1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp. salt
2 egg whites
1 large egg
3/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp. unsweetened applesauce
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tbsp. chopped walnuts (optional)
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa, and salt. Mix well. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites, egg, sugar, applesauce, oil, and vanilla. Stir in flour mixture until just blended; do not overmix. Pour batter into prepared pan; sprinkle with walnuts.
3. Bake until just set and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, about 25 minutes.
4. Place pan on a wire rack and cool for at least 15 minutes. Cut brownies into squares and place on a serving plate.
Variation: For slightly chewier brownies, replace the 1/2 cup of cake flour with 7 tbsp. of all-purpose flour. Sifting is not necessary. Proceed with the recipe as directed. Also, instead of walnuts, try sprinkling brownie batter with chopped pecans or almonds.