Looking for a guilt-free treat that tastes like a decadent brownie? These gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins are a game-changer. Packed with fiber and free of dairy, gluten, and grains, these muffins are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional brownies. Yes, you read that right – the secret ingredient that gives these muffins their cakey brownie-like texture is black beans!
In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these incredible muffins that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. With ingredients like black beans, cocoa powder, and a touch of brown sugar, these muffins are not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or dessert, these flourless black bean brownie muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
In this recipe, the key ingredients are black beans, cocoa powder, and brown sugar. For those looking to add an extra touch to their brownie muffins, consider the optional add-ins listed below.
Main Ingredients
- 1 15 oz can of black beans, drained and rinsed well
- 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp hot water (you can add 1/4 tsp of espresso powder to this)
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (use a quality cocoa powder)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp kosher sea salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon brewed coffee (optional to enhance chocolate flavor)
Equipment Needed
When making these delectable gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins, you only need a few basic kitchen items that you likely already have on hand. Here is the list of equipment you’ll need to prepare these guilt-free treats effortlessly:
- Blender or food processor
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper or foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking spray
With these simple tools at your disposal, you’ll be all set to blend, mix, and bake your way to moist and fudgy black bean brownie muffins that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Preparation Steps
In this section, I will guide you through the essential steps to prepare these delicious gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins. First, we’ll start by prepping the black beans to create the base of these moist and fudgy treats. Then, I’ll walk you through setting up your ingredients and equipment for a seamless baking experience.
Preparing Black Beans
- Blend Black Beans: Begin by draining and rinsing a 15-ounce can of black beans thoroughly. Place the beans in a blender or food processor.
- Smooth Puree: Add the black beans to the blender along with the necessary ingredients, such as eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Blend until you achieve a smooth puree consistency.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Ensure that the black beans are well blended with the other wet ingredients like eggs to form a creamy base for the brownie muffins.
- Gather Ingredients: Assemble all the ingredients required for the black bean brownie muffins, including cocoa powder, brown sugar, and other essential components for a flavorful and nutritious treat.
- Prep Equipment: Before starting the baking process, set up your kitchen tools, such as an 8-inch square baking pan, parchment paper or foil, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups, and baking spray. Having everything ready will streamline the preparation process.
Directions
Creating these flourless black bean brownie muffins is a straightforward process. Start by blending the wet ingredients, then move on to mixing the dry ingredients, and finally, combine both mixtures for the baking step. Follow these simple steps to enjoy delicious and guilt-free brownie muffins.
Blending the Wet Ingredients
I begin by blending the black beans with some key wet ingredients in a food processor until they create a smooth puree. This forms the foundation for the moist and fudgy texture of the brownie muffins.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, I whisk together the dry ingredients, carefully combining the brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures an even distribution of the dry components for a well-balanced flavor.
Combining Mixtures and Baking
After preparing the wet and dry mixtures, I gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix until well combined. Once the batter is uniform, I pour it into a lined baking pan, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top, and bake until set. Allow the brownie muffins to cool completely before enjoying this delectable and nutritious treat.
Customizing Your Muffins
Flavor Variations
When customizing your flourless black bean brownie muffins, you can experiment with various flavor variations to suit your preferences. Consider adding ingredients like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a dash of peppermint extract to elevate the taste profile of your muffins. These additions can add a unique twist and personal touch to your guilt-free treat.
Sweetener Options
For those looking to adjust the sweetness level of their muffins, there are different sweetener options to choose from. Apart from pure maple syrup or honey, you can try using alternatives like agave nectar, stevia, or coconut sugar. Each sweetener option brings a distinct taste, so feel free to explore and find the perfect match for your desired flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
Eating wholesome treats can still be enjoyable, especially with these guilt-free gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins. Let’s delve into the nutritional aspect to understand the health benefits they offer.
Caloric Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of the approximate caloric content per serving of these flourless black bean brownie muffins:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Protein | 5g |
- Rich in Fiber: The fiber content from black beans promotes digestive health and helps maintain blood sugar levels.
- Protein Source: With 5g of protein per serving, these brownie muffins can be a satisfying snack that supports muscle repair and growth.
- Natural Sweeteners: By using ingredients like pure maple syrup or honey, these muffins offer a more natural alternative to traditional sweeteners.
- Minimized Fat: Despite the indulgent taste, these muffins are low in fat, making them a balanced treat option.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Being flourless, these brownie muffins are a safe choice for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing these delectable gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins, following a few simple guidelines can help maintain their freshness and flavor for longer periods. Here’s how you can ensure your muffins stay delightful:
Refrigeration
After baking these delightful black bean brownie muffins, it is best to store them in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Once cooled, place the muffins in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They can be stored at room temperature for a day but to prolong their shelf life and maintain their fudgy texture, refrigeration is key. You will find that these muffins taste wonderfully decadent, almost like fudge brownies, when stored in the fridge.
Freezing and Reheating
If you want to prolong the shelf life of your gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins, freezing is the way to go. Once the muffins have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the muffins at room temperature or heat them up in the microwave in 30-second intervals for a warm and comforting treat. Whether enjoying them fresh out of the oven or after being thawed, these muffins will still taste like a delightful guilt-free indulgence.
Remember, with proper storage in the refrigerator or freezer, you can have these scrumptious gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins ready to enjoy whenever your sweet tooth calls.
Serving Suggestions
- Marshmallow Ice Cream: Top a warm black bean brownie muffin with a scoop of velvety marshmallow ice cream for a delightful combination of warm and cold textures.
- Whipped Cream and Berries: Create an elegant presentation by adding a dollop of whipped cream on top of a black bean brownie muffin and garnishing with fresh berries for a burst of color and freshness.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Elevate the flavor profile by drizzling some warm peanut butter on a black bean brownie muffin for a decadent peanut butter-chocolate indulgence.
- Freezing Tips: These brownie muffins freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a lined baking sheet before freezing. They maintain a fudgy texture even when frozen and can be enjoyed straight from the freezer, making them a convenient and delicious treat.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the secrets to creating guilt-free gluten-free flourless black bean brownie muffins that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. These muffins offer a healthier twist to satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising on taste. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can enjoy a treat that is both wholesome and indulgent. Experiment with different toppings and serving suggestions to make these brownie muffins your own signature dessert. With the option to freeze and reheat them, you can have a batch ready whenever the craving strikes. Embrace the goodness of these flourless black bean brownie muffins and treat yourself to a delightful snack that nourishes both your body and soul.