Fudgy black bean brownies

Fudgy black bean brownies are delicious, gluten-free and full of protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates.

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tI’ll admit it: I was skeptical, too. But does this brownie look like it’s made with black beans? It sure doesn’t taste like it.

While substituting black beans for flour is not a new discovery, I’ve just never been interested in doing so, enjoying the same boxed brownie mix for years.

t Over time, though, I’ve become a little more health conscious, seeking out energy food and adopting better habits in the kitchen.

t As active, busy women and mothers, with the responsibility to feed ourselves and our tiny people, small substitutions can make a big nutritional difference.

t Hence the black beans.

Fudgy black bean brownies

Ingredients:

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• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

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• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt

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• 3 large eggs

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• 3 tablespoons canola oil

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• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

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• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

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• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

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• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

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• Pinch of salt

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• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:

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1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat an 8 x 8-inch baking pan.

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2. Place the black beans in a food processor (or a powerful blender, though a food processor will make a big difference in texture and taste). Add a little bit of water and process until the beans are creamy and smooth (important!)

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3. In a food processor or mixing bowl, add eggs, oil, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, peppermint extract, baking powder and salt. Process until smooth. Stir in the dark chocolate chips.

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4. Pour the batter into a pan.

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5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar (optional).

Adapted from www.BeanInstitute.com/recipes

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t When I made these brownies for the first time, I was pleasantly shocked. They were delicious! These fudgy black bean brownies have a slightly different taste: slightly more cakelike, but definitely chocolaty, rich and fudgy.

t My children were the best guinea pigs for testing out this recipe – they’d immediately tell me the truth. My children gobbled them up… and then asked for more.

t And what are the health benefits? Without flour, these fudgy brownies are gluten-free. Both the black beans and the Greek yogurt provide needed protein, fiber, vitamins and complex carbohydrates. Cheers to that!

Need another tasty treat? Try the Fudgy Black Bean Candy Cane Cookie. YUM.

t For more gluten-free recipes and desserts, click here.