A Simple Guide to Making Delicious Vegan Black Bean Brownies

Hello there! I’m Elaina, the food lover behind Flavour Food and Wine. Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to dive into one of my personal favorites – Vegan Black Bean Brownies. These delightful brownies are a perfect blend of nutritious black beans and rich cocoa, creating a dessert that’s both healthy and delicious. So, let’s get started on this exciting culinary adventure and explore the wonderful world of Vegan Black Bean Brownies together.

Vegan black bean brownies recipe

Vegan black bean brownies

Since starting the Living Your Moksha Challenge, I’ve been more and more interested in learning about vegetarian and vegan living. I find it fascinating the beautiful alternative ingredients that are used in these cuisines. As of late, I’ve been ‘tempting’ or ‘testing out’ healthier versions of common recipes on someone very dear to me that has diabetes. Since they require a refined-sugar-free diet, making sweets (his favourite) has been a bit of challenge. Last Friday evening we celebrated his birthday and as my birthday cake contribution, I brought these little guys, Black Bean Brownies. Now I know what you’re thinking…’Are you for real?‘. Why yes I am! I’ve been dying to make something with black beans lately, and the typical salsa wasn’t cutting it for me in the experimentation department. So I looked around and found a very healthy, vegan, sugar-free recipe for brownies. The Happy Herbivore was my inspiration for a very different type of brownie. I took out the vanilla extract, since I didn’t have gluten-free and replaced with chopped up chocolate-mint from my garden. 

Firstly, I had all the ingredients, minus one ripe banana (which was easily purchased at the shop). Secondly, I could ensure that there was no refined sugar in it, so I whipped it up as a birthday surprise. And lastly, they actually taste pretty good! But they are different! Don’t expect to taste your typical high-chocolately brownie. I warn, because when I took my first bite, it was not what I expected. In the end, I found them to be quite interesting. I’m not sure they were the hit I was hoping for, but in the end, I got to try something new. I introduced a healthy dessert alternative to the family and I raised awareness. It’s all about what you get out of something in the end, isn’t it? So if you’re in the mood for something new, something different, and something that will help you live a healthier life, then definitely give these a try. And if you want, spread a little almond butter on them, makes them taste even better!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine French

Servings 3 people

Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

• 1 oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 can 19 fl oz. black beans, drained + rinsed
• 2 overripe bananas
• 1/3 cup agave nectar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp of cinnamon
• 1 tbsp of chocolate-mint chopped
• 1/4 cup instant oats or whole oats blended in food processor

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Prepare either one 8′x8′ pan, or as I did, two bread loaf pans. (Only due to lack of necessary equipment) 😉
• In food processor, blend black beans, bananas, agave nectar, cocoa powder, cinnamon and chocolate-mint.
• I added one at a time, because I’ve got the small 4 cup processor.
• Mix until fully blended. Stir in the oats and pour into pan(s).
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes, depending on your oven.
• I would keep checking them every ten minutes and remove when a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the middle.
• Let cool before cutting into squares.

Video

Keyword bananas, black beans

About Vegan Black Bean Brownies

Vegan Black Bean Brownies are a creative and nutritious twist on the classic brownie recipe. They’re made with black beans, which not only add a boost of protein and fiber but also create a wonderfully moist and fudgy texture. Originating from vegan and health-conscious cultures, these brownies offer a unique gastronomic experience that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.

Cooking Tips

• For your Vegan Black Bean Brownies, make sure to thoroughly rinse and drain the black beans to remove any excess sodium.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
• If you prefer your brownies a bit sweeter, consider adding a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Blend the ingredients until smooth to ensure a uniform texture in your brownies.
• Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them. This helps them hold their shape better.

Serving Suggestions

• Vegan Black Bean Brownies can be served as a dessert or a snack.
• Pair them with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Top your brownies with fresh berries or a drizzle of peanut butter for added flavor and nutrition.
• Pack these brownies in a lunchbox for a healthy snack on the go.
• For a gluten-free option, use oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use other types of beans for my Vegan Black Bean Brownies? Yes, you can substitute black beans with other types of beans like kidney beans or chickpeas. Just make sure they are cooked and rinsed.
• Can I make Vegan Black Bean Brownies in advance?  Yes, Vegan Black Bean Brownies can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• What can I use if I don’t have cocoa powder? If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can substitute it with the same amount of unsweetened chocolate. Just make sure to reduce the amount of sweetener in the recipe.
• Can I make my Vegan Black Bean Brownies gluten-free?  Yes, you can make your Vegan Black Bean Brownies gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.
• Can I add other ingredients to these brownies?  Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts, seeds, or even some vegan chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Vegan Black Bean Brownies are a dessert that truly celebrates the flavors of cocoa and the health benefits of black beans. Their combination of nutritious beans and rich cocoa creates a satisfying and flavorful treat. By following these cooking tips and serving suggestions, you can create a batch of these healthy brownies right in your own kitchen. Remember, cooking is about creativity and personalization, so feel free to experiment with different beans, sweeteners, and add-ins. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!