These brownies are a perfect sweet treat and a great alternative to other high sugar and high calorie brownie recipes.
When I first read this recipe, I have to admit, I was a little skeptical of the words “black beans” and “brownies” being in the same sentence. After making them, I was pleasantly surprised in how chocolaty and delicious they turned out to be. These brownies are great for special occasions. They are a nice alternative to a traditional cake and other super-sweet, sugar-shocking desserts. The black beans add bulk and fiber to this recipe, and the applesauce makes the brownies moist. For more information on all of the nutrients your baby needs, check out our nutrient chart.
Here is what you need to make your own batch of black bean brownies:
- 3/4 cup cooked or canned black beans
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or canola oil)
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 cup confectioners sugar, for dusting (optional)
Combine black beans, oil and applesauce.
Note* If you use canned black beans, be sure to drain them.
Using the immersion blender, purée the beans, oil and applesauce.
Next add the eggs and cocoa powder.
Add the vanilla and sugar.
Melt half of the chocolate chips and blend them in with the mixture using the immersion blender.
In a small bowl mix together the flour, baking powder and salt.
Note* I used wheat flour, but white flour is fine.
Using the immersion blender, mix the flour mixture in with the batter until smooth.
You can stir in the remaining mini chocolate chips to the batter if you would like.
Note* For a healthier option, skip the folded in mini chocolate chips. It will still be tasty and sweet!
Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit in a greased 9×9 inch square baking pan. Pour into prepared pan and bake 25-30 minutes.
When done, the surface will look matte or dry, the very center may still look shiny. Let cool at least 15 minutes and add powdered sugar (optional) before cutting and removing from pan.
You can cut them into squares or use a cookie cutter for a fun design.