Description
This Sugar-Free Black Bean Brownie recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional brownies by using black beans and natural sweeteners like Medjool dates, making a rich, fudgy treat without added sugar. Perfect for those seeking a gluten-free, low-sugar dessert packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup chopped Medjool dates
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup natural applesauce
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract or scrapings from one vanilla pod
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp good-quality salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the brownies evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir thoroughly until well blended and set aside to incorporate later.
- Puree Wet Ingredients: Place the cooked black beans, chopped Medjool dates, eggs, natural applesauce, and vanilla extract or vanilla pod scrapings into a food processor. Blend until a smooth, homogeneous paste forms, with no visible beans or dates remaining.
- Combine Batter: Add the previously mixed dry ingredients into the food processor with the wet mixture. Blend fully until all ingredients are well incorporated into a smooth chocolate batter.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Lightly oil and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or alternatively line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the brownie batter into the pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The brownies are ready when the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Notes
- For best texture, use cooked black beans that are soft and well-rinsed to avoid any canned flavor.
- Adjust baking time slightly if using a glass or dark-colored pan, as these can affect heat distribution.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies are naturally gluten-free and sweetened only with dates, making them a great option for those avoiding refined sugars.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
