Low Calorie Greek Yogurt Brownies are a sweet treat that feels like a little bit of chocolatey heaven without the guilt. These brownies are rich and fudgy but made lighter with creamy Greek yogurt, which keeps them moist and tender. You get all the chocolate goodness, with a texture that’s soft and satisfying, but with fewer calories than your usual brownie.
I love making these brownies because they feel like a special dessert, but I don’t have to worry about overdoing it. Using Greek yogurt is a simple little trick that adds protein and cuts down on fat, and the brownies come out so well you might forget they’re actually pretty healthy. I often sneak in a handful of dark chocolate chips or a sprinkle of walnuts for some extra flavor and crunch.
My favorite way to enjoy these is fresh out of the oven with a cold glass of milk or a cup of tea. They’re perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a healthier dessert option after dinner. I’ve shared these brownies at family gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe because they can’t believe they’re so low calorie yet so delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: This is the star ingredient that keeps brownies moist and soft with fewer calories. Nonfat plain Greek yogurt works best for texture and tang. You can swap with low-fat or plain kefir if you want a thinner batter.
Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce replaces oil or butter to lower fat but keep moisture. If you don’t have applesauce, mashed banana or pumpkin puree are nice alternatives.
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor without extra sugar. If you want sweeter brownies, add a little more sugar or use Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste.
Flour: Whole wheat flour adds fiber and a slight nuttiness, perfect for keeping it healthy. All-purpose flour is an easy swap if you want a lighter texture.
Chocolate Chips: Optional but great for extra chocolate punch. Mini dark chocolate chips melt right into the brownies. You can omit or replace with chopped nuts for crunch.
How Do I Make These Brownies Fudgy and Not Dry?
To get soft, fudgy brownies with Greek yogurt, it’s all about mixing and baking time.
- Mix ingredients gently—overmixing makes brownies tough. Stir just until the dry ingredients are combined with wet.
- Don’t skip letting the batter rest a few minutes; this helps the flour hydrate and improves texture.
- Bake until a toothpick shows moist crumbs, not clean. Overbaking dries them out, so check early at 20 mins.
- Let the brownies cool fully in the pan—cutting while warm can cause crumbling. Cooling sets the fudgy texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch baking pan – the perfect size for even baking and easy slicing.
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray – helps the brownies lift out cleanly and prevents sticking.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need one for wet and one for dry ingredients to keep mixing simple and tidy.
- Whisk or spoon – for blending the ingredients smoothly without overmixing.
- Toothpick or cake tester – to check when the brownies are perfectly baked.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the fudgy brownie.
- Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to boost the chocolate flavor and add depth.
- Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a new twist.
- Stir in fresh raspberries or dried cranberries for a fruity burst that brightens the brownies.
Low Calorie Greek Yogurt Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar or a sugar substitute equivalent
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional for extra fudginess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, with an additional 15-20 minutes of cooling time before cutting. Overall, you’ll spend under an hour from start to finish, making it a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthier chocolate treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, sugar (or substitute), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps prevent lumps and ensures even mixing.
4. Mix and Fold Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. If you like, fold in the mini dark chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
5. Bake and Cool
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan to achieve the best fudgy texture before cutting into squares.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy your moist, rich low-calorie Greek yogurt brownies on their own or with a cold glass of milk or your favorite beverage. Perfect for a guilt-free chocolate treat anytime!
Can I Use Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Instead of Nonfat?
Yes! Fat-free Greek yogurt works well and keeps the brownies moist while reducing calories. Just avoid flavored varieties to maintain the right texture and flavor balance.
Can I Substitute Applesauce with Another Ingredient?
Absolutely! Mashed banana or pumpkin puree are great alternatives that add moisture and natural sweetness. Keep in mind they may slightly change the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw frozen brownies overnight in the fridge.
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well for best results.
