Spinach Brownies Recipe

Irresistibly Fudgy Spinach Brownies Recipe: Sweet & Sneaky

Spinach brownies might sound like an unexpected culinary adventure, but this creative dessert crafts a classic treat into a nutrient-packed indulgence.

Leafy greens have a magical way of sneaking delicious nutrition into familiar comfort foods without compromising taste.

These unique brownies challenge traditional dessert expectations by incorporating a vibrant green vegetable into a chocolatey canvas.

Surprisingly moist and decadent, the recipe balances rich cocoa with subtle earthy spinach undertones that intrigue the palate.

Nutritional benefits merge seamlessly with the indulgent texture, creating a guilt-free dessert that satisfies sweet cravings while supporting wellness goals.

Skeptical bakers and curious food enthusiasts will find this innovative recipe both surprising and delightful.

Prepare to revolutionize your baking perspective with a dessert that defies conventional wisdom.

Why Spinach Brownies Are a Sneaky, Sweet Surprise

  • Boost Nutrition Secretly: Sneak spinach into a delightful baked treat that packs incredible health benefits without compromising on taste, making it a clever way to enjoy vegetables.
  • Create Effortless Crowd-Pleaser: Whip up a simple one-bowl recipe that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Enjoy Versatile Savory Delight: Transform traditional sweet brownies into a cheesy, herby sensation that works wonderfully as an appetizer, snack, or light meal accompaniment, satisfying different cravings with its moist texture and rich flavor profile.

What Goes into These Unlikely but Tasty Spinach Brownies

Main Ingredients:
  • Spinach: Fresh green leaves with high nutritional value and vibrant color for the brownies. – Onion: Provides savory depth and aromatic flavor to the spinach mixture.
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Milk, Butter: Creates creamy texture, adds richness, and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Flour: Serves as the primary structure and base for the brownies.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the brownies rise and creates a light texture.
  • Eggs: Acts as a primary binding agent and provides structure to the brownies.

How to Bake Moist and Chocolatey Spinach Brownies

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Tame the Spinach

Toss fresh spinach into a medium saucepan. Pour in enough water to cover the leaves completely. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then turn down the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the spinach cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and wilted. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Magic Batter

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Salt
  • Baking powder
Pour in the eggs, milk, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended. Now add your star ingredients:
  • Cooked spinach
  • Chopped onion
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese

Give everything a good mix so each bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Pro tip: The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Slice and Savor

Let the spinach brownies cool down in the baking dish for a few minutes. Cut into square portions and serve. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature – perfect for a quick snack or light meal!

Tips for Getting the Right Spinach Texture in Brownies

  • Squeeze Excess Moisture: Thoroughly drain and pat the cooked spinach dry to prevent a watery batter and ensure a firm, crisp texture.
  • Shred Cheese Fresh: Grate mozzarella cheese directly from a block for better melting and more authentic flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • Customize Seasonings: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like basil, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to complement the spinach and cheese.
  • Check Doneness Carefully: Test brownies with a toothpick at 30 minutes, but don't overbake; they should remain slightly moist in the center for a tender consistency.
  • Serve with Dips: Pair these savory brownies with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or herb-infused yogurt for an extra layer of deliciousness.

How to Store and Reheat Spinach Brownies Without Drying Them

  • Storage: Wrap cooled spinach brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
  • Freezing: Individually wrap each brownie square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track storage time.
  • Reheating: Warm refrigerated brownies in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. For frozen brownies, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Always check the internal temperature to ensure even warming.

What to Serve with Fudgy Spinach Brownies

  • Complement with Crisp White Wine: Pair these savory spinach brownies with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and cut through the buttery texture.
  • Match with Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness and contrast to the dense, cheesy spinach brownies.
  • Elevate with Herb Dipping Sauce: Create a zesty herb-infused yogurt or sour cream dip with chopped chives and dill to enhance the greenery and provide a cool, tangy accompaniment.
  • Boost with Protein Side: Add a small portion of grilled chicken or smoked salmon to transform these brownies into a more substantial light lunch or appetizer plate.

New Spins on the Spinach Brownie Combo

  • Green Guardian Brownies: Replace mozzarella with feta cheese and add crumbled sundried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Protein Power Brownies: Incorporate cooked quinoa or diced chicken into the batter to boost protein content and create a more substantial meal option.
  • Spicy Spinach Squares: Mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, and swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to deliver a zesty, heat-packed version of the original recipe.
  • Herb-Infused Wellness Squares: Blend fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and chives into the batter to enhance the nutritional value and introduce complex herbal undertones.
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Spinach Brownies Recipe

Spinach Brownies Recipe


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4.7 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Spinach Brownies offer a sneaky nutritious twist on classic chocolate treats. Packed with leafy greens and rich chocolate, these brownies surprise palates while delivering wholesome goodness you’ll crave.


Ingredients

Scale

main ingredients:

  • 1 (10-ounce) package spinach, rinsed and chopped
  • 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 1 onion, chopped

dry ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously coat a 9×13 inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Fill a medium saucepan with water and submerge the fresh spinach completely. Heat until boiling, then reduce to a gentle simmer for approximately 3 minutes, allowing the spinach leaves to wilt and soften.
  3. Drain the cooked spinach thoroughly using a colander, pressing out excess moisture with the back of a spoon or paper towels to ensure a dry texture.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder, creating a uniform dry mixture.
  5. Whisk the eggs, whole milk, and melted unsalted butter into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth, consistent batter forms.
  6. Fold the drained spinach, finely chopped onion, and shredded mozzarella cheese into the batter, ensuring even distribution of ingredients throughout the mixture.
  7. Transfer the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a uniform layer.
  8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean when the brownies are fully cooked.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the spinach brownies cool in the baking dish for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to set and become easier to slice.
  10. Cut into square portions and serve either warm or at room temperature as a savory appetizer or light meal accompaniment.

Notes

  • Surprise your taste buds with these unexpected savory spinach brownies that blur the line between snack and side dish.
  • Squeeze out excess water from cooked spinach to prevent a watery, soggy texture in your final baked result.
  • Shredded mozzarella adds a creamy, melty dimension that transforms these spinach squares into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal.
  • Customize the recipe by adding herbs like basil or chives for extra flavor complexity and aromatic appeal.
  • Perfect for meal prep, these brownies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated quickly for a convenient protein-packed bite.
  • Use fresh spinach for the best nutritional value and vibrant green color that makes these brownies visually appealing and healthy.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 206 kcal
  • Sugar: 1.5 g
  • Sodium: 303 mg
  • Fat: 14.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5.2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12.7 g
  • Fiber: 1.2 g
  • Protein: 8.3 g
  • Cholesterol: 64 mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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