Are you craving a decadent, fudgy brownie but hesitant about the calorie count? Then you're in for a treat! This recipe delivers all the rich chocolatey goodness of a classic brownie, but with a secret ingredient that makes it surprisingly healthy: black beans! Yes, you read that right – black beans! They add moisture and a naturally sweet depth of flavor without sacrificing that irresistible brownie texture. Perfect for a satisfying dessert or a quick, healthy snack, this recipe is a Weight Watchers dream come true. Get ready to impress yourself and your friends with this delicious and guilt-free treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained very well
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or your preferred sweetener, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, adjust to your Weight Watchers plan)
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream (light version), fresh berries
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your brownies release easily.
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Blend the Beans: In a food processor or high-powered blender, blend the rinsed and drained black beans until completely smooth and creamy. This is crucial for a seamless brownie texture; any remaining chunks will affect the final product.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pureed black beans, applesauce, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
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Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.
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Chocolate Chips (Optional): Gently fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Overbaking will result in dry brownies, so keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
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Cool & Serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Tips for the Best Black Bean Brownies:
- Drain those beans well!: Thoroughly draining the black beans is essential. Excess liquid can make your brownies soggy.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference and dietary needs.
- Get creative with toppings: A dollop of light whipped cream or some fresh berries elevates these brownies to the next level.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the wet ingredients for a delicious peanut butter twist.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon or chili powder for a unique flavor profile.
- Nutty Brownies: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 16 servings):
- Calories: Around 150-180 (depending on additions)
- Protein: Around 4-5g
- Fiber: Around 3-4g
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional brownies, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meal plan or a delightful treat for those watching their weight. Enjoy!