(NC) Looking for a dessert that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent? Say hello to these sweet potato brownies—they’re moist, chewy and packed with surprising nutritious benefits that can help manage arthritis symptoms.

Bright-coloured vegetables like sweet potatoes are bursting with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and keep your gut bacteria happy. Cocoa, another rich source of antioxidants, brings a deliciously deep flavour and flavanols that could help reduce blood pressure and aid in blood flow. Who knew a brownie could double as a mini health boost?

Sweet Potato Brownies

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30-40 minutes
Serves: 8

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 ml) sweet potato puree (about 3 to 4 small sweet potatoes)
• ½ cup (125 ml) natural peanut butter
• 1/3 cup (125 mL) maple syrup
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla
• 1/3 cup (160 ml) whole wheat flour
• ½ cup (125 ml) cocoa powder
• 1 tsp (5 ml) baking powder
• ¼ tsp (1 ml) salt
• 1/3 cup (160 ml) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a knife and microwave for 7 to 10 minutes on high until soft. Set aside and let them cool down to room temperature. Slice them in half and scoop out the flesh. Blend in a food processor or blender until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, mix sweet potato puree, peanut butter, maple syrup, eggs and vanilla until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Spoon the batter into your lined baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Once cool, slice and serve.

Tips for the ultimate brownie experience:

• Short on time? Swap the sweet potato for 1 cup of canned 100 per cent pure pumpkin puree.
• Want more crunch? Add ½ cup of chopped nuts for additional protein, fibre and healthy fats.
• Need to boost your fibre? Add a few tablespoons of chia seeds to the batter for additional soluble fibre.
• Peanut allergy? Substitute peanut butter with almond butter, soy butter or sunflower butter.

Find more arthritis-friendly recipes from Arthritis Society Canada at arthritis.ca/living-well.