Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share a unique and healthy twist on a classic favorite: Ragi Brownie with Apple. This recipe marries the rich, chocolaty goodness of brownies with the wholesome, nutty flavor of ragi (finger millet) and the natural sweetness of apples. It’s a dessert that’s not only delicious but also nutritious, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt.

Why Ragi?

Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s gluten-free and packed with calcium, iron, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into their diet. When used in baking, ragi flour adds a slightly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup ragi (finger millet) flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar or jaggery
• 2 eggs (or 2 flax eggs for a vegan version)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

For the Apple Topping:

• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Apple Topping:

• In a small bowl, toss the thinly sliced apple with honey (or maple syrup) and cinnamon. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, sift together the ragi flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. If you’re adding nuts, mix them in now.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter (or coconut oil) and brown sugar (or jaggery) until well combined. Add the eggs (or flax eggs), vanilla extract, and applesauce, and mix until smooth.

5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense brownies.

6. Transfer to Pan:

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Arrange the apple slices on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.

7. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The apples should be tender, and the brownie should have a slight crust on the top.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Success:

• Substitutions: Feel free to substitute the applesauce with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile.
• Storage: These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra treat.

Final Thoughts

These Ragi Brownies with Apple are a delightful combination of health and indulgence. The ragi flour adds a nutritious twist, while the apples lend a natural sweetness that complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert option or simply want to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Happy baking! If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Enjoy!