Black Bean Brownies

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.