These Black Bean Brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with a deep chocolate flavor, all while offering a healthier twist on the classic dessert. Made with black beans, they’re gluten-free, lower in fat, and provide a protein boost without sacrificing the indulgent brownie texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Black Bean Brownies are the ultimate healthy indulgence, offering the perfect balance of richness, moisture, and a deep chocolate flavor. With black beans as the secret ingredient, they’re not only lower in fat but also packed with protein and fiber, making them a guilt-free treat. You won’t even miss the flour or refined sugar—just a decadent, fudgy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking to indulge without the extra calories or want a healthier dessert option, these brownies hit the spot.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a food processor or blender, combine the black beans, eggs, melted coconut oil (or butter), cocoa powder, brown sugar (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Blend until smooth and well-combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the batter and lightly press them in.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Nutty Brownies: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
Sweeteners: You can substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a refined-sugar-free option.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to make the brownies fully dairy-free if preferred.
Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of mint extract for a mint-chocolate twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer them slightly warm.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bean in this recipe?

Although black beans are the most commonly used for this recipe, you can experiment with other beans like kidney beans or navy beans. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly.

Do the black beans make the brownies taste like beans?

No, the black beans provide moisture and a fudgy texture without leaving a noticeable bean flavor. The cocoa powder and vanilla extract mask any bean taste.

Can I make these brownies without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs for a vegan version. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The top should also look slightly cracked.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Can I use coconut flour instead of regular flour in this recipe?

Coconut flour is very absorbent, and it requires adjustments in liquid. This recipe is best with regular flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but you can experiment with coconut flour if desired.

How do I make the brownies more cake-like?

For a fluffier texture, you can add an extra egg or use a little baking soda in place of the baking powder. However, note that these brownies are intended to be dense and fudgy.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar by half or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How do I make the brownies less dense?

If you prefer a lighter texture, try using a food processor with less blending time to avoid over-mixing, or fold in the chocolate chips gently.

How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?

Increase the cocoa powder by a tablespoon or add more chocolate chips for an extra chocolate punch.

Conclusion

These Black Bean Brownies are a guilt-free indulgence that brings together the richness of chocolate and the benefits of black beans. With a fudgy texture, deep chocolate flavor, and easy preparation, they are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while still keeping it healthy. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious treat or simply want to try something new, these brownies will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Black Bean Brownies

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Rich and fudgy brownies made with black beans, offering a healthier twist on the classic dessert without compromising on flavor or texture. These brownies are decadent, moist, and packed with a deep chocolate flavor.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a food processor or blender, combine the black beans, eggs, melted coconut oil (or butter), cocoa powder, brown sugar (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Blend until smooth and well-combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the batter and lightly press them in.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

Notes

For an extra richness, try adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the batter.
If you prefer a sweeter version, you can increase the brown sugar or maple syrup slightly.
Ensure that the brownies are completely cooled before cutting to achieve neat squares.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg