Looking for a delicious and nutritious way to satisfy your chocolate cravings? These Fudgy Chickpea Chocolate Blondies are a game-changer, offering a guilt-free treat that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying. You’ll love how easy they are to make, perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Canned Chickpeas: Essential for that fudgy texture. Rinse them well!
- Nut Butter (Peanut, Almond, or Cashew): Provides healthy fats and binding. Use your favorite, just ensure it’s natural with minimal added sugar.
- Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar: For natural sweetness. Adjust to your preference.
- Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened): For rich chocolate flavor.
- Chocolate Chips (Dairy-Free if preferred): Adds melty pockets of chocolate goodness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed very well and drained
- 1/2 cup natural nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 9
- Tools Needed: Food processor, 8×8 inch baking pan, parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze for your Healthy Chocolate Desserts Ideas.
2. Blend the Base Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, nut butter, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. You want no chickpea chunks!
3. Fold in Chocolate Chips
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Gently fold in the 1/4 cup of chocolate chips until evenly distributed. This ensures you get chocolate in every bite of your Fudgy Chickpea Chocolate Blondies.
4. Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
5. Cool and Slice
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cooling is crucial for the fudgy texture to set properly. Once cool, slice into 9 squares and enjoy your delightful Healthy Chocolate Desserts Ideas!
Variation Ideas
- Nutty Boost: Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Minty Fresh: Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a mint chocolate twist.
- Spiced: A pinch of cinnamon can add warmth and depth to these Fudgy Chickpea Chocolate Blondies.
- White Chocolate: Swap some or all of the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
Storage Instructions
Store your Fudgy Chickpea Chocolate Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual blondies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, these blondies are naturally gluten-free!
- Do they taste like chickpeas? No, when blended properly, the chickpea flavor completely disappears, leaving only a rich, fudgy chocolate taste.
- Can I use a different sweetener? You can experiment with other liquid sweeteners, but adjust the amount to your taste as sweetness levels vary.
- Why are my blondies not fudgy? Overbaking can make them dry. Ensure you remove them from the oven when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Are these suitable for vegans? Yes, as long as you use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your nut butter is natural, these are vegan-friendly. They fit perfectly into the category of Healthy Chocolate Desserts Ideas.
- Can I add protein powder? You can try adding a scoop of unflavored or chocolate protein powder, but this might alter the texture slightly.