Sunday Dinner - Chocolate Bites

Dr. Oz has filled the Oprah void on my DVR.  He's actually more motivating as I slog through my exercise routine. Nothing like looking at a fatty liver to make you want to do another set of squats. On one recent episode that I watched, Rocco di Spirito showed his black bean brownies.  I was skeptical, but our recent health-conscious dinner guests seemed like the perfect dinner guests for these treats (unfortunately, she doesn't eat dairy & this version uses butter).  I think the key to enjoying these treats is to remove the name "brownie"  because that immediately gives you an impression of texture & flavor (that these are missing). But, they are pretty tasty given that they are under 100 calories. In fact, given the low cal results, you can add mini chocolate chips or sprinkle powdered sugar without guilt.

These brownies are dense - like a ganache.  Ella thought they were a little like Grandma's fudge. Either way, they were devoured.  The kids & Nick loved them. We will definitely make them again.

15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp expresso powder

3/4 cup liquid egg substitute

3 tbsp whole wheat pastry flour

3/4 cup agave nectar

1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1.  Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

2.  Spray an 8×8 baking dish with non-stick spray.

3.  Place the black beans, cocoa powder, egg substitute, espresso powder and flour in a food processor.

4.  Blend until the mixture has no lumps at all.

5.  Add the vanilla, agave and butter.

6.  Blend again until everything is fully mixed.

7.  Pour the brownie mix into the greased 8×8 pan and bake for 20 minutes.

8.  Also, make sure to turn the 8×8 baking pan halfway through.

9.  Turn the temperature down to 300 degrees and bake for another 5-8 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.  Do not overcook.

10.  Let the brownies cool completely until they reach room temperature.

11. Place the brownies in the fridge for 3 hours.

12.  Cut them into 12 squares and serve.

13.  Make sure to refrigerate any leftovers.

Now, on the show I think he said the brownies are about 80 calories each (or 960 for the pan). I cut mine into 16 squares & served sprinkled with powdered sugar & raspberries.