Vegan Black Bean Brownies

These Vegan Black Bean Brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with wholesome ingredients! Black beans add moisture, fiber, and protein, while the chocolate flavor shines through in every bite. They’re gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthier way.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup oat flour (or gluten-free flour of choice)
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips (optional)

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted) or plant-based butter
  • 1/4 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar (or other unrefined sugar)
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water (flax egg)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

  1. In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency (this acts as an egg replacement).

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

  1. In a food processor or high-speed blender, add the black beans, maple syrup, coconut oil, almond milk, vanilla extract, and flax egg.
  2. Process the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring that no chunks of black beans remain.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, oat flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until fully combined.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)

  1. Fold in vegan chocolate chips for extra decadence and chocolatey goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
  3. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Once cooled, slice the brownies into squares. Enjoy these rich, fudgy brownies as a healthy, satisfying dessert or snack!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sugars: 12 g
  • Sodium: 105 mg

Tips

  • Storage: Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute coconut oil with sunflower oil or other nut-free oils if needed.
  • Flour Substitute: If you don’t have oat flour, you can easily make it by blending oats in a food processor until finely ground.
  • Extra Richness: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate or top with a sprinkle of sea salt before serving for an extra decadent touch!

These Vegan Black Bean Brownies are a delightful, guilt-free indulgence that will impress even non-vegans! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a sweet snack at home, they’re loaded with plant-based nutrition while satisfying your chocolate cravings.