Appetizer & Dessert

Black Bean Brownie Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Black Bean Brownie Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups black beans; 1/4 cup coconut or vegetable oil; 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar; 2 pinch A of unrefined stevia OR tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 to 2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; additional chocolate chips for garnish

Kathleen Looney December 27, 2024

Servings: 12 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about desserts that combines healthiness with indulgence. Black bean brownies are not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients. But let’s not stop there! A bit of creativity in pairing can elevate this sweet treat.

Imagine warm black bean brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of the warm, fudgy brownie with the cool, creamy ice cream is heavenly. You could also serve them with a dollop of whipped coconut cream to keep things dairy-free while adding a light sweetness.

Feeling adventurous? Drizzle some homemade raspberry sauce over the brownies for a tart kick. Or, if you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the chocolatey richness. Let’s not forget an iced coffee or a glass of cold milk on the side. Perfect pairings create a dessert experience that’s unforgettable!

What is the Black Bean Brownie?

In essence, black bean brownies substitute traditional flour with black beans, making them gluten-free and added fiber-rich. It’s a simple swap that leads to a result so scrumptious, you might just forget they’re healthier. We’ll break it all down, step by step.

Why This Recipe Works

Making black bean brownies isn’t just a creative endeavor; it throws the notion of conventional baking out the window. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

1. Healthier Ingredients:
Replacing flour with black beans rich in protein and fiber boosts the nutritional profile. Black beans are also a great source of antioxidants, which help in reducing oxidative stress in the body.

2. Rich Flavor Profiles:
The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips delivers a deep, indulgent flavor that classic brownies achieve. Black beans create a moist texture, yielding that delicious fudginess everyone loves.

3. Easy Preparation:
Whip these brownies up in no time with a food processor. Just throw in the ingredients, blend, and pour into a pan. No extensive mixing bowls or messy cleanup needed!

4. Versatile Dietary Options:
This recipe is gluten-free, vegetarian, and can easily be made vegan. Whether you’re dairy-free or simply looking for wholesome snacks, this recipe adapts effortlessly to your dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Black Bean Brownie

Here’s what you’ll gather for your adventure in the kitchen. Each ingredient plays a role in crafting the perfect brownie.

1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup quick-cooking oats (40g)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (10g)
1 1/2 cups black beans (equivalent to 1 drained and rinsed 15-oz can; about 250g after draining)
1/4 cup coconut or vegetable oil (40g)
1/3 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar (75g)
A pinch of unrefined stevia OR 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or increase the maple syrup to 1/2 cup and omit this)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup to 2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Additional chocolate chips for garnish

How To Make These?

Now that we have everything we need, let’s roll up our sleeves and make these brownies step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by draining and rinsing the black beans to remove excess sodium. Make sure to let them drain well. Gather the rest of your ingredients—this preparation makes the process smoother.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In a food processor, add the black beans, oats, cocoa powder, oil, maple syrup, stevia (if using), baking powder, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chocolate

Once the base is blended, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Mix them into the batter until evenly distributed. It’s magical to see those little chocolate morsels waiting to melt into dense, delicious bites.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Take an 8×8 baking pan and grease it lightly with oil. Pour the batter into the pan, spread it out evenly, and sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top as desired.

Step 5: Bake

Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center pulls out clean (or with a few moist crumbs).

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re cool, slice them into squares. Enjoy!

Tips

To enhance your brownie-making experience, here are five handy tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise and texture.
Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your preference. More chocolate chips? Go for it!
Chill the Batter: For denser brownies, you can chill the batter for 30 minutes before baking.
Add Flavors: Experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts, almond extract, or even a pinch of sea salt for a flavor boost.
Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary. Check them a minute or two early to avoid over-baking. Fudgy brownies are the goal!

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you have leftovers (highly unlikely, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, refrigerate them for about a week. You could also freeze them—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw at room temperature or pop them into the microwave for a quick reheat.

What are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Black Bean Brownies?

To elevate your serving experience, consider these suggestions:

1. Whipped Coconut Cream:
Light and fluffy, whipped coconut cream pairs beautifully with the richness of the brownies. A touch of vanilla enhances the flavor.

2. Fresh Berries:
Raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and provides a brilliant pop of color.

3. Nut Butter Drizzle:
Drizzling almond or peanut butter atop your brownie will satisfy any nut lover. The added creaminess brings another layer to each bite.

4. Chocolate Sauce:
For those who can’t get enough chocolate, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the brownies before serving. It makes for a decadent touch that will impress guests.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

If you find yourself short on some ingredients, here are handy substitutes:

1. Black Beans:
If black beans aren’t available, try using pinto beans—they yield a similar texture and flavor profile.

2. Cocoa Powder:
In a pinch, carob powder can be swapped for cocoa powder, providing a unique earthy flavor.

3. Maple Syrup:
Honey or agave can serve as alternatives if you’re out of maple syrup. Each brings its own sweetness.

4. Oats:
If quick-cooking oats aren’t on hand, rolled oats work, although they may require a slight modification in blending until smooth.

Conclusion

Creating black bean brownies opens up a new avenue of dessert possibilities. Rich, fudgy, and healthier than traditional brownies, this recipe has quickly become a staple in my household. The joy of baking something delicious and nutritious is always a win in my book.

By sharing this journey with you, I hope to inspire your culinary adventures. Try this recipe, and I promise it won’t disappoint. Make it today, indulge, and share the joy!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

Print Recipe

Black Bean Brownie Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Rest Time 15 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 12 Calories: 115 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Welcome to the world of surprising pleasures—black bean brownies! When I first encountered this chocolatey delight, I was skeptical. “Beans in brownies?” I thought. But with a peek at the ingredients and a deep breath, I dove in. What happened next was a revelation. These brownies were rich, fudgy, and satisfying. Let me bring you along on this journey so you can share in the bliss.

In this post, we’ll explore the thriving universe of black bean brownies. Whether you’re health-conscious or just looking for a delicious treat, this recipe checks all the boxes. We'll dive into why this recipe works, the ingredients you’ll need, and how to make these delectable brownies. Buckle up—it’s going to be a tasty ride!