Chewy, rich, and ridiculously decadent - you'll never believe that beans are the star of these luscious brownies! Fudgy Black Bean Brownies are so good, you'll never brownie another way again!
If we're going to indulge ourselves, we're going all in. We don't want a "healthified", so-so version of something that doesn't satisfy like the real deal. So, when the idea of using beans in desserts became a thing, we were a bit skeptical to say the least. How could any dessert made of BEANS become a drool-worthy treat? Well, we're officially eating our words with each fudgy bite, because these Fudgy Black Bean Brownies are here to STAY!
Recipe Notes
Beans - Truly, any bean will work for this recipe. That said, for a classic chocolate brownie color, we recommend using black beans. If you are going the blondie route, white beans would work perfectly! If you are unable to find beans with no salt added, be sure to rinse your beans several times to remove as much sodium as possible. Otherwise, you can end up with salty end product - not delicious.
To ensure the perfect brownie texture, it's important to blend your beans completely to remove any lumps. We recommend scraping down the sides of your blender or food processor several times to ensure you have a smooth product, before adding additional ingredients.
Ground Flaxseed - Flaxseed is an easy and otherwise unnoticeable addition that adds amazing nutrients to these brownies. Ground flaxseed also adds moisture and helps bind batters, making them a perfect egg replacement in baking. We find that a 50/50 ratio of flax "eggs" to real eggs yields the best texture.
To make flax "eggs", simply combine water with ground flax (3 parts water to 1 part flax) and let sit until a viscous mixture forms. That's it!
Add-ins - While not necessary, we find a handful (or two) of chocolate chips or crushed adds that perfect brownie touch. A little splash of peppermint, orange, or coconut extracts can also add a fun twist!
Dark Chocolate Black Bean Brownies (GF, DF)
Ingredients
- 2 15 oz can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoon avocado oil or other neutral oil
- ¾-1 cup sugar (for a traditional brownie flavor use 1 cup, for a more bitter, dark chocolate flavor, ¾ cup)
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- ¾ cup water
Optional Topping:
- ⅓ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, combine flaxseeds and water. Whisk together for 20 seconds; set aside.
- Add rinsed and drained beans to a food processor with oil and vanilla. Process until smooth.
- Add cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and eggs. Blend until well combined.
- Lastly, add flax "eggs" and blend again until smooth.
- Pour brownie mixture into a lightly oiled 9x9 baking pan. If adding chocolate chips, sprinkle over top the batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
Looking for more gluten-free desserts? Check out our Edible Cashew Cookie "Dough" and No-Churn Chocolate Ice Cream!
I’m not going to lie, I was a bit hesitant, but this was actually delicious! We opted for the full 1 cup of sugar and put the dark chocolate chips in the batter instead of on top but they were great. I made them with my sister for a family gathering and everyone loved them, including my 3yo child and my 4yo niece. 🙂
These brownies tasted so good and will be making them again.
I love these brownies they are so delicious and definitely will be making them again.
These brownies look very rich and delicious!
Thank you Camila! <3 It's amazing how lowly black beans can become so decadent!