Looking for a healthy yet indulgent dessert that fits into your gluten-free lifestyle? These fiber-rich gluten-free black bean brownies are the perfect solution. Packed with rich cocoa flavor and a fudgy texture, this recipe offers a nutritious twist on classic brownies by using black beans in place of flour. You’ll learn how to create this dessert in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients — and the best part? No one will guess they’re made with beans!
If you love creative gluten-free treats, you might also enjoy my Easy Chocolate-Dipped Watermelon Bites or 3-Ingredient Strawberry Frozen Yogurt for more healthy indulgences.
Key Ingredients
- Black Beans: The star ingredient, providing fiber and moisture.
- Cocoa Powder: Brings out deep chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Eggs: Help bind everything together and add structure.
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture, creating a decadent bite.
- Brown Sugar: Sweetens the brownies while giving them a hint of caramel flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Complements the cocoa with warm notes.
- Chocolate Chips: Add gooey chocolate throughout the brownies.
- Baking Powder: Provides a bit of lift for the perfect texture.
- Espresso Powder (Optional): Intensifies the chocolate without an overpowering coffee taste.
Why Use Black Beans in Brownies?
- High in Fiber: Black beans boost the fiber content, helping you meet your daily intake.
- Gluten-Free and Flourless: This makes it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Rich, Fudgy Texture: Black beans help create a dense, moist crumb that everyone loves.
- Protein-Packed: Adds protein without compromising the chocolatey goodness.
For another flourless dessert idea, check out my How to Make the Best Oven-Dried Orange Slices and add them to your brownie platter for a decorative, citrusy twist!
Expert Tips for the Best Brownies
- Blend Thoroughly: Make sure the beans are fully pureed to avoid any grainy texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect fudgy texture.
- Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder — it deepens the cocoa flavor without adding a coffee taste.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Expert Tips for the Best Brownies
- Blend Thoroughly: Make sure the beans are fully pureed to avoid any grainy texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect fudgy texture.
- Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder — it deepens the cocoa flavor without adding a coffee taste.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Step-by-Step Guide
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Blend the Ingredients:
- In a food processor or blender, combine black beans, eggs, melted butter, cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
Fold in the Chocolate Chips:
- Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl and gently fold in ¼ cup of dark chocolate chips.
Prepare for Baking:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool Completely:
- Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing. This allows them to firm up for the perfect texture.
FAQ
Yes! Swap the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative for a completely dairy-free version.
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Fiber-Packed Gluten-Free Black Bean Brownies
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
Ingredients
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup butter melted
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup all purpose gluten-free flour: I use King Arthur’s
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips plus extra for topping
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon espresso powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan with parchment or non-stick spray.
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine black beans, eggs, melted butter, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Pour the batter into a bowl and gently mix in ¼ cup of chocolate chips.
- Pour and Bake: Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Sprinkle more chocolate chips on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool and Slice: Let cool completely before slicing. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
