Black Bean Brownies

Black Bean Brownies – These rich and fudgy black bean brownies are a deliciously unexpected twist on a classic treat. Made with simple pantry staples, including black beans, cocoa powder, and a touch of sweetener, they’re the perfect healthier alternative to traditional brownies.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Black Bean Brownies

• Texture Tip: If you prefer a smoother batter, blend the black beans a little longer or use a high-speed blender. This will ensure there are no noticeable bean bits, resulting in a silky smooth brownie.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you like your brownies on the sweeter side, feel free to adjust the amount of sweetener you use. Maple syrup, honey, or stevia all work well in this recipe. Start with the recommended amount and taste the batter before baking.
• Chocolate Lovers: For an extra chocolatey treat, add more chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the brownies before serving.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Powder: The baking powder helps give these brownies their lift and contributes to the soft, fudgy texture. Skip it, and you might end up with dense, dense brownies.

Variations of Black Bean Brownies

• Vegan Black Bean Brownies: Swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg). You can also use a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup or coconut sugar.
• Keto-Friendly Black Bean Brownies: Replace the maple syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener. Since black beans are relatively low in carbs, they can fit into a keto diet when paired with low-carb sweeteners.
• Nut-Free Black Bean Brownies: If you’re allergic to peanuts or nuts, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini. These options will still give you that creamy, rich texture.
• Samoa-Style Black Bean Brownies: Top your cooled brownies with shredded toasted coconut, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of sea salt for a Samoa-inspired treat.
• Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies: Swirl extra peanut butter into the batter before baking to create pockets of creamy peanut butter throughout the brownies.

How to Serve Black Bean Brownies

• As a Dessert: These brownies are perfect for serving after dinner or at a party. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
• With Fruit: Serve your black bean brownies with fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries, for a refreshing contrast to the rich, chocolatey flavors.
• For Breakfast: Sounds odd, but these brownies are a great breakfast option! With the protein-packed black beans and the healthy fats from the peanut butter, they’re filling enough to start your day.

How to Store Black Bean Brownies

• Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the brownies. They will stay fresh for up to a week and maintain their fudgy texture.
• Freezing: Black bean brownies freeze well. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place them in a zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or microwave them for a few seconds.

Recipe FAQs

Can you taste the black beans in black bean brownies? No, you won’t taste the black beans! They blend seamlessly into the batter and contribute to the moisture and fudgy texture without overpowering the flavor of the brownies.

Can I use canned black beans for this recipe? Yes! Canned black beans are convenient and work perfectly. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before using them in the recipe.

Can I use other types of beans? While black beans are the most common bean used for brownies, other beans like kidney beans or white beans can also be used. However, black beans tend to have the best flavor and texture for this dessert.

Are black bean brownies gluten-free? Yes! As long as you use gluten-free ingredients, these brownies are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

How do I know when the brownies are done? The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done.

Can I make black bean brownies without eggs? Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) to make them vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Black bean brownies are the perfect way to indulge in a chocolatey treat without compromising on health. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with protein and fiber. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional brownies, this recipe is a winner. Try it out for your next bake sale, party, or family gathering—you’ll be amazed at how delicious and satisfying they are!

Try other brownie recipes:

• Gluten Free Brownies
• Vegan Brownies
• Blonde Brownies