Easy Flourless Chocolate Black Bean Brownie Bites

This healthy brownie bites recipe has a secret ingredient that adds fiber, protein and a delicious fudgy texture to these little bites. That's right, the secret ingredient is canned black beans. This healthy dessert recipe tastes surprisingly indulgent all while being vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. This healthier version of traditional brownie bites clocks in at 75 calories, 3 grams of fat, 9 grams of carbs, 3 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber and only 2 grams of sugar. Compare that to store bought brownie bites that clock in at 120 calories, 7 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbs, 1 gram of protein, no fiber and 9 grams of sugar. 

We are all about finding ways to intentionally add more fiber and plant diversity into our diet over here. This black bean brownie recipe does just that with four plant sources (black beans, cocoa, oats and almonds) and 3 grams of fiber per bite. 

I can sense the skepticism....do these brownie bites taste like black beans? Do they really taste like brownies? These bites have a rich chocolate flavor, a fudgy brownie texture and just the perfect amount of sweetness. And since there's no raw egg....go ahead, eat the brownie batter. It'll be hard not to! 

Ingredients Needed

Black Beans: One 15 oz can of black beans is what this recipe calls for. If using cooked beans, use about 1.5 cups. Be sure to drain the canned beans before adding them to the food processor. 

Chocolate Collagen or Protein Powder: What a great way to get some extra protein...in brownie form. I used Vital Proteins Chocolate Collagen Peptides for these brownie bites, but feel free to use your favorite chocolate collagen or protein powder. Just be aware that if the powder is sweetened, this will add a bit more sweetness to your brownies. Not a bad thing! 

Maple syrup: This recipe calls for just a little maple syrup to sweeten up the bites. This can easily be swaped for agave nectar or honey if not making a vegan version. 

Vanilla Extract: This adds a nice flavor profile to the brownie. 

Baking Powder: Baking powder helps the bites rise while keeping the brownies from being too dense. Don't worry, they'll still have a fudgy texture.

Sea Salt: Just a little salt in this recipe. Add a few sea salt flakes to the top if that's your jam. We think Maldon sea salt flakes make every dessert better.

Mini Chocolate Chips: Don't skimp on the chocolate chips. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. Either will be fantastic. Make sure to have enough on hand to sprinkle a few on top before adding them into the oven. 

Oats: Rolled old fashoned or quick oats both work just fine for this recipe. Steel cut oats are not recommended. We'll essentially be making oat flour out of these oats as they're mixed in the food processor. 

Almond Butter: Use the drippy almond butter that requires stirring and only contains almonds and salt. Peanut butter works here too, but will add a slightly different flavor profile to the brownies. But you can't go wrong with chocolate and peanut butter. 

Cocoa Powder: No artificial flavors here, just pure, delicious chocolate. We used Hershey's cocoa powder and worked like a charm. 

*Optional - Maldon Sea Salt Flakes: If you have not added Maldon Sea Salt Flakes to your pantry and baking arsenal, you are missing out. They add a touch of class and the perfect balance to complete sweet and savory baked goods. A small box will go a very long way! I frequently gift Maldon sea salt to baking friends. 

Serving Suggestions

These little bites make a perfect healthy dessert idea to bring to a potluck or serve to guests. No one will believe they are healthyish or contain black beans! These bite-sized brownies are a great idea to swap for any sweettooth cravings and as school snacks to add to the lunchbox. Make a batch for the week and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 

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