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To make Healthy 87 Calorie Brownies, you need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder - 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon baking powder - A pinch of salt - 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional) These ingredients work together to create a rich and fudgy brownie. Black beans give the brownies moisture and a boost of protein. Cocoa powder adds that deep chocolate flavor we all love. Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup help balance the taste, while vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor. If you want to take your brownies a step further, consider adding some optional ingredients. Here are a few ideas: - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) - 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder - A sprinkle of sea salt on top Nuts can add a nice crunch, while coffee enhances the chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt at the end can also deepen the taste. If you have specific dietary needs, don’t worry! There are easy substitutions you can make: - For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey. - If you cannot use black beans, try canned chickpeas instead. - For a gluten-free version, ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free. These swaps keep the brownies delicious while meeting your dietary needs. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions to enjoy these guilt-free treats! To start, gather your ingredients. You need black beans, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, applesauce, and optional chocolate chips. Rinse and drain the black beans well. This step is key to removing any extra liquid and making the brownies smooth. Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift your brownies out later. Now, place the black beans, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, and applesauce into a food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. Take your time and scrape down the sides as needed. This ensures all ingredients mix well. If you want a richer taste, add dark chocolate chips to the batter. Gently fold them in until mixed evenly. Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. This helps with even baking. Put the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. To check if they are ready, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or has a few moist crumbs, they are done. Once baked, take the brownies out of the oven. Let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. This cooling time helps set the texture. After that, cut them into squares and enjoy! For the best texture, make sure to blend the batter until it is very smooth. This helps create a fudgy brownie. Watch the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies. Using unsweetened applesauce adds moisture without extra calories. It also keeps your brownies soft and chewy. If you like a little crunch, add nuts. Just fold them in after blending the batter. Using these steps, you will create delicious, healthy brownies that everyone will love. For more details, check out the Full Recipe. To boost health, you can use less sweetener. Try reducing honey or maple syrup by half. You can also swap in nut butter for a unique flavor twist. This adds protein and healthy fats. Using black beans helps keep your brownies moist and rich. You can even add ground flaxseeds for extra fiber. Simply mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it gels, then stir it into your batter. One common mistake is overmixing the batter. This can make the brownies tough. Blend just until smooth. Another mistake is not measuring the cocoa powder correctly. Too much cocoa can make brownies too dry. Make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best taste. Lastly, don't skip the cooling time. Cutting the brownies too soon can lead to a crumbly mess. For a special touch, serve your brownies warm. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top. This adds creaminess and protein. You can also pair them with dairy-free ice cream for a vegan option. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cocoa enhances the look and taste. You might consider adding fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor. Try these tips to take your healthy brownies to the next level. Enjoy your guilt-free treat! {{image_4}} You can easily make these brownies vegan and gluten-free. Use maple syrup in place of honey. Since the main ingredient is black beans, they are naturally gluten-free. Make sure your cocoa powder is also gluten-free. This recipe gives you a rich treat without any animal products or gluten. Want to add a fun twist? Try mixing in peppermint extract for a fresh flavor. You can also use nut butter, like almond or peanut butter. Swirl it into the batter for a creamy texture. Another idea is to add a touch of coffee for a deeper taste. Each twist makes the brownies unique! Fruits like mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin can add moisture and flavor. Nuts, like walnuts or pecans, add crunch and healthy fats. You can also toss in some berries for a burst of freshness. These additions not only boost nutrition but also make the brownies even tastier. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips! To keep your healthy 87 calorie brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep the container in a cool dry place, like a pantry. This method helps them last about four days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigeration is a great option. Just ensure they are well wrapped to avoid drying out. Freezing brownies is simple and effective. First, let the brownies cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. To enjoy your brownies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-10 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Just warm them for 15-20 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. Enjoy them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat! Each healthy brownie has only 87 calories. This low-calorie count makes them perfect for guilt-free treats. You can enjoy them without worrying about your diet. These brownies are rich in flavor and texture. They are made with wholesome ingredients, so you get a tasty dessert without the extra calories. Yes, you can use different sweeteners. Honey and maple syrup are great options. If you want a lower-calorie choice, try stevia or monk fruit. Just remember to adjust the amount since these sweeteners are often sweeter than regular sugar. This flexibility lets you make brownies that fit your taste and diet. The best way to check if brownies are done is using a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, bake them for a few more minutes. This method ensures you get the perfect texture every time. For the full recipe, follow the steps carefully and enjoy your brownies! These healthy 87 calorie brownies are simple and tasty. You learned about essential and optional ingredients, plus substitutions for diets. The step-by-step guide helps you bake with ease and get the right texture. I shared tips to make them healthier and avoid common mistakes. Don't forget the fun variations that add flavor and nutrition. Storing and reheating them properly ensures you enjoy their goodness longer. Now, get in the kitchen and create a batch full of joy and health!

Healthy 87 Calorie Brownies

Indulge in these decadent guilt-free brownies that are just as delicious as they are healthy! Made with black beans and wholesome ingredients, these brownies are a satisfying treat without the guilt. Perfect for anyone craving something sweet, they're easy to make and come together in just 35 minutes.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option, use maple syrup)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

A pinch of salt

2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for added richness and flavor)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or oil, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.

    In a food processor, add the rinsed black beans, unsweetened cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), pure vanilla extract, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and unsweetened applesauce. Process the mixture until it is completely smooth and well blended, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

      If you desire an extra indulgent treat, fold in the dark chocolate chips to the brownie batter until evenly distributed.

        Pour the velvety brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly to ensure even baking.

          Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

            Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time enhances their texture and makes them easier to cut. After cooling, cut into squares and enjoy!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 9

                - Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, serve these brownies warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of honey for added elegance!