Description
Black Bean Brownies are a rich, fudgy, and healthier twist on classic brownies that use black beans to create a moist and dense texture without compromising on flavor. Naturally gluten-free and adaptable for vegan or dairy-free diets, these brownies are packed with fiber and protein, making them a guilt-free indulgence perfect for dessert or a protein-packed snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ⅓ to ½ cup sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar)
- 2 large eggs or 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal + 6 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon, chili powder, or espresso powder (optional spices)
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (optional)
- Swirl of peanut butter or caramel drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Black Beans: Drain and rinse canned black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canned flavor—this ensures a clean, fresh base for the batter.
- Blend the Wet Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the black beans, eggs (or flax eggs), vanilla extract, and sweetener. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, with no bean chunks remaining.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or any additional flavor boosters of your choice to elevate the brownies.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8 inch baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares to help set their fudgy consistency perfectly.
Notes
- Use fresh, well-rinsed canned black beans to avoid any canned flavor.
- Do not overmix dry ingredients to keep brownies soft and tender.
- Watch the baking time closely to prevent drying out due to their moist texture.
- A pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor without adding bitterness.
- Cool brownies completely before slicing for the best texture and ease of cutting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (of 12)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Black Bean Brownies, gluten-free brownies, healthy brownies, vegan brownies, protein brownies, chocolate dessert