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Fudgy Vegan Black Bean Brownies (Secretly Healthy & Gluten-Free)

A close-up of a rich, fudgy slice of black bean brownies topped with melted chocolate chips on a white plate.

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You can bake rich, fudgy brownies that taste completely traditional while sneaking in fiber and protein. This easy recipe uses black beans instead of flour, making them a secretly healthy, guilt-free chocolate dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed well and drained
  • 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or neutral oil
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips, plus extra for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Place the rinsed black beans, eggs (or flax eggs), melted oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract into a food processor. Process until the mixture is completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. You must eliminate all bean chunks for the best texture.
  3. Add the cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to the food processor. Pulse until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of chocolate chips using a spatula.
  5. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips over the top if you like.
  6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges should look set, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
  7. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. Cooling helps them set into a fudgy texture.

Notes

  • For a vegan, egg-free version, substitute the 3 eggs with 3 flax eggs (mix 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 9 tablespoons water and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
  • If you want a truly gluten-free fudgy brownie, confirm your chocolate chips and baking powder have no gluten contamination.
  • To make these naturally sweetened brownies even richer, add 1/4 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder with the dry ingredients.

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