These No-Bake Black Bean Fudge Brownies are a perfect balance of rich, fudgy goodness and wholesome ingredients. The black beans create a smooth, decadent base that’s complemented by the depth of cocoa and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup or honey. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent yet is made with nutritious ingredients.
Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also customizable. You can add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra crunch and texture, or enjoy them as they are for a simple, clean treat. Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack, a gluten-free dessert, or a vegan option, these brownies are sure to satisfy your cravings in the best way possible.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
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1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
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1/4 cup cocoa powder
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
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1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
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In a food processor, combine black beans, almond or peanut butter, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
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If desired, fold in chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
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Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
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Transfer the mixture into the pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
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Slice into squares and serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per serving | Servings: 12
The Benefits of Black Beans in Desserts
You might be surprised to learn that black beans are not just for savory dishes—they make an excellent addition to desserts, too! Black beans are packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and folate. This makes them a perfect substitute for flour and butter in many dessert recipes. By incorporating black beans into brownies, you’re increasing their nutritional value without compromising on taste. The beans give the brownies a smooth, fudgy texture, and they help bind the ingredients together in a way that makes these treats incredibly satisfying.
Not only do black beans add a nutritional boost, but they also help to reduce the glycemic index of the dessert. This means that they won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can often happen with traditional sugary desserts. As a result, these brownies can be enjoyed by those managing blood sugar levels or simply those looking to make healthier choices.
Why Go No-Bake?
Traditional brownies often require baking, which involves preheating the oven, monitoring the baking time, and dealing with the heat of the kitchen. However, this No-Bake Black Bean Fudge Brownies recipe eliminates all of those steps, making it a much more convenient option. No-bake desserts are particularly beneficial for hot summer days when turning on the oven can make your kitchen unbearably warm. These no-bake brownies require minimal preparation time, and once they are assembled, they simply need to be chilled in the refrigerator for a few hours to set. This makes them the ideal dessert for those who are looking for something quick, easy, and low-effort.
The no-bake method also helps retain the natural flavors of the ingredients, allowing the black beans and cocoa to shine without being overpowered by the heat of baking. This is especially beneficial when using wholesome ingredients like almond butter or peanut butter, which are often used in no-bake recipes for added flavor and texture.
Customization Options for No-Bake Brownies
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily customizable it is to fit your dietary preferences and taste preferences. If you prefer almond butter over peanut butter, you can easily make that swap, as both offer a rich, creamy base for these brownies. You could also experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar, to suit your tastes.
For those who follow vegan or dairy-free diets, simply use plant-based chocolate chips and ensure that the sweetener used is also plant-based. The brownies are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those who need to avoid gluten. You can also make the recipe nut-free by omitting the almond or peanut butter and substituting it with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.
For a little extra texture and flavor, you can mix in ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even crushed nuts. These add-ins provide a bit of crunch and extra richness, making each bite even more delightful. Some people enjoy a little sprinkle of sea salt on top to balance out the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.
The Perfect Treat for Different Lifestyles
This recipe is perfect for people with various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a healthier dessert option, these No-Bake Black Bean Fudge Brownies can easily be adapted to fit. They are an excellent choice for those following plant-based diets, as they are naturally free from dairy and animal products, yet still provide a satisfying and indulgent dessert experience.
Additionally, these brownies are great for anyone who needs a quick energy boost. The black beans provide slow-digesting carbs and fiber, while the almond or peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein. These brownies make for an excellent pre- or post-workout snack, offering a good balance of macronutrients to fuel your body and help with muscle recovery.
If you’re someone who enjoys meal prepping, these brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for several days. They keep well in an airtight container, allowing you to have a healthy snack on hand whenever you need it. They are also great for packing into lunchboxes or bringing along to parties and gatherings.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
If you’re tired of reaching for store-bought snacks full of preservatives, artificial ingredients, and added sugars, this No-Bake Black Bean Fudge Brownies recipe is a game-changer. It allows you to indulge in a sweet treat without compromising on health. This recipe is simple, healthy, and requires just a few pantry staples, so you can make these brownies anytime you’re craving something chocolatey and sweet.
Moreover, the fact that it’s a no-bake recipe makes it even more appealing for busy individuals or those who aren’t confident in the kitchen. You don’t need to worry about mastering baking techniques or finding the right temperature—just blend the ingredients together, chill, and you’re good to go!
Conclusion: A Must-Try Dessert
No-Bake Black Bean Fudge Brownies offer the best of both worlds: indulgent chocolatey goodness with a healthy twist. They’re easy to make, customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs, and packed with wholesome ingredients that provide more than just empty calories. Whether you are trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle or simply looking for a guilt-free dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Incorporating black beans into your desserts is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional profile of your treats without sacrificing taste, and these brownies are a great introduction to that concept. With minimal preparation and no baking required, these brownies are the perfect treat for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, chocolatey dessert that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Give this recipe a try and indulge in a healthier way to satisfy your chocolate cravings. With its rich, fudgy texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, these No-Bake Black Bean Fudge Brownies are bound to become your new go-to dessert. Enjoy!