Black Bean Brownies
I know, I know…it doesn't sound all that appealing. But, TRUST ME…these are REALLY GOOD! As a Middle School FACS Teacher, I always looked forward to our special Valentine's Day recipe. The 8th graders would get so excited about what they were going to make in class that day…..and then…..dunn dunn dunnnnnnnnnn….the would be appalled at the title of this recipe."Black Bean Brownies!!!??? GROSS!"
That would be my cue to then explain to them that, decadent tasting treats did not always need to sacrifice nutrition. Chocolate brownies do not always need to be chock full of empty calories, sugar and fat. Does it taste great? Sure. But, let's be honest---the "brick in your belly" feeling isn't always worth it in the end.
So, trust me on this one…..give these "clean eating" brownies a chance. They will pleasantly surprise you……just as they ALWAYS did for my students!
14 oz. Can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 Large eggs
1/2 c. Unsweetened applesauce
15 pitted dates
1 tsp. Vanilla extract
1/2 c. Cocoa powder
1/4 Tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. Baking soda
3/4 c. Chocolate chips, divided
Cooking Spray
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350. Line an 8 x 8 square pan with spray, then parchment paper (so that it hangs over the sides a bit), and then spray again.
- Add all ingredients, EXCEPT the chocolate chips, to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of the chocolate chips to the mix and stir. Pour batter into the baking dish and top with the remaining 1/4 cup of chocolate chips.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack and allowing to cool completely.
ENJOY and HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
