Print

Fudgy Vegan Black Bean Brownies (Secretly Healthy and Gluten-Free)

A close-up, fudgy slice of black bean brownies topped with melted chocolate chips on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Bake rich, deeply chocolatey black bean brownies that are fudgy, protein-packed, and secretly healthy. This easy, no-flour recipe delivers traditional brownie taste while being naturally gluten-free and vegan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed well and drained
  • 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or neutral oil
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup gluten-free oat flour (or regular flour)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips, plus extra for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Combine the rinsed black beans, eggs (or flax eggs), melted oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a food processor. Blend until completely smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  3. Add the cocoa powder, oat flour, baking powder, and salt to the food processor. Pulse until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of chocolate chips by hand.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the extra chocolate chips over the top.
  6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges should look set, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
  7. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial for achieving the fudgiest texture.
  8. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out and cut them into squares.

Notes

  • To make flax eggs (vegan substitute): Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until gelatinous. Use 1 flax egg in place of 1 regular egg.
  • For the best fudgy texture, allow the brownies to cool for at least one hour before slicing.
  • If you do not have a food processor, you can use a high-powered blender, but you may need to blend in smaller batches.
  • This recipe is naturally low in calories compared to traditional recipes.

Nutrition