Catering Inquiries

Black Bean Brownies

With finals in full swing, we’re here to support your brain health. On Wednesday, April 30th, our Registered Dietitian, Kristina, collaborated with the Brandeis Student Union for their Self-Care Day, focusing on students’ well-being during this intense time.  

 

Our talented in-house bakery created some nutrient-dense sweet treats for students to enjoy while unwinding before their late-night study sessions—brownies! However, these weren’t just any brownies; they contained an unexpected ingredient: black beans. Black beans are a nutritious legume, offering a good source of fiber and protein, as well as several essential minerals, including iron, zinc, and magnesium. The black color of the beans comes from their anthocyanin content, a type of antioxidant that provides anti-inflammatory benefits to the body. 

 

Many students were pleasantly surprised by how delicious they tasted! Black bean brownies are an excellent way to combine nutrition with a tasty treat. Thanks to the added fiber, protein, and antioxidants from the black beans, they are a healthier option compared to traditional brownies. 

 

How to make black bean brownies: 

Ingredients: 

(16 servings) 

1 (14 oz) can of low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained 

2 large eggs 

½ cup cocoa powder 

¾ cup sugar 

1 tablespoon milk (or dairy alternative, such as skim) 

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 

½ teaspoon baking powder 

½ teaspoon baking soda 

½ teaspoon freshly ground coffee or instant coffee 

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 

Instructions: 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9 x 9-inch square baking pan with baking spray and line it with parchment paper.
  3. In a blender, combine black beans, eggs, cocoa powder, sugar, milk, balsamic vinegar, baking soda, baking powder, and coffee. Blend until smooth, then pour the mixture into a separate bowl.
  4. Gently fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips until fully combined.
  5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips evenly over the top.
  6. Bake the brownies until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, approximately 30 to 32 minutes.
  7. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Enjoy your delicious brownies!