Chocolate Tahini Brownies

Name: Chocolate Tahini Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup tahini; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Timeless Desserts

I love making Chocolate Tahini Brownies because they combine rich chocolate flavor with the unique nuttiness of tahini. These brownies are not just indulgent; they are also surprisingly easy to prepare. Using tahini instead of butter adds a creamy texture while keeping them dairy-free. With a perfect balance of sweetness and depth, these brownies quickly became a go-to for dessert cravings. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a midnight snack with a glass of milk.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:01:35.683Z

When I first experimented with tahini in my brownies, I was a bit wary. Would it overpower the chocolate or create a strange texture? To my delight, the result was an incredibly moist and fudgy brownie that harmonized beautifully with the deep chocolate flavor. The tahini not only adds richness but also a hint of nuttiness that elevates the overall taste.

I’ve also found that adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking enhances the chocolate's sweetness and balances out the richness of the tahini. Every bite leaves me craving just one more. These brownies are definitely a must-try for a unique twist on a classic treat!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy tahini
Decadent texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Easily made in one bowl for quick cleanup

The Role of Tahini

Tahini plays a transformative role in these brownies, providing not only a rich, creamy texture but also a unique flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate. Unlike butter, tahini adds a nuttiness that complements the cocoa beautifully. If you cannot find tahini or need a substitute, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

In addition to its taste, tahini contributes to the moistness of the brownies. It helps to bind the ingredients, creating a fudgy texture that makes these brownies so indulgent. When mixing, make sure the tahini is well-creamed with the sugar to avoid clumping and to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the batter.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect brownie texture can be a fine balance between underbaking and overbaking. For these Chocolate Tahini Brownies, aim for 25 minutes in the oven. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes; they should have a slight jiggle in the center when you take them out. They will continue cooking as they cool, resulting in a fudgy interior once set.

When preparing to cut the brownies, let them rest in the pan for at least 10 minutes post-baking. This cooling period allows the edges to firm up, making them easier to slice without falling apart. A sharp knife dipped in hot water can help create clean cuts for perfect squares—just wipe it clean between cuts for the best results!

Storage and Variations

If you're planning to make these brownies ahead of time, they store beautifully at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months, making them a perfect on-the-go treat—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

You can also experiment with adding flavor variations to these brownies. Nuts, such as crushed walnuts or pecans, can enhance the texture and add an extra layer of flavor. If you want a hint of something special, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter to amplify the chocolate's richness.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup tahini
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the tahini and brown sugar, mixing until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and stir until fully incorporated.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Add the Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding chopped nuts or a swirl of your favorite nut butter on top of the brownie batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence. The cold ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm, fudgy brownies, creating a satisfying dessert experience. Drizzling with a bit of melted chocolate or caramel sauce can elevate it even further.

For a more decadent presentation, top each brownie square with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving. This not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds a pleasant crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the brownies. Serve them at gatherings, and watch how quickly they disappear!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out too dry, this could be a sign of overbaking. Use the toothpick test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. If they do end up overbaked, consider serving them with a warm chocolate sauce to add moisture.

Alternatively, if your brownies appear too gooey and fall apart when cutting, they may need more baking time. Each oven differs, so use your visual cues as a guide. You can also try refrigerating the brownies for a short period after baking; this can help them set better for slicing.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe is simple if you want to make a larger batch. To double, simply use a 9x13 inch baking pan and ensure to adjust the baking time, checking for doneness a little earlier to avoid overcooking.

For smaller portions, you can halve the ingredient amounts and bake in a smaller pan, like a 5x5 inch. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may change significantly with smaller quantities, typically needing about 15-20 minutes in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute tahini with almond or peanut butter for a different flavor.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

To make these brownies gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

→ Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce to make them vegan.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them.