Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

Fudgy and decadent, these Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Loaded with rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios, they feature a delightful homemade vegan pistachio butter and creamy chocolate topping. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these brownies offer a unique blend of textures and flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and nutty pistachio creates a mouthwatering dessert you’ll crave.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, these brownies cater to various dietary needs while still tasting indulgent.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these brownies can be whipped up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in—these brownies are sure to impress anyone.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and prevents overflows.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep ingredients organized and makes mixing easier.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly, ensuring there are no lumps in your batter.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to get every bit of delicious brownie batter.

Ingredients

Fudgy chocolate brownies loaded with pistachio nuts, topped with a homemade vegan pistachio butter and creamy chocolate cream, with even more pistachio nuts on top! If you love pistachio this is the dessert for you!

For the Brownies

• 60g of cocoa powder
• 180g of all purpose / plain flour
• 170g of dairy-free dark chocolate
• 110g of dairy-free block butter
• 120ml of aquafaba (chickpea brine)
• 280g of caster sugar
• 100g of pistachio nuts (roughly chopped plus extra for sprinkling on top)

For the Topping

• 300g of dairy-free white chocolate
• 200g of pistachio butter
• 120g of plain / vanilla dairy-free yogurt
• 120g of caster sugar
• 170g of dairy-free butter (melted)
• 350g of silken tofu
• 80g of cocoa powder

How to Make Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free dark chocolate and dairy-free block butter. Heat in short intervals until melted, stirring between each heat cycle until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and caster sugar. This will ensure an even distribution when combined with wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine aquafaba with the melted chocolate mixture. Whisk until well combined. Gradually add in the dry mixture until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Pistachios

Gently fold in the roughly chopped pistachios. Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before adding toppings.

Step 7: Prepare Topping

For the topping, melt the dairy-free white chocolate along with melted dairy-free butter in a bowl. Blend together silken tofu and vanilla yogurt until creamy. Mix everything until smooth.

Step 8: Assemble Brownies

Spread the topping over cooled brownies evenly. Sprinkle additional chopped pistachios on top for garnish.

Step 9: Chill & Serve

Let set in the refrigerator for at least an hour before cutting into squares. Enjoy your Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies!

How to Serve Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. These fudgy treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring during quiet evenings at home.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas add a creamy texture that complements the brownies well.

Top with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free alternative adds a light and fluffy texture that balances the richness of the brownies.

Serve with Vegan Ice Cream

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic flavor elevates your dessert experience.
• Pistachio Ice Cream: For true pistachio lovers, this nutty flavor pairs beautifully.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Board: Arrange the brownies alongside fresh fruits, nuts, and chocolate-covered treats for a visually appealing spread.

How to Perfect Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

To achieve the best results when making Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dairy-free dark and white chocolate to enhance flavor.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Ensure precise measurements for consistent texture and taste.
• Blend Tofu Smoothly: Blend silken tofu until completely smooth to avoid lumps in your brownie batter.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully before slicing to maintain their fudgy consistency.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A light and healthy option that adds a creamy element complementing the brownies.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the brownies.
3. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top adds texture and fiber, making it more satisfying.
4. Dairy-Free Milkshake: Blend your favorite plant-based milk with ice and serve alongside for a decadent treat.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
6. Vegan Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecakes can provide an interesting twist while keeping the theme of indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking vegan pistachio cream brownies can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Always ensure your vegan butter and other ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to avoid misproportioned brownies.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your brownies to cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and a better texture.
• Using stale nuts: Check that your pistachios are fresh. Stale nuts can affect the flavor and texture of your brownies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

• Place brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat brownies for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies so special?

These brownies are rich in chocolate flavor, complemented by creamy pistachio butter and crunchy pistachios. They offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies?

Yes! You can use different types of dairy-free chocolate or nut butters if desired. Just ensure they are suitable for vegan diets.

How do I make the pistachio butter from scratch?

Blend roasted pistachios in a food processor until smooth. Add a little oil if needed for creaminess, then use it as directed in the recipe.

Can I add other nuts or toppings to the brownies?

Feel free to customize! You can mix in walnuts, almonds, or even top with coconut flakes for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for gatherings or as an everyday treat, they can be customized with different nuts or flavors. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!