Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Fudgy Black Bean Brownie
Sargent Choice Fudgy Black Bean Brownies
February 5, 2025
Why We Chose This Recipe
These fudgy black bean brownies are a delicious and easy way to add plant-based protein to your snack or dessert, making them more satisfying. Plus, they’re rich in chocolate flavor with a fudgy texture just like traditional brownies.
Recipe Adapted from: Meal Makeover Mom’s book, No Whine with Dinner
Yield: Makes 16 2-inch brownies
Ingredients
- 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract, optional
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly oil or coat an 8 x 8-inch.
- Place the black beans in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, oil, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, peppermint extract (if desired), baking powder, and salt and process until smooth. Add ¼ cup of the chips and pulse a few times until the chips are incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top with a rubber spatula, and sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup chocolate chips.
- Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan before slicing into 2-inch squares.
What We Liked
- Students loved the fudgy and sweet taste of the brownies, and many came back for more!
- The black beans made the brownies more satiating and added a slight robustness to the texture!
- We enjoyed the slightly melted chocolate on the surface and throughout the brownie.
- These brownies were easy to make!
Dorm-Friendly Version
If you don’t have access to an oven, you can still enjoy these brownies using a microwave:
- Spoon about ¼ cup of batter into a microwave-safe mug or small bowl.
- Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Let it cool slightly before enjoying. The texture will be softer than oven-baked brownies but still rich and chocolatey!
Nutritional Value
- Black beans provide plant-based protein, helping to keep you full and energized. They are also rich in fiber, which supports digestion and promotes a feeling of satiety. Black beans are a great source of protein, providing long-lasting energy.
- Eggs contain vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function, along with high-quality protein to aid in muscle repair and overall health.
- Cocoa powder is a source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and contribute to heart health.
- Iron from black beans plays a crucial role in oxygen transport and energy production.