What Are Gluten-Free Brownies?

Gluten-free brownies are different from traditional brownies because they are not made with wheat flour, but with flour or flours that do not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat. While enriched wheat flour is one of the more common ingredients found in baked goods, foods without gluten are necessary for people suffering from celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and certain allergies. Gluten-free brownies can be made from scratch as well as available baking mixes.

Fortunately, brownies are a combination of fudge and cake-like consistencies, which means many recipes for brownies require less flour than cakes or cookies. This is a particular bonus when making gluten-free brownies from scratch as many recipes do not rely heavily on the flour, but rather on the chocolate and eggs. When making gluten-free brownies from scratch, it makes more sense to search out a specifically gluten-free specific recipe rather than attempt to substitute gluten-free flour for regular flour in just any recipe. There are several types of gluten-free flour, but rice flour is readily available and most commonly called for.

With the elimination of wheat flour, gluten-free brownies are easy and the difference in taste and texture is subtle if even noticeable at all. In fact, when it comes to brownies, it is likely that the type of chocolate used is more important than the type of flour. While gluten-free brownie recipes are easy to find and follow, those who prefer to simply add egg and water will find a mix an ideal solution. Gluten-free brownie mixes are available in most major grocery and whole food retailers.

Certain additions can help to improve the texture and taste of brownies. Adding almonds, walnuts, or peanut butter to brownies is an excellent way to create a balance of sweet and nutty flavors. To provide a contrasting chocolate flavor, the addition of white chocolate chips or chunks may also be appealing. Experimenting with different stir-in ideas is a good way to create variety once a staple brownie recipe has been discovered. Remember that if food allergies, such as nuts, soy, or milk are an issue, special attention should be paid to the ingredients of both homemade recipes and box mixes.

Gluten-free brownies are just one of several baked treats that are suitable for people with celiac disease, a wheat allergy, or gluten intolerance. Other treats that are suitable and still contain chocolate include fudge, rice cereal treats with chocolate stirred in, and flourless peanut butter cookies with chocolate on top.