Chocolate Fudge Protein Brownies

This is going to sound strange. You're going to think I'm crazy and you will raise your eyebrows. But, I promise before you get disgusted and think that you won't ever try these brownies hear me out.

The best part about making healthy recipes is getting to test out crazy ingredient substitutes all in the name of making healthy but still delicious versions of some classic favorite foods. I've learned to not tell anyone what they're eating is healthy so they won't question it and not try it. So, since you're going to read this before you try it be brave! I promise you won't even taste the healthy difference in these brownies. 

My mom saw me making these protein brownies and thought I had lost it. She did not think it was possible to make brownies from beans, let alone brownies that actually tasted like brownies. She was pleasantly surprised after trying a piece that she couldn't even tell the brownies were made from beans. 

You will need:

• 7 tablespoons chocolate protein powder, any kind works
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• dash of salt, approx. 1/4 teaspoon
• 2 tablespoons agave, or sugar
• 1/3 cup honey
• 3.5 tablespoons safflower oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 15 ounces Black Beans, no added salt 
• approx. 1/3-1/2 cup chocolate chips- don't have to include this

Rinse and drain the black beans. I found that using a colander works very well for this. Dump beans into blender.

In a blender combine all ingredients except chocolate chips. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Make sure no chunks of beans remain.

Grease an 8x8 pan. Pour the batter in the blender into the pan and spread evenly throughout the pan. Toss in chocolate chips, if including, and spread the mixture as evenly as possible.

Bake at 350 degrees for 18-20 minutes. The brownies should be slightly fluffy on top and look crisp around the edges when done. Promptly remove. Allow the pan to cool for 2 hours, or until fully cool, before cutting. I got 12 fairly large brownies. Keep brownies refrigerated for freshness.

Nutrition per serving (1 brownie):

Calories: 126

Carbs: 18

Fats: 5 grams

Protein: 7 grams

Sodium: 105 mg

Sugar: 11 grams