The Best Gluten Free Brownie Mix
Chocolately, moist, chewy edges, and just plain delicious. Would you believe I was talking about gluten free brownies? Well I am.
Many people are claiming to feel better once switching to a gluten free diet, whether they have been diagnosed with Celiac disease or not. So, I wanted to see what options were out there for those wanting or needing to live gluten free. One of my first discoveries was at Trader Joe’s. Known for great products with good prices, I should not have been surprised that I found this little gem in their aisles. The mix is called “Trader Joe’s Gluten Free Brownie baking mix [sic].”
Some highlights of the brownie mix, on top of being gluten free, are the mix is free of wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, milk and dairy, soy and corn. There are no artificial colors or flavors or preservatives. It is also low in sodium. Also, there are some practical benefits. The mix is bagged and not boxed. Actually, it is double bagged. The outer bag is made of paper, and the inner bag is made of plastic and actually contains the mix. This is extremely practical, as once the mix is out of the bag, you can flatten the outer bag which has the directions an lay it on the counter top or easily prop it up as you follow the directions.
The side panel of the bag, yes a bag not a box, provides a recipe for chocolate chip cookies. The only downside for making the cookies is that the recipe requires xanthan gum, which Trader Joe’s does not carry. However, xanthan gum can be found at health stores like Big Bear Natural Foods and Whole Foods or online. All the other ingredients for making the cookies are standard. I have not made the cookies from the mix yet. But when I do, I will be sure to report the anticipated goodness.
So back to the brownies. One of the best aspects of the mix is that it only requires three additional ingredients: one egg, vegetable oil, and water. If the oil is a turn off for you, Trader Joe’s recommends replacing the vegetable oil with applesauce for a lower fat version. Another great aspect about this mix is that it is not temperamental, so chocolate chips, nuts, or other ingredients you may like can be added to suit your taste.
With all that said, I highly recommend Trader Joe’s gluten free brownie mix. It is so good that people not on gluten free diets should try it because it tastes better than brownies made with gluten products.
