Make decadent black bean brownies for a 'sweet' day
Black bean brownies offer a unique twist on the classic dessert, ingeniously using black beans for a moist, rich texture without eggs. As a healthier alternative to traditional recipes, this dish has become popular for its clever ingredient use and surprising taste. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone seeking a guilt-free treat, these brownies deliver indulgence in every bite. Let's start cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
For these brownies, you'll need: one 15-ounce can of black beans (drained and rinsed), three tablespoons of vegetable oil, three-quarters cup of cocoa powder, one-quarter teaspoon of salt, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, one-half cup of granulated sugar (adjust according to sweetness preference), and one and one-half teaspoons of baking powder. Optionally, include one-half cup of chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
Preparing your beans and batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Puree the drained and rinsed black beans in a food processor until smooth for the best texture. Add vegetable oil to this puree and blend well. This creates the wet base of your brownie batter, ensuring a moist and rich texture in the final product.
Mixing dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, salt, sugar (adjust the quantity to your taste), and baking powder. Ensure there are no lumps in this mix. This crucial step achieves the rich chocolate flavor balanced with the right amount of sweetness and provides the necessary lift for your brownies, making it an essential part of the recipe.
Combining wet and dry ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the bean mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix to preserve the texture. If using chocolate chips or nuts for added crunch and flavor, now's the time to gently mix them in. This step ensures even distribution without compromising the batter's consistency, readying it for baking into delicious brownies.
Baking your brownies
Pour your batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan (an eight by eight inch pan works best) spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean but slightly moist with crumbs; this ensures they are perfectly moist inside without being undercooked.
