Chocolate Black Bean Brownie Bites Recipe
Introduction
These Chocolate Black Bean Brownie Bites are a surprisingly delicious and nutritious twist on traditional brownies. Moist and fudgy, they pack protein and fiber without sacrificing rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for a quick snack or a healthier dessert option.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp regular cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp Dutch cocoa powder (or additional regular cocoa powder)
- 1/3 cup rolled oats
- 1 can black beans (or 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or honey, or agave)
- 1/4 cup oil or almond or peanut butter
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for garnish if desired)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan. You can also use a regular muffin pan or an 8×8 inch baking pan if you prefer.
- Step 2: In a high-quality food processor, combine all ingredients except the mini chocolate chips. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Stir in the mini chocolate chips gently to distribute them throughout the batter.
- Step 4: Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, filling each well about three-quarters full. Press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each brownie bite if you like.
- Step 5: Bake on the center rack of your oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove from oven and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes.
- Step 6: Run a knife around the edges of each brownie bite to loosen them and carefully pop them out of the pan. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use Dutch cocoa powder for a richer, deeper chocolate flavor, but regular cocoa works well too.
- Substitute almond or peanut butter for oil to add a nutty taste and extra creaminess.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate notes without making it taste like coffee.
- Try folding in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
- If you don’t have a food processor, a high-powered blender can also work to achieve a smooth batter.
Storage
Store the brownie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm briefly in the microwave or let them come to room temperature for the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Do these brownies taste like beans?
No, the black beans blend into the batter and add moisture and protein without a noticeable bean flavor. The cocoa and chocolate chips create a rich, satisfying chocolate taste.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, rolled oats are naturally gluten-free if certified as such. Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you need to avoid gluten completely.
PrintChocolate Black Bean Brownie Bites Recipe
These Chocolate Black Bean Brownie Bites are a delightful, fudgy treat made with wholesome ingredients like black beans, cocoa powder, and oats. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup, these bite-sized brownies are rich in flavor and packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthier dessert option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for snack time or a guilt-free indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini brownie bites 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp regular cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp Dutch cocoa powder (or additional regular cocoa powder)
- 1/3 cup rolled oats
- 1 can black beans (or 1 1/2 cups cooked black beans), rinsed and drained
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or honey or agave syrup)
- 1/4 cup oil (vegetable, canola, or melted coconut) or almond or peanut butter
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan lightly to prevent sticking. You can also use a regular muffin pan or an 8×8-inch baking pan if you prefer.
- Process Ingredients: In a high-quality food processor, combine the cocoa powders, rolled oats, black beans, salt, maple syrup, oil or nut butter, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Process everything until the mixture is completely smooth and well blended.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the mini chocolate chips gently into the batter after processing. This will add delightful bursts of chocolate in each bite.
- Fill Pan and Garnish: Portion the batter evenly into the prepared pan cavities. Press a few extra chocolate chips onto the top of each brownie bite if desired for garnish and extra chocolaty goodness.
- Bake: Bake the brownie bites on the center oven rack for about 10 minutes. They should be set but still moist inside.
- Cool and Remove: Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool for at least 10 minutes. Once cooled, run a knife gently around the sides of each brownie bite and pop them out of the pan.
Notes
- Make sure to use a high-quality food processor for the smoothest batter texture.
- Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup if preferred.
- For a nut-free version, use oil instead of almond or peanut butter.
- These brownie bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Reheat for a few seconds in the microwave for a gooey treat.
Keywords: chocolate brownie bites, black bean brownies, healthy brownies, gluten-free brownies, vegetarian dessert, fudgy brownies, mini brownies
