Recipe: Black Bean Brownie Bites

brownie1This unique combination makes for a moist, dense, and chocolatey dessert that’s also a good source of protein, fiber, and micronutrients. Try them bite-sized for a quick portion-savvy treat. Makes enough bite-sized samples for about 15-20 people.

  • 1-1/2 tablespoons canola oil, plus more for greasing pan
  • 1 cup cooked black beans*
  • 3 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips

brownie3Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 8-inch square pan lightly with oil.

Using food processor, blend black beans until smooth.

Add 1.5 tablespoons oil, egg whites, sugar, cocoa, vanilla, baking powder, and salt; process until smooth.

Coarsely chop chocolate chips. Pour batter into pan, smooth top with spatula, and sprinkle evenly with chocolate chip pieces.

Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until edges start to pull away from sides of pan and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan before slicing into 1-inch bite-sized squares.

*Bon Appétit chefs use cooked, dried beans. If you prefer to use canned beans at home, be sure to rinse thoroughly before using.