High-Protein Black Bean Brownies - Vegan & Gluten Free

💖 Black Bean Brownies: A Sweet Surprise for Your Valentine’s Day 💖

We know what you’re thinking—black bean brownies? Sounds like a no-go, right? But trust us, once you try them, you’ll fall in love. 🥰

Joy Whitehall, one of our amazing Easter Seals volunteers and a test kitchen aficionado, baked two pans of these brownies—one with eggs and one using a flaxseed egg substitute—and both vanished within a day. That’s how irresistible they are!

Why Black Beans? A Love Story of Nutrition & Flavor

Black beans may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when you think of brownies, but they bring a rich, fudgy texture while packing a nutritional punch:

❤️ Protein-Packed: Black beans help keep you full longer, making these brownies more satisfying.

❤️ Fiber-Rich: Supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

❤️ Heart-Healthy: Packed with antioxidants and potassium, which can help lower blood pressure.

❤️ Naturally Gluten-Free: A great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

Food as an Act of Love

At Lift UP, we believe that food nourishes more than just the body—it strengthens community, brings comfort, and shows love. Black beans are a staple in the onsite pantries of the affordable housing buildings we serve, as well as at Preston’s Pantry, ensuring our neighbors have access to nourishing, versatile foods.

Through Supper Club, our nutrition-focused cooking classes, and Lift UP’s client newsletter, we love sharing creative, practical ways to turn pantry staples into delicious meals and treats. Over 90% of those we serve say that the food they receive from us helps them better manage their health. That’s why we customize our delivered groceries for dietary needs like high blood pressure, diabetes, celiac, kosher, and vegan diets—because food should support both health and joy.

A Valentine’s Treat for Everyone

These black bean brownies are the perfect way to reward your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals. Plus, they’re easy to customize:

💘 Gluten-Free: No flour needed!

💘 Refined Sugar-Free Options: Swap sugar for maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar.💘 Egg-Free: Use a flaxseed egg for a vegan-friendly version.

Whether you’re baking for someone special or treating yourself (because self-love is worth celebrating too! 💕), these brownies will have you swooning after the first bite.

Will you give them a try? Let us know if you bake up a batch—we’d love to hear what you think! 🍫✨

High-Protein Black Bean Brownies

INGREDIENTS

• 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil 

• 3 eggs 

• 1 teaspoon vanilla 

• 1 and 3/4 cups of cooked (and cooled) black beans OR 1 can (15 ounces) of black beans, drained and rinsed  

• 1/2 well-rounded cup of packed brown sugar 

• 1/3 well-rounded cup of unsweetened cocoa powder (100% cacao) 

• pinch of salt

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) 

• 1 Tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350F degrees.

2. Lightly grease an 8x8 inch or 9x9 inch baking dish.

3. In a blender container or food processor, mix oil, eggs and vanilla.

4. Add beans and blend until smooth.

5. Transfer mixture to a bowl.

6. Stir in sugar, cocoa, salt and nuts (if desired).

7. Pour the mixture into the baking pan. Bake until a knife inserted into the center of the brownies comes out clean, about 30 minutes.

8. Let cool and cut into 16 squares. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.

9. Cool completely. Store in airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

🥜 Protein Powerhouse: Black beans are an excellent plant-based source of protein, helping to build and repair tissues while keeping you full longer.

💖 Heart-Healthy & Blood Sugar Friendly: Naturally rich in fiber, black beans help lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

🌾 Gut Health Booster: With a high fiber content, black beans promote healthy digestion and nourish gut bacteria, which is essential for overall well-being.

🛡 Antioxidant-Rich for Immunity: Black beans contain powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support a strong immune system.

⚡ Essential Minerals for Energy: Packed with iron, magnesium, and potassium, black beans help maintain steady energy levels, support muscle function, and regulate blood pressure.