Craving a rich, chocolatey dessert but looking for something healthier? Black Bean Brownies are a delicious, nutrient-packed alternative to traditional brownies. They’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made vegan, making them a great treat for anyone following a plant-based diet.
The secret ingredient, black beans, creates a dense, fudgy texture without any flour.
Here’s everything you need to know about making these easy and satisfying brownies from scratch!
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Why Use Black Beans in Brownies?
Black beans may seem like an unusual ingredient for brownies, but they work incredibly well. They add a rich, moist texture without altering the chocolatey flavor we all love.
Plus, they’re packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making these brownies a healthier option than most traditional recipes.
The beans blend seamlessly into the batter, so you won’t taste them — all you’ll get is a fudgy, chocolate-filled delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to make a batch of Black Bean Brownies:
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or any neutral oil
- ½ cup maple syrup or agave syrup
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup rolled oats or oat flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolatey goodness)
Vegan & Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is already dairy-free and vegan if you use dairy-free chocolate chips. Coconut oil and maple syrup make it perfect for a plant-based diet.
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Black Beans
Start by draining and rinsing a can of black beans thoroughly. This step is important because it removes any canned bean residue, which can alter the taste. Once rinsed, pat the beans dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Blend the Ingredients
Place the black beans in a food processor or blender along with the coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and no chunks of black beans remain. This may take 1–2 minutes, depending on your blender or food processor.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, add the cocoa powder, rolled oats, baking powder, and salt to the blender. Blend again until all the ingredients are well combined. The batter should be thick and smooth. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water to help it blend. The oats act as a binder and add a slight chewiness, but you can substitute them with oat flour for an even smoother texture.
4. Stir in the Chocolate Chips
Once the batter is well-blended, stir in the dairy-free chocolate chips using a spatula or spoon. Chocolate chips add an extra layer of richness and make these brownies truly indulgent. You can skip them if you prefer a lower-sugar option, but they’re highly recommended for the best taste!
5. Prepare to Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with coconut oil to prevent sticking. Spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan, using the back of a spoon to smooth the top.
6. Bake the Brownies
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. The brownies are ready when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter). Avoid overbaking, as Black Bean Brownies are best when they remain soft and fudgy.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. Cooling them helps them firm up and makes them easier to slice. Once cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper, then cut them into squares. Enjoy these brownies on their own, or serve them with a sprinkle of sea salt, a scoop of dairy-free ice cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Tips for Perfect Black Bean Brownies
- Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: The chocolate flavor in this recipe comes primarily from the cocoa powder, so opt for a high-quality, unsweetened variety to get the richest taste.
- Blend Thoroughly: For the best texture, blend the black beans until completely smooth. Any chunks of beans left in the batter could affect the taste and texture.
- Add a Nutty Twist: If you like, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
- Experiment with Sweetness: Maple syrup provides natural sweetness, but you can adjust it to taste or replace it with another liquid sweetener, like agave or date syrup.
- Make it Extra Fudgy: For a more indulgent treat, add an extra tablespoon of coconut oil or a splash of almond milk to the batter.
Variations and Substitutions
- Nut-Free Option: This recipe is naturally nut-free if you use coconut oil. However, you could also use any seed-based oil, like sunflower oil, if preferred.
- Lower Sugar Version: For less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup to ⅓ cup and add a bit of stevia or monk fruit extract to maintain sweetness without extra calories.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a unique flavor twist. The spices complement the chocolate and add a bit of warmth.
- Extra Protein Option: If you’re looking to add more protein, try adding a tablespoon of your favorite plant-based protein powder. It won’t change the flavor much but will make these brownies more filling.
Storage Tips
Store these Black Bean Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat one, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Health Benefits of Black Bean Brownies
Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help keep you full and satisfied. They’re also rich in iron, folate, and antioxidants that support heart health and help reduce inflammation. By using black beans instead of flour, you cut down on refined carbs and add nutrients, making these brownies a healthier dessert option. Coconut oil provides a dose of healthy fats, while maple syrup adds natural sweetness without refined sugar.
