Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies are naturally gluten-free and made with simple, better-for-you ingredients. They’re incredibly moist, easy to prepare, and perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings in a more nourishing way. Even picky eaters won’t guess the secret ingredient.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
canned black beans
eggs
unsweetened cocoa powder
honey or maple syrup
coconut oil or olive oil
vanilla extract
baking powder
salt
dark chocolate chips
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly. Add them to a food processor along with the eggs, cocoa powder, sweetener, oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until completely smooth.
Stir in the chocolate chips by hand, then pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing for best texture.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 9 to 12 brownies.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a baking time of 25 to 30 minutes. Total time is around 40 minutes.
Variations
You can add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch. Swap the sweetener for a sugar-free alternative if desired. For extra richness, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled brownies.
Storage/Reheating
Store Black Bean Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Warm individual pieces briefly if desired, though they’re delicious chilled as well.
FAQs
Do black bean brownies taste like beans?
No, the cocoa and sweetener fully mask the bean flavor.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, they’re naturally gluten-free.
Can I use dried beans?
Cooked dried beans can be used as long as they’re very soft.
Are these brownies very sweet?
They’re moderately sweet and can be adjusted to taste.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, simply use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Why are my brownies crumbly?
They may be overbaked or need more cooling time.
Can kids eat these brownies?
Yes, they’re kid-friendly and nutritious.
Can I make these vegan?
You can use flax eggs in place of regular eggs.
Should I refrigerate them?
Refrigeration helps them firm up and intensifies flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a larger pan and adjust baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Black Bean Brownies are a delicious example of how wholesome ingredients can create truly indulgent desserts. Fudgy, chocolatey, and easy to make, they’re a smart treat you’ll want to bake again and again.
PrintBlack Bean Brownies
Fudgy, rich brownies made with black beans for added protein and fiber, delivering decadent chocolate flavor while remaining naturally gluten-free and wholesome.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine black beans, eggs, cocoa powder, sweetener, oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Stir in the chocolate chips by hand.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Do not overbake to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Optional: add chopped nuts or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra richness.
- These brownies are naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan using flax eggs.
- Chilling helps them firm up and enhances flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
