Black Bean Brownies: A Delicious and Surprising Twist on a Classic Dessert
Who doesn’t love a gooey, chocolatey brownie? The dense fudginess, the rich cocoa flavor, and that satisfying indulgence make brownies a beloved treat for everyone. But what if I told you that you could enjoy all of that decadence while also incorporating a healthy ingredient? Enter black bean brownies – a delightful twist on the classic dessert that will have you coming back for more.
The Power of Black Beans
Black beans, often praised for their nutritional value, are a versatile legume that can be used in various dishes. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. By using black beans as the base for your brownies, you’re adding a nutritious boost to your favorite treat.
But you might be wondering, will the flavor of black beans overpower the chocolatey goodness? Not at all! When properly combined with the right ingredients, black beans can seamlessly blend into the brownie batter, leaving no trace of their presence except for the added health benefits.
Surprisingly Delicious
One might think that swapping out flour and butter for black beans would result in a compromised taste and texture. But black bean brownies are surprisingly delicious – moist, fudgy, and packed with chocolate flavor. The black beans contribute to the chewiness, while the cocoa powder and sweeteners provide the rich taste we all crave in a brownie.
Don’t just take my word for it – give it a try yourself! You’ll be amazed at how these brownies can satisfy your sweet tooth while also offering a guilt-free treat.
Simple and Easy Recipe
Making black bean brownies is a breeze. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences – add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a pinch of cinnamon for an extra kick.
Ready to get started? Here’s a basic recipe to guide you:
Ingredients:
- 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup of sweetener (such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar)
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into squares.
And there you have it – a simple and delicious recipe for black bean brownies!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are black bean brownies gluten-free?
Yes, black bean brownies are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain any wheat flour.
2. Can I substitute black beans for flour in other recipes?
While it’s possible to replace flour with black beans in some recipes, it may not work for every type of baked good. It’s best to follow a recipe specifically designed for black bean brownies.
3. Do black bean brownies taste like beans?
No, black bean brownies do not taste like beans. When combined with cocoa powder and sweeteners, the flavor of the black beans becomes undetectable.
4. Can I use homemade cooked black beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use homemade cooked black beans, make sure they are well-cooked and soft before using them in the recipe.
5. How should I store black bean brownies?
Store black bean brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life.
6. Can I freeze black bean brownies?
Yes, you can freeze black bean brownies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
7. Can I reduce the amount of sweetener in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sweetener to suit your taste preferences. Keep in mind that reducing the sweetener may slightly affect the texture and overall sweetness of the brownies.
8. Are black bean brownies suitable for vegans?
Yes, black bean brownies can easily be made vegan by using a plant-based sweetener, such as maple syrup or coconut sugar, instead of honey.
In Conclusion
Black bean brownies are a delightful and unexpected twist on a classic dessert. They offer a healthier alternative without compromising on taste and texture. So why not give them a try? Indulge in the rich chocolatey goodness while reaping the benefits of black beans. Get creative with your add-ins and enjoy this guilt-free treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth and nourish your body.
Black Bean Brownies
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- Butter (for greasing pan)
- 3/4 cup cooked black beans
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (divided)
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup confectioners
sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease a 9 by 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a blender, blend the beans and oil until smooth.
- Add the eggs, cocoa, sugar, coffee, and vanilla to the blender.
- Melt half of the chocolate chips and add them to the blender.
- Blend on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the flour mixture to the blender and pulse until just combined.
- Stir in the remaining chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the edges look matte and the center is slightly shiny.
- Allow the baked brownies to cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting and removing from the pan.
- Dust the brownies with confectioners' sugar.
- Serve and enjoy.
