Irresistible Fudgy Bean Brownies

Featured in Bake Something Special.

Gluten-free brownies that are bursting with chocolate flavor, made with black beans as a swap for flour. These fudgy delights are raved about by hundreds for their taste and texture.
Rose
Updated on Tue, 11 Mar 2025 16:06:44 GMT
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These fudgy black bean brownies have become a treasured recipe in my kitchen. The rich, chocolatey squares hide an unexpected secret ingredient that creates the perfect chewy texture and deep flavor. Even the most devoted brownie enthusiasts can't detect the healthy twist that makes these treats so special.

Essential Ingredients

Black beans require thorough rinsing until the water runs completely clear to ensure no residual flavor carries into the brownies.

Room temperature eggs help create the ideal texture - allow them to sit out for 30 minutes before baking.

Dutch-process cocoa powder provides the deep, rich chocolate flavor that defines these brownies.

Any neutral-flavored oil works well in this recipe, from standard vegetable oil to light olive oil.

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Preparation Method

Bean Preparation:
Process the rinsed black beans until completely smooth with no visible particles remaining.
Wet Ingredients:
Combine the pureed beans with room temperature eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
Dry Ingredients:
Sift together cocoa powder and sugar to eliminate any lumps for the smoothest possible texture.
Mixing:
Combine wet and dry ingredients until a glossy batter forms, then fold in chocolate chips.
Baking Setup:
Line baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly warmed with vanilla ice cream, or garnish with fresh berries and a light dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.

Variations

Create marbled effects by swirling in peanut butter before baking. For holiday versions, incorporate crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

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Professional Tips

Remove from oven while center appears slightly underbaked for optimal fudginess.

Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean squares.

Ensure beans are processed until absolutely smooth for the best final texture.

This recipe demonstrates how wholesome ingredients can create decadent results when properly prepared. The combination of rich chocolate flavor and perfect fudgy texture makes these brownies a reliable favorite for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Do the black beans affect the flavor?
Not at all! When blended really well and mixed with the chocolate, the beans are completely undetectable.
→ Why are black beans used in brownies?
They’re a stand-in for flour, which keeps everything gluten-free, while also adding some extra fiber and protein to the mix.
→ How do I store these brownies?
They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 7 days. Or you can freeze them for up to 3 months!
→ Can I adjust the texture to be softer or firmer?
Sure! Cut back on baking time if you want gooier ones, or bake them longer for a firmer texture. Keep an eye on the middle to see if it’s set.
→ Can I make a larger batch?
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and let them bake an extra 15–20 minutes for the thicker version.

Bean Brownies

Decadent, chocolate-loaded gluten-free brownies made with black beans instead of flour. A sweet surprise with every bite!

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Sweet Treats

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 16 Servings (16 brownies)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Base Ingredients

01 One 15-ounce (425g) can of black beans, washed and drained
02 3 big eggs
03 3 tablespoons of any neutral oil, like vegetable or canola
04 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring

→ Dry Ingredients

05 ⅔ cup (120g) of sugar
06 ¼ cup (30g) of cocoa powder without added sugar
07 ½ teaspoon of baking powder
08 ¼ teaspoon of salt
09 ½ teaspoon of instant coffee granules or finely ground coffee, optional

→ Add-ins

10 ½ cup (60g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 01

Turn your oven on to 350°F (176°C). Blend the black beans in a food processor until they’re kind of pasty. Grab a big bowl and mix the blended beans with eggs, oil, and vanilla.

Step 02

In a different bowl, stir together the cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, salt, and coffee if you’re using it. Dump this mixture into the wet ingredients and mix it all together. Then, toss in the chocolate chips.

Step 03

Get an 8x8 or 9x9 inch pan ready by greasing it and adding some parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for about 30–40 minutes. The edges should be firm, and the center should be mostly set.

Step 04

Let the brownies cool down all the way before cutting them up.

Notes

  1. If you want them thicker, double the ingredients
  2. Store them in the fridge and they’ll stay good for a week
  3. Keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months

Tools You'll Need

  • Food processor
  • Baking dish, either 8x8 or 9x9 inches
  • Parchment for lining
  • Mixing bowls

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Has eggs in it

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 117
  • Total Fat: 5 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 16 g
  • Protein: 3 g