Peppermint Brownies (Vegan and Gluten-free)

These Peppermint Brownies were on the counter after I was finished photographing them, and my husband Tim inhaled four quicker than I could ever eat one. Not much can get between that man and his brownies.

 

“They’re the perfect balance of fudgy and cakey. How’d you do that?” 

I wasn’t going to tell him that it was the same ingredients he saw on the counter the day before and said, “Ugh. Black beans and cashews. My favorite.” in his most sarcastic voice. I definitely could have thrown an “I told you so” in his face, but instead I just smiled and didn’t tell him the two ingredients he supposedly hates were what was inside the brownies he was loving.

These Peppermint Brownies are both vegan and gluten-free. They are made without any flour or grains at all, actually.  They just have seven simple ingredients and are probably one of the most nourishing brownies you’ll ever make. Unless, of course, you make these or these or these. I think it’s safe to say I love brownies and really love creating healthy brownies.

These particular brownies, because they are made with cashews and black beans instead of flour, have double the protein and fiber of regular brownies. You’ll never notice that little healthy aspect of these brownies but you should know about it. 

These Peppermint Brownies have the perfect amount of peppermint flavor from one drop of peppermint essential oil. It’s amazing how concentrated essential oils are! You can also use peppermint extract, which is found in the baking aisle. If you go that route, I suggest starting with 1/8 teaspoon of the extract and then tasting and adding more as needed. The extract is very strong, also, and a little goes a long way! Because these Peppermint Brownies are vegan and gluten-free, tasting the batter is not a problem. 🙂

I love when I can create a healthy treat like these vegan and gluten-free Peppermint Brownies that you can enjoy over the holidays when un-healthy treats are the norm. It’s okay to have some beans with your brownies. Trust me, you won’t know they’re there. But the extra nutrients you’re giving your body? A good thing. A very good thing.

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If you need a diabetic friendly recipe, try these Keto Brownies!