Black Bean Brownies

Protein-Rich • Toddler-Friendly • Skin + Brain Loving
These gooey, cacao-rich brownies are made with black beans, banana, and dates for a decadent flavor without the crash. No flour, no refined sugar, just deep chocolate satisfaction and nutrient-dense, toddler-approved goodness.

Ingredients (Makes 8-12 squares)

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 eggs

• 6-8 Medjool dates, pitted (adjust for sweetness)

• ½ ripe banana, mashed (about ¼ cup)

• ¼ cup cacao or cocoa powder

• ¼ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)

• ¼ cup coconut cream

• 2 tbsp ghee (or coconut oil)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• Optional: ¼ cup chocolate chips or chunks

• Optional Swirl: 2-3 tbsp date caramel or sour sugar syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (or 360°F at high altitude).

1. Prepare baking dish: Line or grease an 8x8" pan or loaf pan.

2. Blend:

• In a food processor or blender, combine dates, banana, and eggs until smooth.

• Add black beans, cacao, almond butter, coconut cream, ghee, vanilla, baking powder, and salt.

• Blend again until completely smooth and silky.

3. Add chocolate (optional): Fold in chips or chunks.

4. Pour + Swirl: Pour into pan and swirl in optional caramel or syrup.

5. Bake:

• Sea level: 22-28 minutes

• High altitude (8500 ft): 25-30 minutes at 360°F

• Done when a toothpick comes out mostly clean and center is just set.

6. Cool completely before slicing for best texture.

Notes

Ingredient Benefits:

• Black beans: protein, fiber, brain-boosting folate

• Cacao: antioxidant-rich and mood-lifting

• Dates: natural sweetener with iron, potassium, and fiber

• Banana: potassium, gentle sweetness, toddler-approved

• Coconut cream + ghee: healthy fats for hormone and skin health

• Almond butter: protein and vitamin E for skin, hair, and muscle support

Serving Suggestions:

• Top with coconut yogurt or a drizzle of warm almond butter

• Serve warm with berries or banana slices

• Cut into mini bites for toddlers or party platters

Storage Tips:

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for 5-6 days

• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months

• Reheat: Warm in toaster oven or microwave for 10-15 seconds for gooey texture