Indulge in these incredible black bean cookies that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also pack a nutritional punch! With a blend of wholesome ingredients, these cookies are a perfect alternative to traditional desserts, making them ideal for both kids and adults looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat. Each bite is filled with flavor and numerous health benefits that make it easy to savor the sweetness without compromising your well-being.

Bananas add natural sweetness and moisture while also being rich in potassium and vitamin C. Their fibre content helps regulate digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

Apple puree is a fantastic source of antioxidants and dietary fiber. It provides natural sweetness without added sugars. It also contributes to heart health and helps maintain blood sugar levels.

Vanilla enhances flavour and may have antioxidant properties, contributing to overall well-being.

Dates are nature’s candy! They are high in fibre, which aids digestion, and provide instant energy, making them the perfect sweetener for these cookies.

Black beans are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering an excellent source of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium. They support muscle growth, digestion, and heart health.

Oats are packed with soluble fibre, which helps lower cholesterol levels and keeps you full. They also stabilize blood sugar, providing sustained energy.

Rich in antioxidants and minerals, cocoa powder enhances mood and boosts heart health. It’s a healthy source of natural flavour that makes these cookies indulgent without added sugars.

A caffeine-free alternative to cocoa, carob is high in fiber and low in fat. It also contains antioxidants and offers a unique, sweet flavor.

A surprising yet delightful addition that adds a subtle kick while potentially boosting metabolism and adding anti-inflammatory benefits.

Walnuts are chock-full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants. They promote brain health, improve heart health, and enhance mood.

These chips provide a delicious chocolate flavour while being free from dairy and refined sugars, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Ground almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavour while packing extra protein, fibre, and healthy fats.

Why Choose Black Bean Cookies?

1. High in Fiber: The combination of black beans, oats, and dates ensures that these cookies are high in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full longer. This can aid in weight management and reduce cravings.
2. Nutrient-Dense: Each ingredient is chosen not just for flavour but for its nutritional benefits. You get a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to overall health.
3. No Refined Sugars: By using natural sweeteners like bananas, apple puree, and dates, these cookies are free from refined sugars, making them a healthier dessert option for those watching their sugar intake.
4. Plant-Based Protein: Black beans add a significant amount of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with walnuts, this cookie can be a nutritious post-workout treat.
5. Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients: Cocoa powder, carob powder, and walnuts are all rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body, supporting heart health and overall wellness.
6. Gluten-Free Option: With oats that can be certified gluten-free and using no flour, this cookie recipe is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Blackbean Wholefood Brownies

Innes Hope

Brownie points abound in these brownies. Enjoy the relaxing pace of the recipe, with no raising agents pushing you to rush. Take time out to have a coffee or sort the kids – (they’ll be eating healthier too, despite the chocolate chips). The flavour is mild but keeps developing – tastes even better the next day.

Use canned or pressure-cooked beans of any colour – the darkness of cocoa will dominate. We sometimes use home-grown, dried scarlet runner beans which turn a chocolate colour when cooked. Home grown brownies anyone?

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Course Dessert

Ingredients

  

Wet Ingredients

• 2 lrg ripe bananas (1 cup)
• 1 cup apple puree
• 2 tsp natural vanilla essence
• ¾ cup regular dried dates
• 1 can cooked blackbeans (1½ cups)
• some water or cold coffee

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats (packed)
• ¾ cup each of cocoa & carob powder
• ¼ tsp chilli powder
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ⅓ cup dairy & sugar free choc. chips
• 1-2 tbsp ground almond to decorate

Instructions

 

• Break the bananas into a blender, add the apple puree & vanilla. Blend. Loosely chop the dates to ensure no pits. Blend until the mix is smooth.
• Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a brownie pan with non-stick baking paper.
• Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a brownie pan with non-stick baking paper.
• Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a brownie pan with non-stick baking paper.
• Transfer the dry ingredients into a bowl and stir in the walnuts & chocolate chips.
• When the oven’s hot, mix the wet ingredients into the dry.
• Pour into the baking pan, smoothing it out to 1½ - 2cm thick.
• Bake approx 30 minutes until they’re a little crusty on the outside but moist inside.
• Cool a little then rub ground almond across the top, dusting it into the cracks. Cut when cold. Store in the fridge and serve slightly warmed or at room temperature.

Keyword Brownies, plant-based, vegan, wfpb

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