Save Rich, fudgy brownies made healthier with sweet potato and black beans — naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber and protein.
I first made these brownies when searching for a wholesome dessert my kids would love. The recipe quickly became a family favorite thanks to the sneaky vegetables inside!
Ingredients
- Cooked sweet potato: 1 cup (240 g) mashed (about 1 medium)
- Black beans: 1 can (425 g/15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Pure maple syrup: 1/2 cup (120 ml) or honey
- Coconut oil: 1/4 cup (60 g) melted or unsalted butter
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Oat flour: 1/3 cup (40 g), certified gluten-free if needed
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Dark chocolate chips: 1/2 cup (90 g), dairy-free if needed
- Optional chopped walnuts or pecans: 1/3 cup (35 g)
Instructions
- Prep the pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan.
- Blend base:
- In a food processor, combine black beans and mashed sweet potato. Blend until smooth.
- Add wet and dry:
- Add maple syrup, melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, oat flour, vanilla, baking powder, and salt. Blend until creamy, scraping down sides.
- Fold in add-ins:
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts by hand.
- Bake:
- Pour batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake for 28 – 32 minutes until set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and slice:
- Let brownies cool completely before slicing into squares.
Save We shared these brownies at our last family movie night & everyone was amazed they were made with beans & sweet potato. Even picky eaters asked for seconds.
Helpful Notes
For extra fudginess, chill the brownies before slicing. Pumpkin puree works as a swap for sweet potato in this recipe.
Allergen Info
Contains tree nuts if using nuts. Check chocolate chips for dairy and soy. Always read labels for gluten-free assurance.
Nutrition
Each brownie provides about 145 calories, 6 g fat, 22 g carbs, and 3 g protein.
Save Enjoy these brownies with a sprinkle of flaky salt or scoop of ice cream. Their rich flavor and nourishing ingredients make them a repeat dessert in any home.
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I substitute sweet potato with another ingredient?
Yes, pumpkin puree works well as an alternative, offering similar moisture and sweetness.
- → How can I make these brownies extra fudgy?
Try slightly underbaking and then chilling them before slicing to enhance fudginess.
- → Are these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, using certified gluten-free oat flour ensures the brownies are naturally gluten-free.
- → What is the purpose of black beans in the batter?
Black beans add moisture, protein, and fiber, contributing to a fudgy texture without overpowering flavor.
- → Can I add nuts to these brownies?
Absolutely, chopped walnuts or pecans add a pleasant crunch and complement the fudgy base.