Name: Black Bean Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed); 3 large eggs; ½ cup pure maple syrup; ⅓ cup melted coconut oil; ¼ cup cocoa powder (or raw cacao powder); ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt; ½ teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips; ⅓ cup chopped raw walnuts (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 23 reviews

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s rich, fudgy, and surprisingly wholesome, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Black Bean Brownies Recipe. These brownies are a game-changer, transforming simple pantry staples into a decadent treat that marries indulgence with nutrition. The black beans create an incredibly moist texture that rivals traditional brownies, while the cocoa and chocolate chips deliver that deep chocolate flavor you crave. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just looking to sneak some extra protein and fiber into your sweets, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a grid of nine dark brown chocolate brownies with a slightly crumbly texture. Each brownie is square and topped with uneven pieces of light tan and golden walnut halves and chunks spread across the surface. The brownies are placed closely together on a white marbled textured surface, with clear straight lines of space visible between each piece. The overall look is rich and rustic with contrast between the deep chocolate and the golden nuts. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things refreshingly straightforward while packing a punch in flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from providing moisture and sweetness to adding depth and crunch.

Black beans (1 15 oz can, drained and rinsed): The superstar ingredient that makes these brownies moist and fudgy without flour.
Eggs (3 large): Bind everything together and add structure to your brownies.
Pure maple syrup (½ cup): A natural sweetener that gives subtle depth and caramel notes.
Melted coconut oil (⅓ cup): Adds richness and a gentle tropical aroma, plus keeps the brownies moist.
Cocoa powder (¼ cup): For that rich chocolate base, feel free to swap in raw cacao powder to heighten the bittersweet flavor.
Fine sea salt (⅛ teaspoon): Just a pinch to elevate and balance the sweetness and chocolate.
Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Helps give just enough lift to keep the brownies tender but not cakey.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor for that classic brownie warmth.
Dairy-free chocolate chips (½ cup): These pockets of melty chocolate make every bite even more irresistible.
Chopped raw walnuts (⅓ cup, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and a subtle nuttiness to contrast the fudgy texture.

How to Make Black Bean Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan. This small step ensures your brownies will release easily after baking. Meanwhile, don’t forget to drain and rinse your black beans well to remove any canning residue, which can sometimes alter the taste.

Step 2: Blend Your Batter

Here’s where the magic starts. Throw the black beans, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, sea salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract into a food processor or blender. Blitz it until the mixture becomes smooth and velvety. This blending process transforms the beans into a seamless base that acts like traditional flour but with so many added benefits.

Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Once your batter is perfectly smooth, remove the blade and gently fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if you’re using them. These two ingredients are what add texture and bursts of chocolatey fun, making every bite unexpectedly delightful. Alternatively, you can sprinkle walnuts over the top of the batter after pouring it in the pan for an attractive finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’ll want to look for the edges setting and a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean to know your brownies are perfectly baked. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing; this cooling stage really helps set the fudge-like texture that makes these brownies so amazing.

How to Serve Black Bean Brownies Recipe

The image shows four steps of making brownies. The first part is a top view of a food processor bowl filled with brown cocoa powder, dark brown beans, white powder, and two bright orange egg yolks on top. The second part shows a blended dark brown shiny batter with semi-sweet chocolate chips on one side inside the same food processor bowl. The third part is a white square baking dish lined with parchment paper and filled with smooth dark brown brownie batter sprinkled evenly with light brown chopped nuts on top. The fourth part shows the same baking dish after baking, with a firm dark brown surface and a layer of golden brown chopped nuts scattered evenly on top, sitting on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate your black bean brownies to a cafe-worthy dessert. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sea salt brings out the chocolate flavor beautifully. Fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream add freshness and creaminess that complements the dense brownies perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve your brownies alongside a cup of rich coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness, or offer dairy-free whipped cream for a light, fluffy contrast. For a special occasion, try pairing with fresh fruit compote or a tangy raspberry sauce to add complexity and color to your dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

These brownies aren’t just delicious; they are versatile too. Try layering them in a jar with whipped coconut cream for a portable dessert parfait. Or make mini brownie bites by baking in muffin tins and topping individually with nuts and drizzle. They also work wonderfully crumbled over vegan ice cream for a fun, textured sundae.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, you can store your black bean brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They actually taste even better after a day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Keep them away from direct light and heat to preserve their fudgy consistency.

Freezing

Black bean brownies freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep their taste and texture for up to 2 months, making them perfect for prepping ahead or surprising guests with a ready-made treat.

Reheating

If you like your brownies warm, pop a piece into the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or briefly heat in a low oven. This revives the gooey, melty chocolate chips and brings back that fresh-baked feeling, guaranteed to make your kitchen smell irresistible.

FAQs

Are black bean brownies healthy?

Yes! Using black beans adds protein, fiber, and nutrients that traditional flour-based brownies lack. While they still contain sweeteners and fats, these brownies provide a more balanced indulgence.

Can I use canned black beans straight from the can?

It’s best to drain and rinse canned black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid taste before blending. This step ensures your brownies taste fresh and pure.

Do black bean brownies taste like beans?

Not at all! When combined with chocolate and sweeteners, the beans become undetectable, providing a smooth texture without a bean flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, and by using dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil, it’s also dairy-free.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use agave nectar, honey (if not vegan), or brown rice syrup. Just remember, this may slightly alter the flavor and sweetness levels.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Black Bean Brownies Recipe a whirl because it’s one of those rare desserts that feels like a treat and a little victory for your health all at once. Once you’ve tasted these fudgy, chocolatey gems, you’ll wonder why you ever baked brownies the old-fashioned way. So grab your blender, your can of black beans, and get ready to impress yourself and everyone you share them with!

Black Bean Brownies Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need