Healthier Brownies
1 cup black beans
2 eggs
1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
optional – 1/2-1 cup applesauce
3/4 cup cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2/3 cup oil (divided)
1/2 cup boiling water
1 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup chocolate chips
optional – 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Blend together black beans, eggs, vanilla and optional applesauce* until smooth. Set aside.
Ina large bowl, combine the cocoa, baking soda and 1/3 cup of the oil. Add boiling water all at once and stir until thickened. Add the remaining 1/3 cup oil and the sugar and mix well.
Add the ingredients from the blender, the flour and the salt. Mix well again. Add the chocolate chips and optional nuts. Bake in a 9×13 inch pan that has been sprayed lightly with cooking spray at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes.
*Applesauce makes it moister, but also more cake-like. Alternately, instead of the applesauce, you can add 1/4 cup more chocolate chips for moistness.