These vegan black bean brownies are rich, fudgy, and surprisingly delicious! Made with black beans as the main ingredient, they are gluten-free and packed with protein and fiber. Here’s how to make them!

Ingredients

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (to make flax eggs)
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) water
• ¼ cup (60 g) peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter of choice)
• ½ cup (40 g) cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup (45 g) ground oats (gluten-free if needed)
• ⅓ cup (110 g) maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• 2–3 oz (60–90 g) dairy-free chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Flax Eggs:
   • In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
3. Blend the Ingredients:
   • In a food processor, combine the black beans, peanut butter, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, ground oats, maple syrup, baking powder, sea salt, and espresso powder. Blend until smooth.
   • Add the flax egg mixture and blend again until fully combined.
4. Add Chocolate Chips:
   • Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips using a spatula.
5. Pour into Pan:
   • Transfer the brownie batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. For fudgier brownies, bake for a shorter time; for cakier brownies, bake a bit longer.
7. Cool and Slice:
   • Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Tips for Success

• Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Customization: Feel free to add nuts or swap out chocolate chips for dried fruit if desired!
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if necessary.

These vegan black bean brownies are a deliciously healthy treat that you won’t want to miss! Enjoy them as a snack or dessert any time!