Fudgey Walnut Black Bean Brownies

Since day one, I’ve always been team chocolate all the way. There’s something about this creamy, deliciousness that’s an instant mood booster. But of all the chocolate treats, there’s just something about a fudgey, gooey brownie that warms the heart like no other. Am I wrong?

Though typical brownies are most certainly good for the soul, they aren’t particularly packed with the healthiest ingredients. For a dessert that fortifies both the body and soul, I created these tasty, fudgey walnut brownies. And the secret ingredient? Black beans, of course!

While this ingredient might turn some people off, you absolutely DON’T taste it in any way. I actually whipped up two batches of these brownies for my CorePower teacher training group and didn’t even announce the hidden ingredient until both trays were absolutely demolished.

Similar to chickpeas, black beans have the perfect texture and mild flavor for sweet recipes. If you’re interested in more healthy desserts using legumes, check out my Chocolate Chip Chickpea Cookie Dough and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Chickpea Blondies.

Black beans add a nutritious punch, as they’re packed with plant-based protein and tons of fiber. This soluble and insoluble fiber promotes healthy digestion and helps to stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure. Plus, these beans have tons of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium that contribute to bone strength and structure.

And personally, in my brownies I need a little added crunch. Walnuts and chocolate are obviously a match made in heaven, plus these nuts are one of my favorite Omega-3 packed foods. They’re actually included in my list of the best, natural brain-boosters (check out the whole list here), but I also just can’t get enough of their flavor.

If you have a nut allergy or don’t love walnuts as much as I do, feel free to omit. The recipe will be just as fudgey and decadent without them. Or, you can substitute with pecans or almonds if you prefer!

And now for the real star of the show: chocolate. This recipe calls for unsweetened cocoa powder, which is packed with powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that positively impact health in my ways. They’ve been seen to reduce blood pressure and inflammation, improve mood and even protect against cancer.

Plus, I love Lily’s Dark Chocolate Chips in all of my baking. They’re dairy free, sweetened with stevia and so tasty. If you can’t find Lily’s, any brand you have on hand works perfectly.

For all of my fellow chocolate fanatics out there, you have to get your hands on these brownies ASAP. And I urge you to whip up a batch for your friends or family, and leave the hidden ingredient a secret until afterwards. They’ll absolutely never guess that these fudgey, delicious treats are also incredibly healthy!