Craving a rich, decadent dessert that’s also surprisingly wholesome? These Fudgy Black Bean Brownies are a delicious way to enjoy a sweet treat while incorporating healthy beans into your diet. Get ready to bake a batch of incredibly moist and chocolatey brownies that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Canned Black Beans: Essential for the fudgy texture and a key element in healthy beans recipes. Rinse thoroughly.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides deep chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened for best results.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar work well. Adjust to your sweetness preference.
- Nut Butter: Almond butter or peanut butter add richness and binding. Sunflower seed butter is a good nut-free alternative.
- Oil: Coconut oil (melted) or any neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil.
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained very well
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup neutral-flavored oil (like melted coconut oil or vegetable oil)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened nut butter (almond or peanut butter recommended)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dairy-free if desired), plus extra for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 9 brownies
- Calories per serving: Approximately 220
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, food processor, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift the brownies out later.
2. Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the rinsed black beans, maple syrup, oil, nut butter, and vanilla extract. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no bean lumps visible. Scrape down the sides as needed. This step is crucial for a smooth brownie texture.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder to ensure even distribution.
4. Mix Everything Together
Pour the wet black bean mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir well until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
5. Bake Your Brownies
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared 8×8 inch baking pan. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
6. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Cooling is important for them to set properly and become fudgy. Enjoy these healthy beans recipes brownies with a glass of plant-based milk.
Variation Ideas
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Peppermint Twist: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract for a festive flavor.
- Coffee Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Zesty Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright contrast.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Fudgy Black Bean Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do these brownies taste like black beans? No, you won’t taste the black beans. They blend seamlessly into the batter, providing a rich, fudgy texture.
- Can I use a different type of bean? Black beans are ideal for their neutral flavor and creamy texture when blended. Other beans might alter the taste or texture.
- Are these brownies gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.
- Can I make these vegan? This recipe is already vegan, assuming your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- Why are my brownies not fudgy enough? Over-baking is a common cause of dry brownies. Watch them carefully and remove them from the oven when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not liquid batter.
- Can I substitute regular sugar? While maple syrup and agave nectar are recommended for their moisture and natural sweetness, you could experiment with an equivalent amount of granulated sugar, though it may alter the texture slightly.