Black Bean Brownies

Not only is this recipe grain-free, sugar-free, gluten-free and dairy-free, it is also one of the easiest recipes ever.

 

Baking this time of year is always a tradition that we make time for. We try to include some healthier baking options that are equally delicious and fun to make. I know it sounds weird to bake with beans, but you can’t even tell that these brownies have a not-so-secret ingredient. I was first introduced to black bean brownies by my very sweet mother in law, and I have been a huge fan ever since!

As most of you know, I am a huge dark chocolate fan. Not only is dark chocolate full of beneficial minerals like magnesium, iron and zinc, it has also been shown to improve cognition and support a healthy mood. There has also been some research that shows a healthy consumption of cacao and dark chocolate can help regulate blood sugar through improving how the body metabolizes glucose. This recipe is also full of beautiful fibre from the black beans that will help support healthy digestion. Choosing good quality and organic beans (BPA free if possible) is always an important factor. Choosing quality ingredients is a necessary step to healthy baking. It is also important to try to source locally what you can. Maple syrup and honey are two foods that are tasty and versatile, but also have greater health and environmental impact when sourced locally.

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Ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup of cacao powder

  • 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract

  • 2 Tbsp. Maple Syrup

  • 1/2 cup honey

  • 1 can of black beans

  • 1/2 cup of coconut oil (melted)

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • 2 oz dark chocolate (finely chopped) or 1/4 cup chocolate chips

  • 1/4 cup cacao nibs

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Melt coconut oil in a sauce pan and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Grease an 8x8 baking dish with 1 tsp. solid coconut oil (it will melt with the warmth of your hands) and set aside. In a large, high-speed bender, put all ingredients into the pitcher (be sure to rinse and drain the black beans before adding to the blender) and blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Empty blender contents into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool for one hour until serving. These brownies will be best served after being refrigerated for at least 1-2 hours after initial cooling.

Jess