Incorporating fun food is ultra-important when living a healthy, intentional lifestyle. Eating the 'traditional list of clean' foods day in and day out isn't just boring, it will inevitably set you up for burn out - if not now, it's just a matter of when. So mix it up and give yourself room to enjoy fun foods in moderation, especially once you've reached a good maintenance mode and a body composition you are confident in.
These black bean and oat brownies are fudgy and full of chocolate deliciousness. Better yet, they are so simple to make. Double the batch if you want thicker brownies, or a larger batch in a larger pan.
If you enjoyed this recipe, pass it on to those who might also be up for making some sweet treat fun, and leave your comments below!
INGREDIENTS:
1 (15oz) can (or 1 ½ cups) of black beans (drain and rinse)
1/3 cup oat or brown rice flour or ½ cup oats
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
¼-1/2 teaspoon salt (I prefer 1/2 tsp)
½ teaspoon baking soda (optional; if you like dense brownies, skip it)
¼ cup coconut oil (liquefied; can microwave 15 seconds if solid)
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup (I've also used 1/2c which is great, too - depends on taste)
½ cup chocolate chips (optional- stir in after blending ingredients)
Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Although you can throw all the ingredients into the food processor at once, I've found that mixing the dry ingredients in a separate dish to blend in after already blending the wet ingredients (including beans) creates the best consistency.
Lightly coat an 8x8 pan with cooking spray or lightly dab with coconut oil.
Use a food processor if available (as a blender will leave the consistency less smooth) to combine and blend all ingredients until smooth.
Bake for 17-18 minutes (for 1 batch; for 2 batches, 25-30 minutes depending on oven; you'll want the edges to look darker- don't hesitate to stick a toothpick in there to check the batter consistency if you think you need more time), and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Store in fridge for fudgier consistency!