Homemade Gluten-Free Brownie Mix: Your Ultimate Allergy-Friendly Dessert Solution

One of the most thoughtful gifts you can give—either to a loved one or yourself—is a pre-made brownie mix, ready to transform into rich, fudgy brownies the moment a chocolate craving strikes. This exceptional homemade gluten-free brownie mix offers incredible convenience and caters to various dietary needs. It’s naturally gluten-free, with easy options to make it dairy-free and even soy-free, ensuring a delicious indulgence for almost everyone. Forget bland, crumbly store-bought alternatives; this mix guarantees thick, decadent brownies with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet treat right from your kitchen.

This post contains affiliate links.

Why This Homemade Gluten-Free Brownie Mix is a Game Changer

Creating your own brownie mix at home offers numerous advantages, especially for those managing food allergies or simply seeking healthier, more controlled ingredients. This homemade gluten-free brownie mix stands out for its flexibility, rich flavor, and ease of preparation. Here’s why it’s destined to become your go-to recipe:

• Complete Ingredient Control: When you craft your own mix, you have full transparency and control over every ingredient. This means no hidden preservatives, unnecessary fillers, or artificial flavors often found in commercial mixes. You decide what goes in, ensuring purity and peace of mind, particularly crucial for individuals with strict dietary requirements.
• Effortless Baking: Once the mix is prepared, baking becomes incredibly simple. You only need to add a few wet ingredients – butter (or dairy-free butter), eggs, and vanilla extract – when you’re ready to bake. This convenience is perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, transforming a simple mix into warm, freshly baked brownies in minutes.
• Generous Yield: Unlike many gluten-free recipes that produce smaller batches, this mix is designed to fill a standard 13×9 inch baking pan. This makes it ideal for family gatherings, parties, or simply ensuring you have enough delicious brownies to last a few days.
• Versatile Gifting Options: This mix can easily be divided into two smaller portions, each perfect for an 8×8 inch pan. This flexibility allows you to make two thoughtful gifts – perhaps one for a friend and one for a neighbor. It’s an excellent choice for holiday presents, birthday surprises, or a thoughtful “just because” gesture. Grandparents who love to bake with their grandkids but are new to gluten-free baking will especially appreciate this easy-to-use mix.
• Prepare Ahead for Convenience: Make a batch of this dry mix ahead of time and store it in your pantry. This way, when that undeniable chocolate craving hits, or you need a quick dessert, you’re not starting from scratch. It saves time and mental energy, making spontaneous baking a joyful experience rather than a chore.
• Unforgettable Rich & Fudgy Texture: These brownies are exceptionally thick, substantial, and wonderfully fudgy. The secret lies in using a combination of high-quality cocoa powder and melted chocolate chips, delivering a deep, complex chocolate flavor. Even my mother, who has no food allergies, raved, “It was one of the best brownies I’ve had in a long time.” This testament speaks volumes about their incredible taste and texture.
• Superior Moisture and Tenderness: The recipe uniquely combines both white and brown sugar. This blend is key to achieving an unparalleled level of moisture and tenderness in the brownies, contributing to their luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth quality that truly sets them apart.

The Gluten-Free Secret: Choosing the Right Flour for Your Brownie Mix

The foundation of any great gluten-free baked good is, naturally, the gluten-free flour. This brownie mix is specifically formulated to be entirely gluten-free, relying on certified gluten-free flour blends. While many ingredients are inherently gluten-free, it’s paramount to develop a habit of reading every single label of every product you use. Manufacturers can change recipes without notice, or sometimes inadvertently introduce cross-contamination, making vigilance crucial for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities. Always double-check to ensure no gluten or wheat-containing ingredients have been “snuck in.”

What Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Should I Use for This Brownie Mix?

The choice of gluten-free flour blend can significantly impact the final texture of your brownies. For this particular recipe, I highly recommend using Walmart’s Great Value All Purpose Gluten-Free Flour. I’ve found it to be an excellent, budget-friendly alternative that performs very similarly to King Arthur’s 1:1 Baking Blend. Both of these brands consistently deliver reliable results in terms of texture and moisture. It’s generally best to stick to these two brands or similar high-quality, pre-mixed blends, as different brands use varying combinations of grains and starches, which can drastically alter the outcome of your baked goods. Experimenting with other blends without careful consideration might lead to brownies that are too dry, crumbly, or have an off-texture.

Making it Dairy-Free: Simple Swaps for Everyone

Achieving a dairy-free brownie from this mix is incredibly straightforward, thanks to the flexibility of the recipe. The dairy-free aspect largely depends on the choices made when baking the brownies from the mix. You, or the lucky recipient of your gift, will need to select dairy-free alternatives for two key ingredients: butter and chocolate chips.

For a full recipe, you’ll need 2.5 sticks of butter (or 10 tablespoons for a halved recipe). Both regular dairy butter and plant-based dairy-free butter work wonderfully. My personal preference for a dairy-free option is Country Crock Plant-Based Butter with Olive Oil, which offers a rich flavor and excellent texture. However, most reputable dairy-free butter sticks should yield great results. When selecting, just ensure it’s a stick butter for proper measurement and baking consistency.

The other crucial component for dairy-free brownies is the chocolate chips. You can opt for traditional semi-sweet chocolate chips if dairy isn’t a concern, or choose from a variety of excellent dairy-free chocolate chips available on the market. Some highly recommended brands include Enjoy Life, Ghirardelli Dairy-Free, or Endangered Species Chocolate Premium Oat Milk Baking Chips 55% Cocoa. I am currently enjoying the Endangered Species chips for their deep flavor. Remember, always check the labels to confirm they meet your specific dairy-free requirements. For an even more indulgent dairy-free chocolate experience, consider trying this easy dairy-free mousse – it’s a fantastic way to satisfy chocolate cravings without any dairy.

*Please be aware that some dairy-free chocolate chips may contain soy. If you also need to avoid soy, carefully check the ingredient list before purchasing.

Navigating Soy Allergies: Your Soy-Free Brownie Guide

Making this brownie mix entirely soy-free depends on the specific level of your soy allergy. It’s important to understand that many individuals with a soy allergy can safely tolerate soy lecithin, a common ingredient found in numerous processed foods and dairy-free alternatives. This is a nuanced area, and I strongly advise consulting with your individual healthcare provider or allergist to determine if soy lecithin is safe for you. If you discover that you can tolerate it, this significantly broadens your options for dairy-free butter and chocolate chips, making the process much simpler.

However, if your soy allergy is severe or you cannot tolerate soy lecithin, careful selection of ingredients is paramount. For soy-free butter, I highly recommend Earth Balance Soy-Free Sticks. They offer a great texture and flavor profile suitable for baking. When it comes to soy-free chocolate chips, Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips are an excellent choice. They offer both rice milk and dark chocolate varieties, so you can pick based on how rich and dark you prefer your brownies. Always scrutinize ingredient labels to ensure no soy in any form, including lecithin, is present in your chosen products.

Directions for Baking Your Perfect Brownies

When you’re ready to turn your homemade gluten-free brownie mix into a warm, fudgy dessert, you’ll need a few additional wet ingredients. It’s vital to include clear baking instructions with your mix, especially if you’re gifting it. You can print these directions on a decorative card to tie onto a jar, use a sticker label for a bag, or even create a custom design with tools like Canva. This ensures the recipient has all the information they need to bake perfect brownies every time.

Full Batch Recipe Instructions (for a 13×9 inch pan):

Additional ingredients you’ll need for a full batch:

• 20 Tablespoons of butter (dairy or dairy-free)
• 4 large eggs + 2 egg yolks
• 1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch rectangular baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the 20 Tablespoons (which is 2.5 sticks) of butter (use dairy or dairy-free according to your preference) and the chocolate chips provided in the mix. Melt these in your microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate chips are completely melted and smooth.
3. Once the chocolate and butter mixture is ready, add the 4 large eggs and 2 extra egg yolks to the bowl. Whisk vigorously until the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Stir in the 1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract.
5. Carefully pour the entire dry brownie mix into the wet ingredients. Stir well using a sturdy spoon or spatula. The batter will be quite thick, so ensure you scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to incorporate all dry ingredients thoroughly, leaving no pockets of flour.
6. Evenly spread the thick brownie batter into your prepared 13×9 inch baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to ensure it’s distributed flat.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges are set, and the middle reaches your desired level of fudginess. Some prefer a slightly gooier center, while others like it more firm, so adjust baking time by a minute or two as per your preference.
8. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into them. This is crucial for achieving clean cuts and ensuring the fudgy texture sets properly.
9. Store any leftover brownies at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Halved Batch Recipe Instructions (for an 8×8 inch pan):

If you’ve split your mix or prefer a smaller batch, these instructions are for you:

• 10 Tablespoons of butter (dairy or dairy-free)
• 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
• 1/2 Tablespoon of vanilla extract

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch rectangular baking pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, add 10 Tablespoons of butter (dairy or dairy-free) and the chocolate chips from your halved mix. Melt in your microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each set until the chocolate chips are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add 2 large eggs and 1 egg yolk to the melted butter and chocolate. Whisk vigorously until well combined.
4. Stir in 1/2 Tablespoon of vanilla extract.
5. Pour the dry brownie mix (halved portion) into the wet ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all dry ingredients are incorporated and no lumps remain. The batter will be very thick, so take your time to mix it well, scraping the sides and bottom.
6. Spread the batter evenly into your greased 8×8 inch pan.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is done to your preference for fudginess.
8. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
9. Store covered tightly at room temperature.

Packaging and Gifting Your Homemade Brownie Mix

Presenting your homemade gluten-free brownie mix beautifully enhances its appeal, whether it’s a gift or for your own pantry. Thoughtful packaging also ensures all components are easily accessible and instructions are never misplaced. If you opt for a sturdy Ziploc bag, I recommend placing the chocolate chips in a separate, smaller baggie. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom and makes them easy to retrieve when it’s time for melting. If you choose an elegant glass jar, layer the ingredients carefully and place the chocolate chips on top, as shown in the photos, for both aesthetic appeal and practicality.

When selecting a glass jar, ensure it’s large enough to comfortably hold the entire mix. The full recipe for this brownie mix weighs a little over 27 ounces. Therefore, a gallon-sized Ziploc bag is often a more practical choice for the full amount, or you can simply halve the recipe to fit into smaller, more decorative jars, making two lovely gifts. Remember, the most important part of packaging is to include the baking directions clearly! A small card tied with twine or a custom label makes this gift complete and ensures a smooth baking experience for the recipient. Consider adding a small note about recommended butter and chocolate chip brands, especially if they need to be dairy-free or soy-free.

!!AN IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT GIFTING ALLERGY-FRIENDLY ITEMS!!

If you don’t personally live with food allergies but are preparing this homemade gluten-free brownie mix as a thoughtful gift for someone who does, you are truly amazing! It shows incredible kindness and effort to seek out and prepare something safe for their specific dietary needs. This gesture is deeply appreciated by those of us navigating the complexities of food allergies.

However, it’s crucial to understand that individuals with food allergies may still feel a degree of apprehension about consuming homemade gifts, even from the most well-meaning friends. This isn’t a reflection of distrust in you, but rather a deeply ingrained need to verify ingredients and potential cross-contact, which can be life-threatening. They weren’t present during the preparation process to personally confirm every ingredient label or observe potential cross-contamination risks in your kitchen.

One of the most helpful things you can do to ease their mind is to take clear pictures of every single ingredient label you used in the mix. Alternatively, simply provide a list of the exact brands you chose for each component. This allows the recipient to independently review the ingredients and verify their safety against their specific allergies. We, who manage allergies daily, understand that even we can make mistakes. We recognize that your eyes may not be as trained as ours to spot obscure allergens or warning labels, and our primary goal is always to protect our health. Please know that this precaution has absolutely nothing to do with your feelings, and we never wish to cause offense. Your understanding in this matter means the world to us.

Furthermore, meticulous attention to cross-contamination is vital. Before preparing the mix, ensure all spatulas, whisks, measuring cups, bowls, and spoons are freshly washed with hot soap and water. Never use utensils that have touched unsafe ingredients. Some individuals with severe allergies even avoid wooden cutting boards or spoons, as porous materials can potentially harbor allergen residues in their cracks and pores. When in doubt, new or dedicated allergy-safe equipment is always the safest choice.

Ultimately, when it comes to preparing food for someone with allergies, over-communication is always better than under-communication. Reach out to your friend in advance and ask them about their specific preferences for food preparation. Inquire about how they’d like the mix prepared and what you can do to put their mind at ease. They will undoubtedly have their own set of rules and can guide you on how to safely cook for them. They will be incredibly touched by your thoughtfulness and openness to their feedback, reinforcing your bond and showing genuine care.

Exploring More Allergy-Friendly Chocolate Delights

If you’ve fallen in love with this gluten-free brownie mix, you’re in for a treat! In my opinion, chocolate is truly the fountain of life, and I’m thrilled to share a wide array of delicious, allergy-friendly chocolate recipes. Whether you’re craving more brownies or looking to expand your dessert repertoire, I’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out my comprehensive recipe index for the full selection of delightful treats. In the meantime, here are a few personal favorites that I highly recommend for any chocolate lover seeking safe and delicious options:

Need Egg-Free or Vegan Brownies? I’ve Got You Covered!

Yes, absolutely! If your dietary needs extend beyond just gluten and dairy, and you require egg-free or even fully vegan brownies, I have the perfect solution. Check out this amazing gluten-free vegan brownie recipe here. It’s designed to deliver incredible flavor and texture without any animal products, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Watch the Brownie Mix Video!

For a visual guide on how to prepare this fantastic homemade gluten-free brownie mix, I’ve created a helpful video. It should auto-populate on this page. If it doesn’t appear immediately, you can find it embedded at the bottom of the recipe card below. Alternatively, feel free to visit my YouTube channel to watch it directly (and while you’re there, please consider subscribing for more allergy-friendly recipes and tips!).

Discover More Gluten-Free Chocolate Baked Goods

Beyond brownies, my kitchen is a haven for chocolate lovers navigating allergies. Explore other sensational treats like my triple chocolate pie, a showstopper for any occasion. For something truly elegant, try the rich and sophisticated flourless chocolate torte. If you prefer no-bake desserts, my no-bake vegan chocolate cheesecake is incredibly creamy and satisfying. Don’t miss out on fun treats like Oreo cupcakes or my indulgent S’mores brownie bars. And for classic cookie cravings, my double chocolate cookies are simply irresistible. Each recipe is crafted with care to ensure they are not only allergy-friendly but also incredibly delicious.

Homemade Gluten-Free Brownie Mix (with Dairy-Free Option)

Yield:
13×9 pan of brownies

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
15 minutes

One of the best presents you can either give to someone, or yourself, is a pre-made brownie mix to use when the craving strikes. Gluten-free, with a dairy-free option too, this brownie mix is a quick and easy way to satisfy that chocolate craving. Rich, thick brownies are a breeze when you start with this homemade mix. This homemade brownie mix is free of: wheat, gluten, fish, shellfish, peanut, tree nuts and sesame, making it free of 7/9 top allergens—with dairy-free and soy-free options readily available when prepared.

Ingredients for the Dry Mix

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 and 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and 1/2 cups gluten-free all purpose flour, with xanthan gum included
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (ensure dairy-free if needed)

Instructions for Preparing the Mix

1. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined and lump-free.
2. To measure the gluten-free flour accurately, gently spoon it into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge or knife. Avoid packing or scooping the flour directly from the bag, as this can result in too much flour, leading to dry brownies. Add the measured gluten-free flour to the mixing bowl and whisk everything together until thoroughly combined and there are no visible lumps.
3. If you plan to store or gift the mix in a glass jar, carefully pour the prepared dry mix into the jar, then gently place the chocolate chips on top. A rolled-up piece of paper or a kitchen funnel can be very helpful for neat transfer.
4. Alternatively, if you’re using a large airtight bag for storage or gifting, place the entire dry mix into the bag. For convenience when baking, put the chocolate chips into a separate, smaller bag and enclose it within the larger bag containing the dry mix. This makes them easy to find and melt when it’s time to bake.
5. Store the homemade brownie mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months to maintain freshness.
6. When you are ready to bake these delicious brownies, please refer to the detailed wet ingredient additions and baking instructions provided above the recipe card for either a full or halved batch.
7. *Important Note: This recipe yields a full 13×9 inch pan of brownies. If you wish to make two smaller gifts or batches, you can easily split this dry mix in half to create two separate mixes, each suitable for an 8×8 inch pan.

Notes

*Our family’s allergies are severe and re-tested frequently. We strictly adhere to what’s stated on product labels and do not contact companies for ingredient derivation details or potential cross-contact information. If your allergies necessitate these extra precautions, please perform your own thorough research. I cannot guarantee the safety of any ingredient; only you can do that. I simply share what works safely for our family.

**If you are preparing this mix for someone with food allergies and do not have allergies yourself, I HIGHLY recommend discussing with them which specific brands and ingredients you plan to use. Also, make sure to openly communicate about your kitchen’s cross-contamination procedures. This transparency is crucial for their safety and comfort.

This recipe is adapted from my original gluten-free dairy-free brownie recipe.

Nutrition Information (Dry Mix Only):

Yield: 20 servings (per 13×9 pan)
Serving Size: 1 (dry mix portion)

Approximate Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 118Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 109mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 1gSugar: 19gProtein: 1g

Note: This nutrition information is calculated for the dry mix only, per serving, and does not include added ingredients like butter, eggs, or vanilla needed for baking the completed brownies.