Unjunked Black Bean Brownies (Healthy, High-Protein, Refined-Sugar Free)
If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that’s rich, fudgy, chocolatey, but doesn’t leave you with the sugar crash, bloating, or guilt, this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for.
These Unjunked Black Bean Brownies might sound surprising, but trust me… after handing out samples at events, I’ve learned one thing:
Everyone says they’re delicious before they know what’s inside.
Black beans in brownies may raise eyebrows, but one bite proves why this recipe has become a community favorite, nourishing, simple, chocolatey, and shockingly fudgy.
And since we’re now halfway through the 12 Days of Unjunked Holiday Treats, this is the perfect time to add a better-for-you dessert to your list. Seven healthy holiday recipes are already posted, and this one definitely deserves a spot.
What Makes These Brownies “Unjunked”?
✔️ Naturally sweetened
Maple syrup or honey gives you sweetness without the refined sugar crash.
✔️ Flourless & gluten-friendly
Made with oats and black beans, real food, real nutrients.
✔️ Protein + fiber boost
Black beans help stabilize energy and satisfaction.
✔️ Healthy fats only
Coconut oil gives the brownies that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
This is dessert that works with your body, not against it.
Unjunked Black Bean Brownie Recipe
Ingredients
1 ½ cups black beans (1 can, drained + rinsed very well)
2 Tbsp cocoa powder
½ cup large flake oats
⅛ tsp sea salt
⅓ cup maple syrup, honey, or agave
¼ cup coconut oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder
½ cup dark chocolate chips (+ extra for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Add everything except chocolate chips to a food processor. Blend until completely smooth (blend longer than you think!).
3. Stir in chocolate chips.
4. Pour batter into a greased 8×8 pan.
5. Bake 15–18 minutes.
6. Let cool at least 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Store in fridge, they get fudgier after a day or two.
Optional Add-Ins
Customize your brownies with:
Shredded coconut
Chopped pecans or walnuts
A pinch of espresso powder
Sea salt flakes on top
Final Thoughts
These Unjunked Black Bean Brownies are proof that a dessert can be healthy, indulgent, energizing, and unbelievably good, all at once.
And since we’re now 7 recipes into the 12 Days of Unjunked Holiday Treats, this is a great time to try a new better-for-you holiday favorite. If you haven't grabbed the full guide yet, it's available now on the site, every recipe made simple, wholesome, and truly delicious.
👉 Try the brownies this week and let me know your favorite add-ins!
And check out the first 7 recipes of the 12 Days of Unjunked Holiday Treats, already posted and ready for you.
If you want to try healthier holiday desserts, grab the free 12 Days of Unjunked Holiday Treats guide.
It’s filled with real-food recipes your family will love, and your body will thank you for.
Here’s to a stress-free holiday season full of delicious treats, steady energy, and zero guilt.
Michelle Walker
a mom, former educator, and the founder of Unjunk America - a movement dedicated to helping families ditch processed foods, decode food labels, and reconnect with real food. With a warm, no-judgment approach, Michelle empowers parents to make simple, sustainable changes in their kitchens, one meal at a time.
Learn more or join the movement at UnjunkAmerica.com.
