Single-Serving Healthy Chocolate Brownie with Crispy Top

1.Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease and line a very small square or round baking dish/ramekin suitable for a single serving (approx. 7x7cm or equivalent volume).

2.In a very small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (or coconut oil). Remove from heat and immediately stir in the brown sugar (or sweetener) until well combined.

3.Whisk in the egg (or yolk) vigorously until combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix.

4.In a tiny separate bowl, sift and mix the dry ingredients: whey protein, cocoa powder, oat flour, baking powder, and salt.

5.Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk mixture. Mix gently with a small spatula only until the flour streaks disappear. Do not overmix to ensure the crust forms.

6.If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

7.Pour the dense batter into the prepared single-serving dish and spread it evenly.

8.Bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The center should feel set, but still slightly fudgy when lightly touched (the toothpick test should yield moist crumbs, not raw batter).

9.Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the dish on a wire rack before eating. Cooling is crucial for achieving the dense, crispy-topped texture.

10.Serve directly from the dish.