The Flourless Brownie: My “Pocket Snack” for At-Home or High Altitude Adventures

There is a specific kind of hunger that hits when you’re three miles into a cross-country ski loop, or still two hours out from dinner with a stack of papers to grade. 

It’s that feeling of if I don't eat right now, I’m going to lose all my momentum.

For years, I’ve relied on packaged protein bars. I still enjoy them occasionally, but lately, I’ve wanted to see if I could replicate that convenience using whole ingredients that taste good and keep me going.

By swapping flour and sugar for cashews, eggs, and maple syrup, we’re changing the fuel source.

  • Healthy Fats & Protein: The cashews and eggs provide a dense base of healthy fats and protein. This slows down the absorption of sugar.

  • Low-Glycemic Energy: Maple syrup contains trace minerals like manganese and zinc. While it’s still sugar, it offers a steadier release of energy than the refined stuff.

  • The Result: A “slow burn” that keeps you fueled through the back half of your ski—or a long afternoon of scrubbing mud off the floor.

They’re the ultimate adventure- and productivity-extender.

Flourless Brownies

Ingredients:

2 cups cashew butter OR 4 cups cashews (I buy raw pieces in bulk to save money!)

2 eggs

1¼ cups maple syrup

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup cacao powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

Change it up:

Add 1 teaspoon mint extract OR

Add 1 tablespoon ground ginger (like a warm hug) OR

Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before baking (my favorite)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

  2. Grind: In the bowl of a food processor, add the cashews and grind until they ball up. (If using store-bought cashew butter, just toss it straight in).

  3. Make it creamy: Add the maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla. Blend until super smooth.

  4. Time for chocolate: Add cacao, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined.

  5. Bake: Pour batter into an 8x8-inch pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30–35 minutes.

  6. Slice: Once cool, slice into squares.

  7. Pro Tip: Wrap them individually in beeswax wrap or parchment paper and keep a stash in the freezer. They are delicious whether frozen or thawed!

    Recipe inspired by Sweet Laurel.

    Tag us in your photos when (not if!) you make these. I love seeing where these little gems take you.

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