Healthier + Higher Protein Brownies

Vegan Fudgy Brownies: Flourless, High-Protein, and Fiber-Rich

If you’re craving a decadent, fudgy brownie but want to keep things on the healthier side, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you! These Vegan Fudgy Brownies are a game-changer — they’re flourless, packed with protein and fiber from black beans, and lower in sugar than your typical brownie. And the best part? You can’t even taste the beans! They blend in seamlessly, giving the brownies a rich, dense texture while boosting their nutritional value.

Why Use Black Beans?

Black beans in brownies? It might sound a little unconventional at first, but trust me, they’re the secret ingredient that makes these brownies so special. Not only do they create that perfectly fudgy texture, but they’re also an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. In fact, these brownies pack in a hefty dose of both, making them a great post-workout treat or a satisfying snack throughout the day.

Don’t worry — the beans aren’t the star of the show here. They dissolve into the batter, and all you’ll taste is that indulgent chocolatey goodness. You’ll still enjoy the rich, deep flavor of cocoa and the sweetness from a small amount of coconut sugar and white sugar. The beans help cut down on the sugar content, keeping these brownies on the lighter side while maintaining the classic fudgy texture you love.

Healthy Frosting: Optional, but So Worth It

Although these brownies are delicious on their own, I highly recommend adding a healthy frosting for an extra indulgent treat. The frosting is optional, but it’s a simple addition that elevates the brownies and gives them a more traditional "frosted" feel. To make the frosting, combine cacao powder, sugar, vegan yogurt, vanilla, and almond milk. This frosting adds a creamy, slightly sweet layer that complements the richness of the brownies, making them even more irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Brownies

These Vegan Fudgy Brownies are a perfect balance of health and indulgence. With black beans as the base, they’re high in protein and fiber, helping you feel fuller longer and providing long-lasting energy. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it accessible for anyone with dietary restrictions. Plus, the low sugar content means you can enjoy them without the sugar crash that often comes with store-bought treats.

Whether you're making them for a special occasion, as a post-workout snack, or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet, these brownies are sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation. They’re easy to make, nutritious, and most importantly, delicious!

So, next time you’re craving a sweet treat, skip the boxed mix and whip up a batch of these fudgy, protein-packed, flourless brownies. You won’t believe how much better they are for you (and how good they taste!).

Black beans: You can’t taste the beans, they add a lot more fiber and protein to these brownies. You can use chickpeas or black beans in this recipe.

Almond butter: any nut or seed butter works.

Oil: I used olive oil. I recommend using a neutral oil such as olive, avocado, or vegetable.

Vanilla paste: I love using vanilla paste as it adds really good flavorful. However, vanilla extract also works.

Cacao powder: I like using cacao powder for the extra nutrients. You can use cocoa powder instead.

Protein powder: I used the brand Ora Organics in the vanilla flavor. You can use any flavor protein.

Almond flour: I haven’t tested any other flours in this recipe.

Chocolate chips: any chocolate chips will work. You can also leave these out.

Nondairy milk: I used unsweetened almond milk. Any nondairy milk will work. If you aren’t vegan normal milk works too.

Sugar: any granulated sugar will work. I used a mix of white and coconut sugar in this recipe. Be sure it is granulated and not a liquid sweetener such as maple syrup.

The Easiest Brownie Recipe Ever

What makes this recipe even more attractive is just how simple it is. No need for mixing bowls or beaters — just toss everything in a blender! That’s right. No fuss, no mess, just a quick whir of the blender and you’re ready to go. This makes it an ideal option for those who want a healthier dessert without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

Here’s how you do it:

Ingredients:

• Black beans

• Sugar

• Almond butter

• Oil

• Nondairy milk

• Vanilla paste

• Cacao powder

• Protein powder

• Almond flour

• Chocolate chips

Recipe:

Small batch recipe

• 1 15 ounce can drained and rinsed black beans

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup almond butter

• 3 tablespoons oil

• 1/4 cup nondairy milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste

• 1/3 cup cacao powder

• 1/4 cup protein powder

• 1/4 cup almond flour

• 1/3 cup chocolate chips (can do more or less)

Healthy chocolate frosting (approximate measurements):

Makes a small serving. Double/triple for more

• 3 tablespoons cacao powder

• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (add MORE for a sweeter frosting)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste (or vanilla extract)

• 1 heaping tablespoon thick yogurt (the thicker the better)

• Almond milk to thin out (about 2-3 tablespoons)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray. Set aside.

2. To a blender or food processor, add the black beans, sugar, almond milk, oil, almond butter, and vanilla.

3. Blend until completely smooth. Add in the cacao powder, protein powder, and almond flour. Blend again until everything is combined.

4. Add in the chocolate chips and pulse for about 10 seconds. You don’t want to fully blend in the chocolate chips.

5. Transfer to the loaf pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Allow to completely cool before adding any toppings or frosting.

MACROS (these are APPROXIMATES):

Per 8 brownies:

Fat: 12 grams

Carbs: 27 grams

Protein: 8 grams

Per 12 brownies:

Fat: 8.1 grams

Carbs: 18.3 grams

Protein: 5.2 grams