Grain-Free Chocolate Walnut Brownies

Ali Segersten
GRAIN-FREE DAIRY-FREE CHOCOLATE WALNUT BROWNIES-2

If you're gathering with loved ones this holiday weekend and want to bring a treat that feels both indulgent and deeply nourishing, these flourless walnut brownies are a perfect fit. Rich, chocolatey, and satisfying, they’re made without any grains or flours—just whole walnuts and raw cacao powder as the base.

You’ll find this recipe in the Nourishing Meals cookbook, nestled among many other gluten-free and grain-free delights designed to support healing and celebration in equal measure.

But these brownies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re also a true superfood snack.

Walnuts are one of the most nutrient-dense nuts, offering a rare and highly protective form of vitamin E called gamma-tocopherol, which research has linked to lower inflammation, improved cardiovascular health, and reduced prostate cancer risk. They’re also packed with unique phytonutrients—like juglone and tellimagrandin—that you won’t find in many other foods. These compounds help reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress.

Walnuts also supply:

  • Magnesium to calm the nervous system
  • A touch of melatonin to support circadian rhythms
  • Essential trace minerals like copper, manganese, and selenium

Pair that with raw cacao—a powerful source of flavonoids and mood-boosting compounds—and you have a dessert that’s as good for the soul as it is for the body. Enjoy these brownies as a midday energy boost, a grounding afternoon treat, or a naturally sweet dessert to share with others. They’re rich, satisfying, and so simple to make.

Recipe from our Meal Planner

Grain-Free Chocolate Walnut Brownies

GRAIN-FREE DAIRY-FREE CHOCOLATE WALNUT BROWNIES-1
Servings
16 brownies
Cook Time
20 minutes
Prep Time
10 minutes

Rich, fudgy, and deeply satisfying, these grain-free brownies come together in minutes with just a handful of nourishing ingredients. All you need is a food processor—meaning minimal cleanup and maximum ease! Ground walnuts provide plenty of heart-healthy fats, eliminating the need for added oils or butter while creating a naturally decadent texture. A touch of pure maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the deep chocolate flavor. Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of homemade coconut milk ice cream for an irresistibly wholesome dessert—perfect for when you want something truly delicious and nourishing at the same time.

Tip

Baking times will vary depending on the type of baking dish used. Metal baking pans will require about 18 to 20 minutes total baking time, while glass or ceramic baking dishes require about 20 to 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

2 cups raw walnuts
⅓ cups cacao powder
½ teaspoons baking soda
¼ teaspoons sea salt

Wet Ingredients

2 large eggs
½ cups maple syrup
1 tablespoons vanilla extract
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8 x 8-inch glass baking dish with coconut oil.
  2. Place the walnuts into a food processor fitted with the “s” blade. 
  3. Process until very finely ground, stopping just before they turn into nut butter.
  4. Then add the remaining dry ingredients and pulse again to combine.
  5. Add the wet ingredients and process again until smooth. You will still have tiny chunks of walnuts visible and this is fine.
  6. Pour batter into baking dish. Spread evenly into pan with a rubber spatula or spoon.
  7. Bake for 18 to 25 minutes (depending on the type of baking dish used, see tip above). 
  8. Cool for about 20 minutes before slicing.

Use this recipe in our Meal Planner

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Posted In
dessert Thanksgiving Recipes brownies baked goods 4th of July chocolate easy gluten-free grain-free summer valentine's day Walnuts Christmas easter recipe
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About the Author

Alissa Segersten, MS, CN

Alissa Segersten, MS, CN, is the founder of Nourishing Meals®, an online meal-planning membership with over 2000 nourishing recipes and tools to support dietary change and better health. As a functional nutritionist, professional recipe developer, and author of The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook, Nourishing Meals, and co-author of The Elimination Diet, she helps people overcome health challenges through food. A mother of five, Alissa understands the importance of creating nutrient-dense meals for the whole family. Rooted in science and deep nourishment, her work makes healthy eating accessible, empowering thousands to transform their well-being through food.

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