Pin A rich, fudgy brownie recipe that swaps flour for black beans, creating a moist, chocolatey treat with a protein boost. This dessert is delicious, budget-friendly, and perfect for a healthier option that doesn't skimp on flavor.
I first made these brownies for my friends who couldn't eat gluten. We were all surprised at how fudgy and rich the result was, and the secret ingredient stayed hidden until I spilled the beans.
Ingredients
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), drained and rinsed
- Eggs: 2 large
- Neutral oil: ⅓ cup (80 ml), e.g. canola or sunflower
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100 g)
- Maple syrup or honey: ¼ cup (60 ml)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: ⅓ cup (35 g)
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: ½ cup (85 g) plus extra for topping, optional
- Baking powder: ½ tsp
- Salt: ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Blend Base:
- In a food processor or blender, combine black beans, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Blend until completely smooth.
- Add Sweeteners & Cocoa:
- Add sugar, maple syrup, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Blend until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Mix in Chocolate Chips:
- Fold in chocolate chips with a spatula. Do not blend.
- Bake:
- Pour batter into pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips if desired. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until center is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Cool & Slice:
- Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Pin My kids love helping blend the beans and are always eager for a taste test. These brownies disappear fast at family get-togethers.
Required Tools
Food processor or blender, 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan, spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains eggs and chocolate (may contain milk or soy). Choose certified gluten-free chocolate chips and avoid nuts for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 140, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 20 g, Protein 3 g
Pin Enjoy these brownies as a snack or dessert, and feel good about their nutritious twist. No one will guess the secret ingredient.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use canned black beans for this dessert?
Yes, canned black beans work well as long as they are drained and rinsed thoroughly before blending.
- → How can I make these brownies vegan?
Replace the eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tbsp water) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- → What sweeteners are used in this dessert?
A combination of granulated sugar and maple syrup or honey provides balanced sweetness and moisture.
- → Is it necessary to blend the chocolate chips?
No, fold in the chocolate chips gently after blending the batter to maintain texture.
- → How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Bake until the center is mostly set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- → Can I add mix-ins such as nuts or dried fruit?
Yes, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or shredded coconut can be added to enhance texture and flavor.