These brownies pack an energy punch; the use of black beans adds great protein and chocolate gives that extra boost to keep you powering up hills.

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Makes: 20 pieces

Prep time: 15min

Cook time: 18min

Cost: $14

Recipe

1 cup cooked black beans

3 Tbsp maple syrup or honey

1 Tbsp chia seeds

½ tsp vanilla essence

¼ tsp peppermint essence

1 cup gluten free or white flour

1 tsp baking powder

⅓ cup cocoa powder

½ cup dark chocolate chips

½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

¾ cup milk

Method

Preheat oven to 170°C and line a small baking pan.

In a food processor, blend the black beans, maple syrup, vanilla and peppermint essence, and chia seeds until smooth.

In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and cocoa. Mix in chocolate chips and chopped nuts and then stir through black bean mixture and milk until just combined.

Spoon into lined baking dish and bake for 15-20min until just cooked through. Cool in pan then cut into squares.