Black Bean Brownies

I've never heard of black bean brownies until a friend of mine mentioned them a few weeks ago.  I like black beans but I was very skeptical about them being in a brownie.  I promise you that you cannot even tell these brownies are made from black beans.  They are moist and chocolately and gluten free ... and practically guilt free!  There's lots of black bean brownie recipes online and I did try another that called for sugar but if you're looking for a healthy brownie for yourself or children then this is it!

INGREDIENTS
1 can black beans (15 oz), rinsed and drained
3 eggs
1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup agave nectar or pure honey
1 1/2 tsp instant coffee
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup chocolate chips plus a few extra for topping if you'd like (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)

optional peanut butter swirl
2 tbs creamy peanut butter
1 tsp agave or honey

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350'.  Line a 8 x 8 pan with parchment paper. Mix the ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth. Spread batter evenly into pan.  If you want to top with peanut butter swirl this step is optional.  Melt peanut butter in the microwave for 20 seconds at 50% power, mix in agave or honey.  Drop by spoonfuls over brownie batter and then swirl with a butter knife.  Top with a few additional chocolate chips (optional).  Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.  Allow to cool, slice into 16 squares.  Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.  Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from http://www.damyhealth.com