Vegan Fudgy Gluten-Free Black Bean Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies made with black beans as the secret base, creating incredibly moist texture while boosting protein and fiber. The beans blend seamlessly with cacao powder and nut butter, delivering deep chocolate flavor without any bean taste. Flax eggs and dairy-free chocolate chunks make these completely vegan. Perfect for health-conscious dessert lovers or anyone with gluten sensitivities who doesn't want to compromise on indulgent chocolate satisfaction. The espresso enhances the chocolate intensity while walnuts add satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed mealchia seeds1:1vegan
similar binding
- 6 tablespoons water
- ½ cup organic cane sugar
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup unsalted peanut or almond butter
- ¾ cup cacao powder
- 2 tablespoons brewed espresso(optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, crushed
- ¼ cup dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chunks
- 2 tablespoons dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chunks
Instructions
- 1
Mix flaxseed meal with water in small bowl and set aside to thicken for 15 minutes
- 2
Preheat oven to 350°F and line 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper
- 3
Process sugar in food processor until finer texture
- 4
Add black beans and nut butter to processor and process until smooth
- 5
Add flax eggs, cacao powder, espresso, vanilla, baking powder and salt, process until smooth, scraping sides as needed
- 6
Mix in chocolate chunks by hand
- 7
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top with spatula
- 8
Top with walnuts and remaining chocolate chunks
- 9
Bake for 25-30 minutes until toothpick comes out clean
- 10
Cool completely before cutting
Tips
Make sure black beans are thoroughly drained and rinsed to prevent excess moisture and off flavors in the brownies.
Let flax eggs sit the full 15 minutes to properly thicken and bind the batter effectively.
Cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling and achieve clean slices with the best fudgy texture.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for up to 1 week
Can be made 1-2 days ahead, flavors improve overnight
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, cut into squares
Common Mistakes
Don't skip cooling time to avoid crumbly, messy cuts
Process ingredients thoroughly to avoid bean chunks in final brownies
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I taste the black beans in these brownies?
No, when properly processed the beans blend completely and provide only moisture and richness without any bean flavor.
How long do these brownies keep fresh?
Store covered at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to one week for best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze these black bean brownies?
Yes, wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to 3 months, thaw at room temperature before serving.