Protein Chocolate Brownies

Can a brownie actually be healthy? Yes! This recipe is richer in protein, antioxidants and fibre and lower in sugar and fat than traditional brownies. It contain grounds almonds, Greek yogurt and chocolate whey powder, which make the brownies super-moist and surprisingly satisfying.

Photo credit: http://www.adrianlawrencephotography.com/

Makes 12

100g (3 ½ oz) olive oil spread

50g (2oz) ) Sugar with Stevia or 100g (3 ½ oz) sugar

2 eggs

½ tsp vanilla extract

100g (3 ½ oz) ground almonds

100g (3 ½ oz) self-raising flour

2 tsp baking powder

25g (1oz) cocoa powder

25g (1oz) chocolate whey powder

2 tbsp strained Greek yogurt

3 – 4 tbsp milk

50g (2oz) pecan nuts

50g (2oz) raisins

Pre-heat the oven to 180 C/ fan 160 C/ gas mark 4. Line a 20 x 20cm tin with baking parchment.

In a bowl (or a mixer) mix together the olive oil spread, sugar/ stevia, eggs, vanilla extract, almonds, flour, baking powder, cocoa, whey powder, yogurt and milk until well combined. You should have a soft consistency. Fold in the pecans and raisins.

Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin, smooth the surface and bake in the pre-heated oven for 20 minutes until risen and firm and al skewer inserted in to the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then cut into 12 squares.