black bean brownies *recipe*

I am constantly trying to have my cake and eat it to, i.e. eat things I like and still stay healthy. I love desserts and goodies but I also realize how long it takes to tick down those calories on the elliptical machine, so I'm a big fan of the middle ground. These brownies are delish, completely gluten free, have a healthy kick of protein and much less sugar than traditional brownies.

So put aside your skepticism and give these babies a try.

Recipe originally from the Babble Blog here.

Black Bean Brownies

adapted from the Whole Foods Market

1 19 oz (540 mL) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup cocoa
2 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Place the black beans, sugar, eggs, melted butter, cocoa, vanilla and salt in the bowl of a food processor and blend until smooth, pulsing and scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the beans are completely pureed. Remove the blade and gently stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts. Pour into an 8″x8″ pan that has been sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until slightly puffed and set. Cool before cutting into squares.

Now we just have to wait and see what husband thinks about them... 

peace&love,

Jill