If you’re on the hunt for a delightful twist on classic brownies, then you absolutely must try this Tahini Brownies Recipe. These rich, fudgy treats combine the nutty, slightly savory flavor of tahini with deep, bittersweet chocolate, resulting in a wonderfully balanced dessert that feels both sophisticated and comforting. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create brownies that are moist, dense, and swirled with creamy tahini goodness—perfect for sharing with friends or indulging all by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Tahini Brownies Recipe plays an important role, from lending structure to adding decadent flavor and perfect texture. The combo is surprisingly simple but absolutely essential to achieving brownies that are luscious, not dry or cakey.
- Cornstarch: Provides a tender crumb and helps give the brownies a slightly chewy texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings intense chocolate flavor without added sweetness.
- Bittersweet chocolate: Adds richness and depth while melting smoothly into the batter.
- Coconut oil: Keeps the brownies moist and adds a subtle tropical undertone.
- Tahini: The star ingredient, it introduces a unique earthiness and creamy swirl throughout.
- Eggs: Provide structure and help the brownies rise just enough.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a slightly crisp crust.
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor for balance.
- Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the chocolate with warm, aromatic notes.
How to Make Tahini Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step ensures your brownies will bake evenly and be easy to lift out once cool.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and cocoa powder. Stirring these together evenly is key to distributing the chocolate flavor smoothly throughout your batter.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Combine with Fats
Gently melt the bittersweet chocolate in the microwave, taking care to heat it in short bursts so it doesn’t seize. Stir in the coconut oil and half of your tahini until you have a glossy, rich mixture. This blend is what gives the brownies their irresistible fudgy texture.
Step 4: Beat Eggs and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar with an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture has doubled in volume and feels luxuriously smooth—this aeration gives your brownies lift and lightness.
Step 5: Combine Flavorings and Chocolate
Mix in the sea salt and vanilla extract, then pour in the melted chocolate mixture. Beat it all together on medium speed, then increase to medium-high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until thick and glossy, indicating everything is perfectly incorporated.
Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the cocoa and cornstarch mixture to the wet batter, beating on medium-high speed just long enough for everything to combine thoroughly without overmixing. The result should be a thick batter that holds its shape when scooped.
Step 7: Swirl in the Tahini
Transfer your batter to the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Drizzle the remaining tahini over the top in generous ribbons, then take a toothpick or fork to swirl it through the batter—this creates those signature creamy streaks that make these brownies extra special.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 22 to 26 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is set and slightly browned, and the edges puff up a bit. Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares to preserve their fudgy texture.
How to Serve Tahini Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These brownies are beautifully rich on their own, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving can really elevate the flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted sesame seeds complements the tahini notes perfectly as well.
Side Dishes
Pair this Tahini Brownies Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic experience. For a lighter touch, fresh berries or a simple fruit salad brighten up the dessert and balance the dense chocolate perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning party platter, cut the brownies into small bites and layer them with pieces of halva or sesame brittle. You can also serve them alongside a cup of rich coffee or chai tea to bring out the warm, nutty tahini flavors in unexpected ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover tahini brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save these brownies for later, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature.
Reheating
To warm your brownies, heat them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes. This softens the texture and brings back that freshly baked vibe, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea.
FAQs
Can I substitute the coconut oil?
Yes! You can use melted butter or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil as a substitute. Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor, but these alternatives will still yield fudgy brownies.
Is tahini necessary in the recipe?
Tahini is the signature ingredient in this recipe, giving the brownies their unique nutty flavor and creamy swirl. Without it, you’d lose that distinct character that sets these brownies apart.
Can I make these brownies vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, try replacing the eggs with flax eggs or another vegan binder and use a vegan chocolate. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Why is cornstarch used in this recipe?
Cornstarch helps give the brownies a chewy yet tender crumb by softening the gluten in the flour-free mixture. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in texture.
How do I know when these brownies are done?
The brownies are done when the top is set and lightly browned, and the edges look puffed. A toothpick inserted anywhere in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tasted brownies with tahini before, this Tahini Brownies Recipe is a wonderful place to start. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and offers a playful spin on traditional chocolate desserts. I encourage you to dive in, experiment with the swirls, and savor every rich, nutty bite. Happy baking!
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Tahini Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Tahini Brownies offer a rich and fudgy twist on classic brownies by incorporating creamy tahini and bittersweet chocolate. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a subtle nutty flavor from tahini, these brownies are delightfully dense and moist. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and baked to perfection, they make a unique dessert or snack for chocolate lovers looking for something different.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, broken into pieces
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 4 tablespoons tahini, divided
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir well to evenly distribute.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate in the microwave for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Stir in the coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of tahini until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Beat Eggs and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, add eggs, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Using a hand mixer, beat on medium-high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and has doubled in volume.
- Add Flavorings and Chocolate: Add sea salt and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Then pour in the melted chocolate mixture. Beat on medium speed until combined, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 30 seconds to 1 minute until thick and holding its shape.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the cornstarch and cocoa powder mixture into the batter. Beat on medium-high speed for 30 seconds to 1 minute until thick and stable.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of tahini over the top. Use a toothpick or fork to swirl the tahini throughout the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the top is browned and the edges are puffed up. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before cutting into 9 squares.
Notes
- Make sure not to overbake to keep the brownies fudgy and moist.
- You can substitute the coconut oil with another neutral oil if preferred.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality bittersweet chocolate.
- Allow brownies to cool completely if you prefer a firmer texture before slicing.
- Tahini swirls add a unique creamy and nutty flavor; feel free to add more or less according to taste.
