Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Black Bean Brownies

Fudgy chocolate brownies with peanut butter chips and made with black beans

Brownies are a timeless baking classic that will never go out of style. When I was first introduced to the idea of a black bean brownie, I was skeptical. Who wouldn’t be, right? Black beans in a brownie sounds like an assault on dessert! Maybe even a baking felony? Although, I have come across some decent black bean brownie recipes, I always could tell they were “healthyish” and felt slightly duped of my craving. I was on a mission to make the best black bean brownie out there and I have to admit, these are pretty dang good. A healthy brownie that is moist and fudgy is almost too good to be true, right? I promise you they are truly amazing and worth trying. These decadent chocolate brownies are gluten-free and are packed with fiber and protein-filled black beans. The peanut butter chips make these simply irresistible (insert Robert Palmer’s music lyrics here)!

Why on earth would you put black beans in brownies?

I know what you are thinking, “Why would you add chalky black beans to one of God’s greatest baking delicacies?” You are probably also thinking, “How is this recipe even classified as a brownie without flour?” Well, I promise you, these black bean brownies DO NOT taste healthy. I actually find them to be more fudgy and decadent than a normal brownie. Black beans are loaded with fiber, nutrients, and protein and hides so well in this chocolaty dessert. Additionally, the added protein and fiber from the oats and black beans will make you fuller longer. They are totally kid friendly too! I challenge you to bring to a BBQ and see if anyone could tell a difference.

My husband has a huge sweet tooth and he absolutely loves these. As he was stuffing his face, he asked me, “Are these healthy?” That is a difficult question to answer because obviously it’s not a bowl of spinach. Although it contains added sugar, my answer is still yes! Black beans, eggs, and oats are loaded with health benefits. The unsweetened cocoa powder is actually very low on sugar and is rich in Polyphenols. What is a polyphenols? Polyphenols are a found in plant-based foods and have a lot of disease fighting components. Simply put, these brownies are a heck of a lot healthier than the pre-made garbage you find at the grocery stores.

How to make Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Black Bean Brownies

I love this recipe because it is super easy and the results are amazing. It only requires the food processor and takes less than 10 minutes to blend together. These brownies are so fudgy and rich, and nobody will know the secret ingredient is black beans. The brownie is always a classic and a huge crowd pleaser

Set your oven to 350 degrees F.
In a food processor or blender, pulse together the rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. The rolled oats replace the flour and gives them a more “cakey” texture.
Drain and rinse one 15oz. can of black beans. Add the black beans, eggs, vegetable oil, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and brown sugar to the food processor or blender. Blend until smooth (about 30 seconds). You can use any type of vegetable oil. I prefer sunflower oil in my baking.
Using a spatula fold in 1 cup of the peanut butter chips into the batter. Pour batter into a greased 7×11 baking pan (or similar size). Top with the remaining peanut butter chips for decoration (1/4 cup). Although the recipe calls for peanut butter chips, you can substitute for any chips you fancy (dark chocolate, milk chocolate or white chocolate). You can also add any type of nut for a healthy crunch.
Cook for 20-23 minutes or until done in the center. Check using a tooth pick or fork.
Let cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting.

How to serve the gluten-free peanut butter black bean brownies

They are absolutely delicious as is, and will store in a container with a lid at room temperature for up 4 days. If these last on your counter for 4 days, congrats and please call me with your tips for self-control. Personally, I think these black bean brownies are delicious as is. They can be served warm and “a la mode” with vanilla ice cream. Serve with fresh strawberries and wiped cream for a great summer dessert.