Chocolatey Goodness You Can’t Resist!
Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie that’s not just delicious but secretly packed with nutritional goodness! Yeah, that’s right — these Black Bean Brownies are here to change the dessert game. They’re quick to whip up, use simple pantry staples, and you might just start a little kitchen revolution with this one-pan magic. Trust me, they’re a crowd favorite that’ll leave everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
Why Make This Recipe
Who can say no to brownies that are not only tasty but also healthy? Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love:
- Easy Cleanup: You’ll need just one bowl (and maybe a blender), so you can spend less time scrubbing and more time indulging.
- Family-Friendly: These healthy brownies are a sneaky way to get kids (and adults) to enjoy black beans. Who said dessert can’t be nutritious?
- Budget-Friendly: With a can of black beans and some basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch without breaking the bank!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 standard can black beans (drained and rinsed well)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (like grapeseed, canola, peanut, or vegetable)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee (decaf is fine; see Recipe Notes)
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-processed, your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
Time to transform those ingredients into brownies! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line an 8-inch square light metal baking pan with nonstick foil (or greased regular foil or parchment). Set aside.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the drained black beans, eggs, oil, vanilla, and coffee. Blend until completely smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar, breaking up any clumps.
- Pour the bean mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until smooth and well combined. The batter will be soft.
- Fold in about half of the chocolate chips, if using.
- Scrape the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining chips on top and press down lightly to help them stick.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top springs back when pressed gently and the center doesn’t jiggle when you move the pan.
- For cakier brownies, lower the oven temperature to 300°F and continue to bake for another 3 to 5 minutes or until the center is really stable.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack. Chill for 30 minutes in the fridge (or 10 in the freezer), then lift out and slice into squares with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts.

How to Make Black Bean Brownies Recipe (Overview)
Let’s break down the process. It’s super simple! First, blend all your wet ingredients like you mean it. Not a single bean should be left behind! Next, give your dry mix a good whisk to get rid of lumps. Combine the two, fold in some chocolate chips for extra indulgence, pour into the pan, and bake. Voila! Brownies that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Pro tip: Don’t skip chilling them! It makes them even fudgier.
How to Serve Black Bean Brownies Recipe
Serve these brownies warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Imagine the contrast of rich, dark chocolate alongside cool, creamy ice cream — pure bliss! You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for an explosion of flavor. And don’t forget about presentation; even these healthy treats deserve to look fabulous!
How to Store Black Bean Brownies Recipe
These brownies keep well in the fridge for up to one week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. Want to make them ahead? Freeze really well for up to three months. Just defrost in the fridge when you’re ready to indulge! A quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave after thawing brings back their fudgy goodness.
Tips to Make Black Bean Brownies Recipe
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. They blend in more smoothly!
- Swaps: If you’re out of brown sugar, white sugar works too, just be prepared for a slightly different texture.
- Cocoa Power: Use quality cocoa powder for better flavor — it really makes a difference!
- Nut Options: Feel free to toss in some chopped nuts if you’re feeling adventurous. That crunch can elevate these brownies!
- Double the Batch: If you’re serving a crowd or just really love brownies, consider doubling the recipe. They’ll disappear faster than you can say "black bean!"
Variation
Want to mix things up? Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor. Thinking about making it vegan? Swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water). You can even experiment with different add-ins like peanut butter or coconut flakes for a fun twist!
FAQs
1. Can I taste the black beans?
Not at all! The black beans are blended until smooth, and all you’ll taste is rich chocolatey goodness!
2. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! They keep well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later indulgence.
3. How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Rest assured, these brownies are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain any flour. Just double-check your baking powder!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Black Bean Brownies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 standard can black beans (drained and rinsed well)
- 2 pieces eggs (at room temperature) Ensure they are room temperature for better blending.
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (like grapeseed, canola, peanut, or vegetable)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee Decaf is fine; add for depth of flavor.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Natural or Dutch-processed, your choice.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar Can swap with white sugar if needed.
- 3 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips Optional, fold into batter and sprinkle on top.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8-inch square metal baking pan with nonstick foil or greased foil/paper.
- In a blender, combine the black beans, eggs, oil, vanilla, and coffee. Blend until completely smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar until no clumps remain.
- Pour the bean mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until smooth and well combined. The batter will be soft.
- Fold in half of the chocolate chips, if using.
- Scrape the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle remaining chips on top, pressing lightly.
Baking
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top springs back when touched lightly and the center isn't jiggly.
- For cakier brownies, lower oven to 300°F (149°C) and bake for another 3-5 minutes.
Cooling and Serving
- Cool brownies in pan on a wire rack. Chill for 30 minutes in the fridge, or 10 in the freezer.
- Lift out and slice into squares with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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