The Core Ingredients in Simple Mills Brownie Mix
Simple Mills prides itself on using a short, transparent list of ingredients that are both recognizable and purposeful. The box mix for the Chocolate Brownie is a prime example, built on nutrient-dense components that create a fudgy, satisfying treat without relying on conventional fillers or refined sugars.
The primary ingredients found in the Simple Mills Almond Flour Brownie Baking Mix include:
- Almond Flour: This finely ground flour, made from blanched almonds, serves as the base. It is naturally gluten-free and adds a rich, moist texture to baked goods. It also provides a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a more nutritious choice than traditional wheat flour.
- Organic Coconut Sugar: Used as a natural sweetener, coconut sugar is a less refined alternative to cane sugar. It has a lower glycemic index, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes, though it should still be consumed in moderation.
- Chocolate Chips: The mix contains real chocolate chips made from cane sugar, cocoa liquor, and cocoa butter, ensuring a rich, authentic chocolate flavor.
- Dutch Cocoa Powder: This alkalized cocoa powder provides the deep chocolate flavor and color, contributing to the brownies' fudgy texture.
- Tapioca Starch & Arrowroot: These plant-based starches act as binders and thickeners, crucial for achieving the desired texture in gluten-free baking. They help hold the brownies together without relying on gluten.
- Sea Salt: A touch of sea salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the brownies rise slightly and achieve a desirable texture.
The Role of Each Ingredient
Each component of the Simple Mills brownie mix is chosen for a specific reason beyond just flavor. The combination of almond flour and starches provides the necessary structure and moisture for a rich, fudgy result, a stark contrast to the sometimes dry texture of brownies made with only wheat flour substitutes. The use of coconut sugar offers a healthier sweetener option, while the quality chocolate chips and Dutch cocoa ensure an authentic chocolate taste. This intentional ingredient selection aligns with a growing movement towards more mindful and health-conscious baking.
A Nutritional Comparison: Simple Mills vs. Conventional Brownie Mix
When looking at brownie mixes from a nutrition diet perspective, it is important to compare what's inside. Simple Mills stands out by excluding many of the common ingredients found in conventional store-bought mixes. Below is a comparison table highlighting the key differences in ingredient lists and their nutritional implications.
| Feature | Simple Mills Almond Flour Brownie Mix | Conventional Brownie Mix (e.g., Pillsbury) | Benefits for a Nutrition Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flour | Almond Flour | Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour | Gluten-free, higher in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. |
| Sweeteners | Organic Coconut Sugar | Sugar, Corn Syrup, Artificial Flavor | Less refined, lower glycemic index than high-fructose corn syrup. |
| Fats | Cocoa Butter (in chocolate chips) | Canola and/or Soybean Oil | Avoids processed seed oils, uses cocoa butter from real chocolate. |
| Leavening | Baking Soda | Baking Soda | Standard leavening agent; similar function. |
| Flavor | Dutch Cocoa Powder, Cocoa Liquor | Cocoa Processed with Alkali, Natural and Artificial Flavor | Uses real, whole ingredients for flavor, not artificial additives. |
| Additives | None added | Not specified, but often contains extra stabilizers or flavors | Clean label, avoiding unnecessary chemicals and additives. |
Nutritional Considerations and Healthy Choices
While the ingredient list of Simple Mills brownie mix is undoubtedly cleaner, it's essential to put its nutritional profile into a broader context. One dry-mix serving contains 100 calories, with 6 grams of total fat, 13 grams of carbohydrates, and 9 grams of sugar. It also provides 2 grams of fiber and 2 grams of protein. This is a significant improvement over many conventional mixes, which are often packed with more sugar and refined carbohydrates.
However, mindful consumption is still necessary. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has flagged one of Simple Mills' soft-baked bars as an ultra-processed food due to sugar and saturated fat content, though it's important to distinguish this from the brownie mix. This highlights that even products with clean ingredients are still treats and should be enjoyed as part of an overall balanced diet. A healthy diet emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats, with sweets eaten in moderation.
How Simple Mills Fits into a Balanced Diet
For individuals with gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, or those following a grain-free diet like paleo, Simple Mills brownie mix offers a delicious and inclusive option. The use of almond flour, a nutrient-dense alternative, and less refined coconut sugar makes it a better choice for those seeking to reduce their intake of processed ingredients. By choosing Simple Mills, you can enjoy a treat while still aligning with a healthier dietary philosophy.
For a well-rounded nutrition diet, consider pairing your baked goods with other nutritious foods. Enjoy a smaller portion of the brownie alongside a glass of milk (dairy or alternative) or a side of fresh fruit to create a more balanced snack. This approach allows you to savor the taste while minimizing the impact on your overall health goals. For more healthy baking ideas using alternative flours, explore resources like the Blue Diamond Almond Flour Cookbook.
Conclusion
In summary, the ingredients in Simple Mills chocolate brownies provide a clear example of how mindful food companies are reshaping the market with cleaner, more nutritious alternatives. By using almond flour, coconut sugar, and real chocolate, the mix offers a genuinely delicious and fudgy treat that is also gluten-free and grain-free. While not a health food in itself, it represents a better choice for those who are conscious of what they consume. Incorporating products like Simple Mills into a balanced diet, along with plenty of whole foods, is key to maintaining good health and enjoying occasional indulgences without compromise.
