Fudgy Black Bean Brownies

Chances are you read the title of this article and thought, "Black bean brownies? What???" You probably think it sounds a little strange, but if you can make a mayonnaise cake, why not black bean brownies?

If you are looking for a healthier alternative to the gooey, rich, fudgy favorite, give this a try. They are wonderful and you can feel a little less guilty after indulging in a treat!

Fudgy Black Bean Brownies

1 15 oz. can of black beans, drained and rinsed

7 egg whites, divided

5 oz. unsweetened cocoa powder

1 Tbsp. butter

2 cups granulated sugar

5 Tbps. cake flour

5 Tbsp. all-purpose flour

3 Tbps. espresso granules or coffee extract

1 tsp. vanilla extract

crushed walnuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9x13-inch pan with cooking spray. In a food processor, blend drained, rinsed beans and 2 egg whites. Set aside. Place chocolate and butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 60-90 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth. Set aside. Combine bean mixture, sugar, flour, espresso powder, and remaining egg whites and beat until well-combined. Blend in the melted chocolate. Pour mixture into the pan and sprinkle with walnuts if desired. Bake 30-35 minutes or until the brownie pulls away from the sides of pan. Cool completely before cutting into squares.