Lowering the fat content of a brownie mix lets you can enjoy an occasional brownie while following a diet or watching your calories. Substituting part or all of the oil in a brownie mix makes them lower in fat, and leaves you feeling less guilty after having one for a treat. This healthier version may alter the texture, making them puffier and not quite as chewy, but the lower fat and calories are worth taking the time to adjust the mixture.

Read the package instructions for making the brownies to determine the amount of oil required.

Substitute one-half of the oil with no-sugar added applesauce for reduced-fat brownies, or replace the full amount of oil with applesauce for low-fat brownies.

Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to combine. Pour the batter into an oiled cake pan and bake according to the package instructions.

Determine the amount of fat and number of eggs required to make the brownie mix.

Substitute 1/2 cup of fat-free yogurt for 1/2 cup of oil and two eggs. Adjust the amount of yogurt to match as the oil and egg requirement as close as possible. For example, substitute 3/4 cup of yogurt for a mix that needs 3/4 cup of oil and three eggs. This substitution does not work for baking in a microwave, or “light” brownie mixes.

Mix the ingredients with a spoon, until combined. Pour the brownie mix into a prepared pan and bake using the package instructions.