Defying Green-ity

So, let's just say, theoretically, that you have some chocolate bars leftover from Valentine's Day. And, continuing in this hypothetical universe, let's assume that you like to bake, but there's just so much sweet matter lying around that you can't justify it without using up something else. And then there's the issue of getting some healthiness into your diet without eliminating the chocolate.

You'll never guess what's in these. Okay, maybe you will. The idea has been circulating the food quadrant of the Internet recently.

Maybe you've heard of a leathery-skinned, green-fleshed ellipsoid called avocado? You know, the one that's been touted for its good-cholesterol qualities and generally healthful properties?

Well, those delicious nuts are mashed and smashed into this recipe. So thoroughly incorporated, in fact, that they take on a buttery, creamy, downright fudgelike texture.

This goes out to my friend Anna, who enjoys chemistry, especially {guaca}mole by Amadeo Avocad{r}o.

Fudgy Avocado Brownies (aka Greenies)

adapted from http://www.howsweeteats.com/2012/08/fudgy-avocado-brownies/
These are possibly the riches brownies I've ever had. I had my friends test them blindly--without knowing that there were avocados in them. They didn't suspect a thing. You should definitely go check out the original website: beautiful photos of the process and a witty commentary throughout make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 8 oz chocolate, primarily dark
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• Chopped up chocolate, optional

Instructions:

1) Melt chocolate in a glass bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave using low heat. 

2) Mash avocado in a large bowl. Pour in chocolate and mix thoroughly.

3) Add sugar, eggs and vanilla extract.

4) Stir together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in a small bowl. Add the dry to the wet, only mixing until combined.

5) Add oil and chocolate chips, if using. Mix together briefly and pour into a lightly greased 8x8-inch pan.

6) Bake for 30-40 minutes in a 350 degree oven.

7) Serve to your friends, tell them the truth once they've gotten a bite and enjoy their shocked faces.

Makes 6.022x10^23 brownies. Just kidding. It's about 16, depending on how generous you are.