Have you ever wished for a dessert that’s as wholesome as it is decadent? Welcome to the world of black bean brownie batter, a recipe that turns the humble black bean into a rich, chocolatey treat without any refined flour or dairy.
Imagine dipping a spoon into the smooth, chocolate-infused batter and knowing each bite is packed with nutritious ingredients. This recipe isn’t just an indulgence; it’s a guilt-free delight that everyone can enjoy. Let’s dive into the journey of how this black bean-based treat has captured the hearts of food lovers and health enthusiasts alike.
The Story Behind Black Bean Brownie Batter
When we think of brownies, black beans aren’t usually the first ingredient that comes to mind. Yet, in recent years, the rise of nutrient-dense alternatives in dessert recipes has led to a shift in what we consider a “treat.” The black bean brownie trend first gained popularity among the health-conscious crowd looking for ways to enjoy their favorite sweets while minimizing processed sugars and fats. By swapping traditional ingredients for wholesome ones, black bean brownies quickly became a sought-after snack that offers flavor and nutrition in each bite. Today, this recipe proves that a dessert can be both delicious and health-friendly.
Why We Love This Black Bean Brownie Batter Recipe!
This black bean brownie batter recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option. Here’s why it’s become a favorite among dessert lovers:
- Nutrient-Packed Ingredients: Made with fiber-rich black beans, protein-packed almond butter, and heart-healthy oats, this recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients.
- Delicious Chocolate Flavor: Despite being free from refined sugars, this batter delivers a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor thanks to natural cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
- Diet-Friendly: This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- Easy to Make: With only a food processor and a few simple steps, you can whip up this brownie batter in minutes.
Ingredients for Black Bean Brownie Batter
Black Beans – The foundation of this Black Bean Brownie Batter. Black beans provide the necessary moisture and a smooth, creamy texture without any traditional flour. If you want a different flavor, you could try swapping for other beans, but black beans are ideal for their mild taste and nutrient profile.
Oats – Rolled or quick oats are used in this recipe to help create the batter’s structure. They replace traditional flour and add fiber for a healthier dessert. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oats.
Almond Butter – This rich and creamy nut butter provides both flavor and healthy fats. It’s key to giving the batter its consistency and helping bind the ingredients together. If you prefer, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for a different twist or to make it nut-free.
Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness to your Black Bean Brownie Batter without the use of refined sugars. The maple syrup enhances the chocolate flavor while also keeping the recipe refined-sugar-free. You can substitute it with agave nectar if preferred, but maple syrup offers a unique depth of flavor.
Vanilla Extract – This ingredient enhances the overall flavor profile of your Black Bean Brownie Batter, making it taste more like traditional brownies. You can substitute with almond extract for a different twist if desired.
Cocoa Powder – Unsweetened cocoa powder is the key to achieving the deep chocolate flavor in your batter. Make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder to avoid adding unnecessary sweetness.
Soy Milk – Unsweetened soy milk is used to help blend the ingredients together while keeping the batter dairy-free. You can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or another plant-based milk of your choice, but soy milk adds a rich texture that complements the other ingredients.
Chocolate Chips – The chocolate chips are the perfect addition for a bit of sweetness and a chocolatey bite in every spoonful of Black Bean Brownie Batter. You can use dark chocolate chips, semi-sweet, or even dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it vegan.
How to Make Black Bean Brownie Batter Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Process the Oats
Begin by placing the oats in a food processor. Pulse until they resemble fine flour. This gives the batter a smooth, cohesive texture without the need for traditional flour. - Blend the Black Beans
Transfer the oats to a separate bowl. Next, add the drained black beans to the food processor and blend until they form a smooth puree. This is a key step for a creamy batter consistency. - Combine Ingredients
Return the oat flour to the food processor along with the black bean puree. Add the almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, salt, and unsweetened soy milk. Blend until all ingredients are well combined, creating a thick, smooth batter. - Incorporate the Chocolate Chips
Stir in the chocolate chips for a delightful burst of sweetness in each bite. For an extra touch, fold in a few more chocolate chips on top for garnish. - Chill Before Serving
Scoop the batter into a storage container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the texture to set.
Optional Modifications
- Swap Almond Butter: Substitute with peanut butter for a nutty, rich flavor.
- Add Coffee or Espresso Powder: Adding a pinch of espresso powder intensifies the chocolate flavor, making it richer and more complex.
Expert Tips for Perfect Black Bean Brownie Batter
- Rinse the Black Beans Well
Thoroughly rinsing the beans helps remove any residual liquid that might affect the flavor of your batter. It also ensures a smoother consistency. - Blend to Perfection
Processing the batter until smooth is essential for a creamy texture. If your food processor isn’t blending everything fully, pause and scrape down the sides before blending again. - Don’t Skip the Chilling Step
Refrigerating the batter allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a well-rounded taste and ideal consistency.
How to Store Black Bean Brownie Batter
After you’ve enjoyed your brownie batter, it’s essential to store it properly to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerator: Store the batter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Place the batter in a freezer-safe container for longer storage, up to 2 months.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing can be a convenient way to have this tasty treat on hand whenever a craving strikes.
- Portion into Containers: Divide the batter into small, individual portions using a scoop or spoon, then transfer each portion into a freezer-safe container.
- Seal and Label: Cover the containers tightly, and label them with the date.
- Thaw as Needed: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw an individual serving in the refrigerator.
The Health Benefits of Black Bean Brownie Batter
This black bean brownie batter recipe stands out as a nutritious alternative to traditional brownies, packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body. The star of the show, black beans, are rich in fiber and protein, promoting fullness and aiding digestion.
Combined with heart-healthy oats, this recipe provides a satisfying base that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Using natural sweeteners like maple syrup instead of refined sugars reduces the overall calorie count while still delivering sweetness. Additionally,
almond butter adds healthy fats and essential nutrients, making each bite not only indulgent but also beneficial. With its vegan and gluten-free qualities, this delicious treat is perfect for a wide range of dietary preferences, proving that you can enjoy dessert without compromising on health.
Total Estimated Nutritional Information (for the entire batch)
- Calories: ~1,367
- Protein: ~51g
- Fiber: ~27g
- Healthy Fats: ~36g
- Carbohydrates: ~150g (with approximately 60g from sugars)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does adding coffee to brownies do?
Adding coffee or espresso powder to brownies enhances the chocolate flavor by making it taste even richer and more intense. This addition won’t make your brownies taste like coffee but instead adds depth.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely. Swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter to make this recipe completely nut-free while maintaining a creamy texture.
Is this batter safe to eat raw?
Yes, this recipe is designed to be enjoyed as a raw batter. Since it’s egg-free and doesn’t contain traditional flour, it’s safe to eat right out of the fridge.
Bake Your Perfect black bean brownie batter Today
With this black bean brownie batter recipe, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious, wholesome treat. Packed with rich chocolate flavor and simple, nutritious ingredients, this dessert is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Bake your perfect black bean brownie batter recipe today—you’ll love every bite!
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Easy black bean brownie batter recipe
Ingredients
- 1 15 oz can black beans – rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup rolled or quick oats
- 1/2 cup natural almond butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened soy milk
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Process the Oats: Place oats in a food processor and pulse until they turn into fine flour.
- Blend the Black Beans: Transfer oats to a bowl. Add drained black beans to the food processor and blend until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the oat flour, black bean puree, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, salt, and soy milk into the food processor. Blend until everything is well mixed.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in chocolate chips and top with extra chips if you want.
- Chill: Refrigerate the batter for at least 10 minutes to set.
- Optional: Swap almond butter for peanut butter or add a pinch of espresso powder for a richer flavor.