Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Grease your 8x8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, rolled oats or almond flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Add almond butter and maple syrup or honey to the dry mixture, folding until a thick batter forms. Add chocolate chips if desired.
Step 5: Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are firm and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Step 7: Allow brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack before cutting.