Vegan Black Bean Brownies

Decadent Vegan Black Bean Brownies have rich chocolate flavor, lots of chocolate chips, and an incredible fudgy texture.

When it comes to black bean brownies, I for one, LOVE them. To be fair, they can't compete with regular brownies, but when you consider them on their own, they are downright delicious.

They are perfectly fudgy, have a rich chocolate flavor, and loads of melty chocolate chips. The black beans add a nutritional boost that makes these healthy enough to enjoy as a mid-day snack!

Reasons to love this recipe:

• A secretly healthy dessert that tastes decadent!
• These brownies have more fiber and protein thanks to black beans - and you can't taste them!
• Are vegan, naturally sweetened, nut free, and can be gluten free.

Why black bean brownies?

You may find yourself asking, why would I add beans to my brownies?! Brownies are perfect as they are!

Yes, brownies without beans are Delicious with a capitol D, but sometimes I want something a bit healthier that can satisfy my afternoon chocolate craving.

Enter vegan black bean brownies. They are fudgy and decadent in their own right while having more protein and fiber than traditional brownies. They are also naturally sweetened and can be made with whole wheat flour.

Ingredients and substitutions:

• Flaxseed meal - we mix the flaxseed with water to create a flax "egg" it gives our vegan black bean brownies structure and helps them hold together when sliced.
• Black beans - use canned black beans or home cooked. Just make sure either are drained and rinsed well.
• Maple syrup - or another liquid sweetener if you prefer.
• Oil - I like olive or grapeseed oil, but any oil will work.
• Vanilla extract - use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor!
• Cocoa powder - or cacao powder. I used Special Dark Cocoa Powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Flour - white, whole wheat, spelt, etc. all work. For a gluten free brownie, use oat flour.
• Baking powder - helps the brownies rise.
• Salt - brings out flavor.
• Vegan chocolate chips - adds richness. Omit at your own risk ;)

How to make vegan black bean brownies:

Make the flax egg: In a small bowl, stir together the flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons warm water. Set aside for 5 minutes to thicken. Stir the flax egg once more to incorporate.

Blend the liquid ingredients: Add the black beans, maple syrup, oil, vanilla and flax egg to a blender and blend until smooth. You want those black beans completely broken down, so when in doubt, keep blending.

Stir in the dry: Transfer the black bean mixture to a large bowl and stir in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder and salt until just mixed. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake: Transfer the batter to your pan and bake for 35-45 minutes until a skewer inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Mine are perfect at 40 minutes. Cool before slicing and serving.

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Storage:

Store leftover brownies in a lidded container or ziplock bag in the fridge for 5-7 days. I like them cold straight out of the fridge, but you can also reheat them in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, individually wrap each brownie and place in a freezer safe lidded container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw on the counter before serving or reheat from frozen in the microwave.

Fun variations!

• Add in nuts: stir ½ cup of nuts into the batter before baking. I like walnuts or almonds!
• Swirl in nut butter: once the brownies are in the pan, scatter a few tablespoons of nut butter on top of the batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl it into the batter and bake.
• Mix it up with spices: try adding in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon cayenne, or 1 teaspoon orange zest to the dry ingredients!
• Frost them: after the brownies have baked and cooled, top them with your favorite frosting or ganache.

Can I use another type of bean?

While I do think black beans create the best brownies, you can also use adzuki beans. They have a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make them gluten free?

Yes! Simply use certified gluten free oat flour in place of the flour in the recipe.

More vegan chocolate desserts!

• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
• 10 Minute Dark Chocolate Hummus
• Dairy Free Milk Chocolate Bars
• Chocolate Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
• 2 Ingredient Chocolate Almond Butter Fudge