Home
Recipes
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes
Black Bean Brownies Recipe

Black Bean Brownies Recipe

Learn how to make these homemade fudgy black bean brownies that taste indulgent but pack a protein punch! This easy baking recipe transforms ordinary beans into extraordinary chocolatey goodness that's perfect for satisfying sweet cravings healthfully. Best of all? No one will guess the secret ingredient!
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
16 brownies
An overhead shot of freshly baked black bean brownies cut into perfect squares, revealing their fudgy interior against a rustic wooden board. Soft natural light accentuates the glossy, crackly top surface that contrasts with the dense, moist center visible in a partially lifted piece. A light dusting of cocoa powder adds depth while scattered cacao nibs and sea salt flakes provide texture. In the background, a vintage ceramic plate holds additional brownies beside a small glass of milk, with a few whole black beans artfully placed nearby as a subtle hint to the secret ingredient that makes these brownies uniquely nutritious yet decadently chocolate-forward.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 can (400g) black beans, rinsed and drained very well</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">50g cocoa powder, unsweetened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">150g granulated sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml coconut oil, melted (or vegetable oil)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">½ tsp baking powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g dark chocolate chips, divided</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Food processor or high-powered blender</li><li class="equipment-single-item">20cm (8-inch) square baking tin</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Thoroughly rinse and drain the black beans, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as excess moisture will affect the brownie texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Place the dried beans in a food processor and blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. The beans should form a paste with no visible pieces - this ensures no one detects them in the final brownies.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add the eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt to the food processor. Blend again until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in consistency, about 1-2 minutes. The batter should look like traditional brownie batter - dark, glossy and thick.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Reserve about 30g of the chocolate chips for topping, then pulse the remaining chips into the batter just a few times to incorporate them while leaving some chunks. The chocolate pieces will create pockets of melty goodness throughout your brownies.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Pour the batter into your prepared baking tin, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the corners. Unlike traditional flour-based batters, bean-based batters don't spread much during baking, so take care to create an even layer.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter, pressing them in slightly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Bake for 23-25 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the sides and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Be careful not to overbake - these brownies should remain fudgy in the center.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. The cooling period is essential for the brownies to set properly - they'll be too soft to cut while warm.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Once cooled, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 squares. For clean-edged pieces, wipe your knife between cuts. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months!</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Black Bean Brownies?

Black Bean Brownies use black beans, eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, and dark chocolate chips. The beans replace flour, making these brownies naturally gluten-free while adding protein and fibre.

How to cook Black Bean Brownies at home?

Learn how to cook Black Bean Brownies by blending rinsed, dried black beans until smooth, then mixing with eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, oil, and vanilla. Fold in chocolate chips, spread in a lined baking tin, and bake at 180°C for 23-25 minutes until just set but still fudgy in the centre. Allow to cool completely before cutting.

Can you taste the beans in these chocolate brownies?

When properly prepared, you cannot taste the beans at all. The key is thoroughly rinsing, draining and drying the beans, then blending them completely smooth. The rich cocoa powder and chocolate chips mask any bean flavour, resulting in brownies that taste purely chocolatey.

Are bean brownies actually healthier than regular brownies?

Yes, these brownies contain more protein, fibre and nutrients than traditional versions. Black beans provide complex carbohydrates and protein while eliminating refined flour. With about 165 calories per serving, they offer nutritional benefits like extra fibre, lower refined carbs, and more plant protein.

How do I ensure my fudgy brownies don't turn out too cakey?

For perfectly fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking (remove from oven when the centre still looks slightly underdone), don't overmix the batter after adding wet ingredients, use room temperature eggs, and ensure your beans are thoroughly dried after rinsing to control moisture content.

Want to try something else in ...

Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An overhead shot of a rustic wooden board featuring thick slices of golden-brown pumpkin bread with a perfectly risen dome and visible specks of spices throughout. A cross-section reveals the bread's incredibly moist, tender crumb studded with optional toasted pumpkin seeds. Bathed in soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window, the scene includes scattered cinnamon sticks, whole nutmegs, and fresh pumpkin pieces surrounding the loaf. A light dusting of powdered sugar highlights the bread's craggy top, while steam visibly rises from a freshly-cut slice placed beside a white ceramic mug of hot apple cider, suggesting warmth and comfort.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Moist, spiced pumpkin bread with a tender crumb and warm fall flavors that's completely vegan and gluten-free yet utterly indulgent and satisfying.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (10 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rustic, golden-brown gluten-free loaf with a perfectly cracked top, displayed on a weathered wooden board dusted with brown rice flour. The cross-section view reveals a surprisingly airy crumb structure with even bubbles throughout. Soft natural light streams in from a nearby window, highlighting the bread's textural details while casting a gentle shadow that emphasizes its height. A linen napkin in earthy tones frames one corner, with scattered seeds and a small dish of olive oil with herbs suggesting serving possibilities. The warm color palette of amber, beige, and soft browns evokes the comforting essence of freshly baked bread despite its specialty ingredients.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Vegan Gluten-Free Bread Recipe

A light, airy loaf with a tender crumb and crisp crust that satisfies both gluten-free and plant-based needs without compromising on authentic bread texture or flavor.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (12 slices)
View recipe
Close-up shot of perfectly formed vegan meringues with crisp, slightly crackled exteriors and swirled peaks, photographed in soft natural light against a pale blue ceramic plate. Several meringues are arranged in an artful cluster, revealing their delicate, hollow interiors where one has been broken open. Sprinkles of fresh berries and mint leaves add vibrant color contrast to the pure white treats. A small glass jar of aquafaba sits in the background, with a whisk resting nearby, hinting at the magical transformation of this bean liquid into these ethereal confections.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Vegan Aquafaba Meringues Recipe

Light and airy vegan meringues made with aquafaba that deliver the same delicate crunch and sweet melt-in-your-mouth texture as traditional meringues, without any egg whites.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
90 mins
Serves:
24 meringues
View recipe
An overhead shot of a perfectly crimped vegan gluten-free pie crust with a rustic, golden-brown edge, placed on a weathered wooden board surrounded by scattered almond flour and a small bowl of coconut oil. The soft natural light highlights the crust's tender flakiness and slightly textured surface. A cross-section view reveals delicate layers created by the cold coconut oil, while a close-up captures the artisanal hand-crimped edge. The warm, earthy tones of the crust contrast beautifully with the cool white ceramic pie dish, with fresh seasonal berries and herbs strategically placed nearby, suggesting the versatility of this foundation recipe.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Vegan Gluten-Free Pie Crust Recipe

A crisp, flaky pie crust that perfectly balances nutty almond flour with coconut oil, creating a versatile base for sweet or savory fillings without any animal products or gluten.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
1 pie crust (8 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of two glass parfait dishes filled with layers of pearly white chia pudding, vibrant berries, and golden granola, captured in soft natural morning light. A close-up reveals the delicate texture of plump chia seeds suspended in creamy coconut milk, contrasting with the jewel-toned layers of fresh berries and toasted granola clusters. A vintage silver spoon rests against one glass, while scattered blueberries, sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of honey decorate the rustic wooden serving board beneath. The parfaits showcase distinct layers with the top garnished with a mint leaf and a light dusting of cinnamon, highlighting the breakfast-to-dessert versatility of this nutritious creation.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Chia Seed Pudding Parfaits Recipe

Creamy, vanilla-infused chia pudding layered with vibrant fresh fruits and crunchy granola creates a nutritious yet indulgent breakfast or dessert parfait that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins (4 hours chilling)
Serves:
4 parfaits
View recipe
An overhead shot of six perfectly round vegan gluten-free donuts arranged on a rustic wooden board, with soft natural light highlighting their golden-brown exterior and glossy glaze. A close-up reveals the light, airy texture of one donut cut in half, showcasing its tender crumb. Scattered cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans, and a small bowl of colorful sprinkles add visual interest around the arrangement. A hand reaches for one donut, emphasizing their irresistible appeal, while steam gently rises from a cup of coffee placed alongside, suggesting these treats are freshly baked and ready to be enjoyed.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Vegan Gluten-Free Donuts Recipe

Light and fluffy vegan gluten-free donuts with a golden-brown exterior and soft interior, topped with a sweet glaze that melts in your mouth with each bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
12 mins
Serves:
12 donuts
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rustic wooden board featuring perfectly cut square sweet potato brownies with crackly tops and fudgy centers. A close-up reveals their dense, moist interior studded with chocolate chunks against the warm auburn tones from sweet potato. Soft natural light highlights the glossy sheen on their surface, with a dusting of cocoa powder adding contrast. A partial sweet potato and scattered cacao nibs decorate the corner of the board, while a small bite taken from one brownie exposes its irresistible fudgy texture. A vintage fork rests alongside, with traces of chocolate indicating a recently enjoyed piece.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Sweet Potato Brownies Recipe

Fudgy, rich brownies made with sweet potatoes that add incredible moisture, natural sweetness, and a nutritional boost to this decadent chocolate treat.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Serves:
16 brownies
View recipe
Overhead shot of golden-brown coconut macaroons arranged in a spiral pattern on a rustic ceramic plate, with a soft natural light highlighting their crispy, textured exteriors. A close-up reveals the delicate toasted edges and moist, chewy interior where coconut strands cling together in perfect harmony. Several macaroons feature a glossy chocolate-dipped base that contrasts beautifully with the pale golden color. Scattered coconut flakes and a sprig of mint add freshness to the composition, while a vintage blue linen napkin adds a pop of color against the wooden serving board in the background.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Vegan Coconut Macaroons Recipe

Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, these fragrant vegan coconut macaroons balance sweet coconut flavor with rich vanilla and a hint of salt.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Serves:
15 macaroons
View recipe
A stack of golden-brown almond flour chocolate chip cookies captured in warm natural light on a rustic wooden serving board. A close-up reveals their slightly crisp edges and soft, chewy centers studded with melting chocolate chunks. Some cookies are broken in half, showcasing the perfect distribution of chocolate chips throughout the nutty-textured cookie. Scattered whole almonds and a few extra chocolate pieces surround the composition, while a vintage blue ceramic plate holds additional cookies in the background. The scene is completed with a glass of milk and a linen napkin, emphasizing the homemade, comforting quality of these gluten-free treats.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Crisp on the edges yet delightfully chewy in the center, these gluten-free almond flour chocolate chip cookies offer a nutty depth and rich chocolate flavor in every irresistible bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
12 mins
Serves:
18 cookies
View recipe
An overhead shot of golden-brown chickpea blondies cut into perfect squares on a rustic wooden board, with one piece lifted slightly to reveal its dense, fudgy center. Melted chocolate chunks create pockets of richness throughout the blondies, while sea salt flakes catch the soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window. A small bowl of chickpeas and a jar of almond butter sit in the background, hinting at the secret healthy ingredients. The warm color palette of caramel, vanilla, and chocolate is enhanced by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top, creating beautiful texture contrasts in this unexpected plant-based treat.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Vegan Bakes

Chickpea Blondies Recipe

These moist, fudgy chickpea blondies deliver a decadent, buttery vanilla flavor with chocolate chunks throughout, offering a protein-packed twist on a classic dessert bar that no one would guess contains beans.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
16 blondies
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Black Bean Brownies Recipe", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Baker" }, "datePublished": "2024-04-25", "description": "Learn how to make these homemade fudgy black bean brownies that taste indulgent but pack a protein punch! This easy baking recipe transforms ordinary beans into extraordinary chocolatey goodness that's perfect for satisfying sweet cravings healthfully. Best of all? No one will guess the secret ingredient!", "prepTime": "PT10M", "cookTime": "PT25M", "totalTime": "PT35M", "keywords": "healthy brownies, black bean dessert, gluten-free brownies, protein-rich dessert, fudgy chocolate treats", "recipeYield": "16", "recipeCategory": "Dessert", "recipeCuisine": "American", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "165 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "23 g", "proteinContent": "4 g", "fatContent": "7 g", "saturatedFatContent": "4 g", "cholesterolContent": "23 mg", "sodiumContent": "120 mg", "sugarContent": "15 g", "servingSize": "1 brownie" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "1 can (400g) black beans, rinsed and drained very well", "2 large eggs", "50g cocoa powder, unsweetened", "150g granulated sugar", "60ml coconut oil, melted (or vegetable oil)", "1 tsp vanilla extract", "½ tsp baking powder", "¼ tsp salt", "100g dark chocolate chips, divided" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare", "text": "Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prep beans", "text": "Thoroughly rinse and drain the black beans, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as excess moisture will affect the brownie texture." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Process beans", "text": "Place the dried beans in a food processor and blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. The beans should form a paste with no visible pieces - this ensures no one detects them in the final brownies." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Mix batter", "text": "Add the eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt to the food processor. Blend again until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in consistency, about 1-2 minutes." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add chocolate", "text": "Reserve about 30g of the chocolate chips for topping, then pulse the remaining chips into the batter just a few times to incorporate them while leaving some chunks." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Pour and spread", "text": "Pour the batter into your prepared baking tin, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the corners. Unlike traditional flour-based batters, bean-based batters don't spread much during baking." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add topping", "text": "Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter, pressing them in slightly." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Bake", "text": "Bake for 23-25 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the sides and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter)." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cool", "text": "Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. The cooling period is essential for the brownies to set properly." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cut and serve", "text": "Once cooled, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 squares. For clean-edged pieces, wipe your knife between cuts." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "178" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Olivia Chen", "datePublished": "2024-04-10", "reviewBody": "Shockingly good! My kids had seconds and had absolutely no idea they were eating something healthy. Perfect way to get more fiber and protein into their diets without complaints.", "name": "Sneakily Nutritious", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Anika Patel", "datePublished": "2024-04-12", "reviewBody": "I couldn't believe these contain beans! The texture is so fudgy and rich, literally no one at my office potluck could tell these weren't traditional brownies. Will definitely make again.", "name": "Perfect Deception", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Marcus Lindberg", "datePublished": "2024-04-15", "reviewBody": "As someone who watches their blood sugar, these brownies are a game-changer. They don't spike my levels like regular brownies but still satisfy my chocolate cravings completely!", "name": "Blood Sugar Friendly", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Isabella Rodriguez", "datePublished": "2024-04-18", "reviewBody": "These have become my go-to healthy chocolate fix! They're rich and indulgent without the guilt. I've made them three times now and they turn out perfect every time.", "name": "Guilt-Free Indulgence", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Ahmed Hassan", "datePublished": "2024-04-20", "reviewBody": "As a personal trainer, I'm always looking for protein-packed treats for my clients. These brownies are the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence - and they're gluten-free too!", "name": "Fitness-Friendly Dessert", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ], "url": "https://www.whatsbaking.co/recipes/black-bean-brownies-recipe" }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Black Bean Brownies?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Black Bean Brownies use black beans, eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, and dark chocolate chips. The beans replace flour, making these brownies naturally gluten-free while adding protein and fibre." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to cook Black Bean Brownies at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to cook Black Bean Brownies by blending rinsed, dried black beans until smooth, then mixing with eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, oil, and vanilla. Fold in chocolate chips, spread in a lined baking tin, and bake at 180°C for 23-25 minutes until just set but still fudgy in the centre. Allow to cool completely before cutting." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you taste the beans in these chocolate brownies?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "When properly prepared, you cannot taste the beans at all. The key is thoroughly rinsing, draining and drying the beans, then blending them completely smooth. The rich cocoa powder and chocolate chips mask any bean flavour, resulting in brownies that taste purely chocolatey." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are bean brownies actually healthier than regular brownies?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, these brownies contain more protein, fibre and nutrients than traditional versions. Black beans provide complex carbohydrates and protein while eliminating refined flour. With about 165 calories per serving, they offer nutritional benefits like extra fibre, lower refined carbs, and more plant protein." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I ensure my fudgy brownies don't turn out too cakey?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For perfectly fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking (remove from oven when the centre still looks slightly underdone), don't overmix the batter after adding wet ingredients, use room temperature eggs, and ensure your beans are thoroughly dried after rinsing to control moisture content." } } ] }