When I first stumbled upon the idea of black bean brownies, I was admittedly skeptical. The thought of incorporating beans into a dessert seemed unconventional and frankly, a little strange. However, the trend piqued my curiosity, and I decided to give it a try. Much to my surprise, the brownies turned out to be a delightful treat that my family couldn’t get enough of. The rich, fudgy texture combined with a subtle hint of sweetness was a hit at our family gathering. Even the kids, who are notoriously picky eaters, couldn’t resist going back for seconds. The recipe has since become a staple in our household, offering a healthier alternative to traditional brownies without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

To make these delectable black bean brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This will prevent the brownies from sticking and make clean-up easier.

Next, place the black beans, eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt into a blender or food processor. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial to ensure that the black beans are fully pureed, as any chunks could alter the texture of the brownies.

Once blended, pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If you’re using chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the batter. This will add pockets of gooey chocolate goodness throughout the brownies as they bake.

Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. It’s okay if a few crumbs stick to the toothpick, as this indicates the brownies will be fudgy. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in dry brownies.

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps the brownies set and makes them easier to cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, with each serving containing about 150 calories. These brownies are a healthier alternative to traditional recipes, offering a lower calorie count while still providing a rich and satisfying treat.

Preparation Time

The total preparation time for these black bean brownies is around 40 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. The quick preparation makes this recipe ideal for those who want a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

• As a dessert: Serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• With coffee: Pair a brownie with your morning coffee for a sweet start to your day.
• At gatherings: Cut the brownies into bite-sized pieces for a party-friendly dessert option.
• With a drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
• With fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh beans: If you have time, cook your own black beans instead of using canned for a fresher taste.
2. Experiment with sweeteners: Try substituting sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
3. Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor.
4. Consider dietary needs: Use gluten-free baking powder to make the recipe gluten-free.
5. Store properly: Keep brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, while black beans are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other beans like kidney beans or chickpeas. Each type will bring its unique texture and flavor to the brownies.

Can I make these brownies vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer. Ensure that your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well.

How should I store leftover brownies?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have a blender?

If you don’t have a blender or food processor, you can mash the beans with a potato masher and mix the ingredients by hand. The texture might be slightly different, but the brownies will still be delicious.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes, feel free to add flavors like cinnamon, espresso powder, or even a splash of rum extract to enhance the taste of your brownies. Adjust the quantities to suit your preference.