a new twist on a classic treat, making it an exciting addition to any dessert spread.
Ingredients
To create these mouth-watering Chocolate and Tahini Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of tahini
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- Sea salt flakes for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the tahini until well combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Slowly add the chocolate-tahini mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle sea salt flakes over the top for a touch of salty contrast.
Step 6: 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 in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings. Each serving contains about 250 calories. These brownies offer a delightful treat with a balance of sweetness and richness that can be enjoyed guilt-free, especially when shared among friends and family.
Preparation Time
From start to finish, these Chocolate and Tahini Brownies take about 45 minutes to prepare and bake. This includes approximately 15 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes of baking time. The process is straightforward, making it an ideal recipe even for novice bakers.
How to Serve
- Warm and Fresh: Serve the brownies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
- Chilled: For a fudgier texture, refrigerate the brownies and serve them chilled.
- With a Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or tahini over the top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
- As a Snack: Cut into smaller squares for a perfect on-the-go snack or lunchbox treat.
- Garnished: Top with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
Additional Tips
Tip 1: Make sure to use high-quality chocolate chips and tahini for the best flavor. The quality of these ingredients can greatly impact the overall taste of the brownies.
Tip 2: If you prefer a less sweet brownie, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar by 1/4 cup without affecting the texture too much.
Tip 3: For a more pronounced tahini flavor, swirl an extra tablespoon of tahini on top of the batter before baking.
Tip 4: Be careful not to overbake the brownies. They should be slightly undercooked in the center when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to set as they cool.
Tip 5: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
A1: Yes, dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Just keep in mind that this will make the brownies less sweet.
Q2: Is there a substitute for tahini if I don’t have any?
A2: You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute for tahini. These will give a slightly different flavor but still complement the chocolate well.
Q3: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for the right texture.
Q4: What type of cocoa powder should I use?
A4: Unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended for this recipe. It provides the deep, rich chocolate flavor needed to balance the sweetness and nuttiness.
Q5: How can I tell when the brownies are done?
A5: The brownies are done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy texture.