There’s a whimsical charm that comes with preparing treats for Halloween, and this year, I’m embracing it with these delightful Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies. Combining the rich essence of chocolate shortbread, luxurious brownie texture, and a playful ghostly decoration, this recipe is a celebration of all things chocolate without any dairy or eggs. Not only do these scrumptious brownies offer a fun twist that’ll impress both kids and adults alike, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute festive gatherings. Plus, the creamy chocolate ganache elevates each bite to pure bliss. Ready to create a spooky sensation that satisfies every chocolate lover’s craving? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why Will You Love These Brownies?

Decadent Indulgence: Rich chocolate layers and creamy ganache combine for an irresistible treat that feels incredibly luxurious.

Whimsical Design: Adorable white chocolate ghosts make these brownies not only tasty but also a fun centerpiece for your Halloween festivities.

Quick to Prepare: Simple steps mean you can whip these up in no time, perfect for any last-minute gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Vegan-Friendly: No dairy or eggs here, yet they deliver the deliciousness that everyone loves, making them perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for sharing at parties, these brownies are sure to impress friends and family alike with their flavor and presentation.

Looking for more vegan treats? Check out my Vegan Pecan Pie for another crowd favorite!

Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies Ingredients

For the Shortbread Layer

Plain/All-Purpose Flour (240g) – Provides structure to the shortbread and brownie layers.
Cocoa Powder (40g) – Adds deep chocolate flavor to the shortbread base.
Caster Sugar (200g) – Sweetens the shortbread layer; dissolves easily in batter, yielding a smoother texture.
Dairy-Free Butter (170g) – Creates a rich, buttery texture; substitute with plant-based butter like Naturli or Flora.

For the Brownie Layer

Cocoa Powder (60g) – Enhances the deep chocolate flavor in the brownie layer.
Caster Sugar (220g) – Sweetens both layers; use regular granulated sugar if caster sugar is unavailable.
Aquafaba (120ml) – Acts as an egg replacement for moisture and fluffiness without dairy or eggs.
Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate (170g) – The star of the brownies; melted for a luscious, fudgy base.

For the Ganache

Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate (130g) – Creates a glossy ganache that adds richness to the brownies.
Dairy-Free Cream (100g) – Necessary for a smooth and creamy ganache; substitutes include coconut cream or any vegan cream.

For Decoration

Dairy-Free White Chocolate Chips (20g) – Adds a cute touch for ghostly decorations; any vegan white chocolate can be used.
Dairy-Free White Chocolate Chips (50g) – Reserved for piping ghost shapes and fun designs on the ganache.

These Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies are perfect for satisfying cravings for something decadent while keeping it dairy and egg-free!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan). While it warms up, line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This ensures your Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Make Shortbread
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the plain flour, 40g of cocoa powder, and 200g of caster sugar. Next, rub in 170g of cold dairy-free butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Once combined, press the dough firmly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until slightly puffed and set.

Step 3: Prepare Brownie Batter
For the brownie layer, set up a bain-marie and melt 170g of dairy-free dark chocolate along with the remaining 170g of dairy-free butter. Meanwhile, in another bowl, whip 120ml of aquafaba and 220g of caster sugar until thick and fluffy. This aeration is key for a rich texture in your Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Once the chocolate has melted, gently fold it into the whipped aquafaba mixture. Sift in 60g of cocoa powder, along with the flour left in the bowl, creating a smooth batter. Stir in dairy-free chocolate chips, ensuring each scoop is beautifully rich, and pour the mixture over the cooled shortbread layer.

Step 5: Bake Brownies
Place the baking pan back into the oven and bake the brownies for 30-35 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. This creates that fudgy texture you crave in your Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies.

Step 6: Prepare Ganache
While your brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack, melt 130g of dairy-free dark chocolate together with 100g of dairy-free cream over a gentle heat. Mix until smooth and glossy, creating a luscious ganache. Once ready, spread it generously over the cooled brownies, allowing it to cascade beautifully.

Step 7: Decorate
To add some festive flair, melt 50g of dairy-free white chocolate and pipe ghost shapes with a piping bag or onto baking parchment. Once piped, attach these playful decorations onto the ganache, giving your Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies that spooky Halloween touch. Allow them to set in the fridge for 1-2 hours to firm up.

Step 8: Serve
Lift the brownies out of the baking pan using the overhanging parchment paper. Carefully slice them into squares, showcasing the decadent layers. Place on a serving plate and enjoy sharing these delightful, homemade Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies

Whip it Right: Ensure the aquafaba is whipped to a ribbon-like texture; this adds airiness and moisture for fudgy brownies.
Dough Handling: Dust your fingers with flour while handling the shortbread dough to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth press into the pan.
Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before slicing; this maintains moisture and chewiness for those delectable Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the brownies during the last few minutes of baking; overbaking can lead to dry brownies, so pull them out when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Ganache Tips: For a shinier finish, make sure your ganache is mixed until fully smooth; heat gently to avoid burning the chocolate.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies

Room Temperature: Enjoy these brownies fresh for up to 2 days stored in an airtight container. Keep them cool and dry to maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: To prolong freshness, store brownies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy thawing and enjoyment later.
Reheating: Let frozen brownies thaw at room temperature, or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste in your Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies.

What to Serve with Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies

Experience a delightful spread that enhances the rich chocolatey goodness of these brownies, elevating your dessert experience even further.

Dairy-Free Ice Cream: Creamy, cool, and scooped on top, this is a luscious pairing that adds delightful contrast to the fudgy brownies.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries bring a refreshing acidity that beautifully balances the decadent chocolate flavor, brightening each bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this tropical touch adds sweetness and a hint of coconut, making your dessert finish feel dreamy and indulgent.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For chocolate enthusiasts, a rich drizzle over the top intensifies the cocoa experience, turning each brownie square into a chocolate lover’s paradise.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves bring an aromatic element that refreshes the palate, adding an herbal twist to your chocolate treat.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, providing a cozy warmth that complements every bite, perfect for an after-dinner treat.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai create a wonderful contrast to the sweet brownies, making for a comforting pairing that feels festive.
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Sauce: Drizzling over for a seasonal touch, this sauce adds a delicious pumpkin spice flavor that’s perfect for Halloween gatherings.
Vegan Hot Chocolate: Embrace the cozy vibes with a rich vegan hot cocoa; it’s a chocolatey hug that’ll tie everything together perfectly!

Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these brownies and make them your own!

Minty Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing twist. The mint flavor pairs wonderfully with rich chocolate!
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie layer for extra crunch and texture. A nutty flavor can elevate that fudgy experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. You can still enjoy those delectable layers without any worries!
Extra Chocolate: For true chocolate lovers, mix and match with dairy-free chocolate chips, such as dark or milk-style, to deepen the chocolate flavor. No one ever says no to more chocolate!
Spicy Kick: A hint of cayenne pepper or cinnamon in the brownie layer can provide a surprising heat that enhances the chocolate! Start with a small pinch to find that perfect balance.
Fruity Flavor: Toss in some chopped ripe bananas or pureed pumpkin to the brownie mixture for added moisture and a hint of natural sweetness. It can add a fantastic depth!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some vegan caramel sauce over the cooled brownies before slicing. This will take your spooky treats to an enticing new level!
Serving Suggestion: Pair your brownies with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or some whipped coconut cream for an indulgent dessert. Creamy accompaniments will balance the richness of the brownies beautifully.

These Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies leave room for your imagination! If you’re in the mood for more delicious vegan treasures, consider trying my Apple Brownies Moist or Chocolate Chip Cheesecake for more scrumptious options!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy rich, chocolatey indulgence without the last-minute rush! You can make the shortbread base up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can melt the dark chocolate and prepare the brownie batter up to 8 hours ahead; just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the chilled brownie batter over the pre-baked shortbread and bake as directed. To maintain the brownies’ fudgy texture, allow them to cool completely before applying the ganache and decorating with chocolate ghosts. These steps ensure your Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies are just as delicious and perfectly festive when the time comes to enjoy them!

Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, choose high-quality dairy-free dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for a rich taste. Look for aquafaba that’s fresh and free from any residual chickpea flavor; canned chickpeas yield great results. Ensure your dairy-free butter is cold, as this will give your shortbread that lovely crumbly texture.

How should I store my Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies?
The best way to keep these delicious brownies fresh is to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay perfect for about 3 to 4 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Just remember, they taste even better when allowed to rest a bit!

Can I freeze my Vegan Triple Chocolate Shortbread Brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the brownies into squares first, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

What if my brownie batter seems too dry?
Very! If you notice your batter feels dry, you might have over-measured the flour. To fix this, try adding a tablespoon of almond milk or any dairy-free milk to the batter until you reach a desired consistency. This will help ensure you achieve that fudgy texture.

Are these brownies safe for people with nut allergies?
I often make these brownies with safety in mind, but be cautious! The recipe itself is nut-free, but always check the labels on your ingredients, particularly chocolate and dairy-free butter, for any potential cross-contamination. If you’re serving guests with allergies, consider substituting dairy-free butter with a safe alternative like coconut oil.

Can I make substitutions in this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re looking to alter the flavors, feel free to swap the dairy-free dark chocolate for another type of dairy-free chocolate or even add in mint or peanut butter chips instead. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; just make sure it’s suitable for baking.