Name: Brownies
Yield: serves 12
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 1 1/2 cups canned black beans, rinsed and drained.; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 3/4 cup egg substitute; 2 tablespoons low-calorie sugar free chocolate syrup, such as Walden Farms; 2 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream, such as Breakstone's; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted; 24 packets (84g) Truvia or 8 tablespoons granulated Splenda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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BrowniesCookbook cover image courtesy of Random House

Yes, you are reading the ingredients list correctly: there are black beans in these brownies. You really have to taste the brownies to believe them. The beans add moisture and texture not to mention fiber and protein. These brownies have such a great fudgy texture because the cocoa powder and just a little espresso powder are the only dry ingredients (besides a bit of Truvia). For an extra jolt of chocolate flavor and about 15 more calories stir 1/4 cup dark chocolate covered cocoa nibs (such as Kopali Organics) into the batter just before pouring it into the pan. These brownies are even better the next day.

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