There’s something wonderfully unexpected about using chickpeas in a dessert, isn’t there? I stumbled upon this Chickpea Blondie recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and I knew I had to give it a try. Picture this: each bite is moist and decadent, with rich chocolate spilling forth, all while being packed with protein and fiber. It’s a sweet indulgence that arrives guilt-free, making it the perfect treat for those of us looking to escape the mundane world of fast food.
As I mixed the familiar scents of peanut butter and maple syrup, I could hardly believe I was creating something so delightfully delicious from humble ingredients like canned chickpeas. Whether you’re yearning for a scrumptious snack or a unique addition to your dessert table, these blondies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Let’s elevate our baking game with this easy, nutritious recipe!
Why will you love Chickpea Blondies?
Deliciously Surprising: These Chickpea Blondies defy dessert norms, blending sweet flavors with nutritious chickpeas for a healthy indulgence.
Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple mixing steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
Nutritious Twist: Packed with protein and fiber, they’re a guilt-free option for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Decadent Chocolate: Rich dairy-free dark chocolate chips elevate the flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Versatile Snack: Perfect for any occasion, they can be enjoyed as a quick snack, dessert, or even a breakfast treat!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These blondies impress guests and family, making them ideal for gatherings or potlucks! Ready for something different? Check out these vegan dessert options for more inspiration!
Chickpea Blondie Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful treats!
For the Batter
• Canned Chickpeas – 1 ½ cup for a protein-packed base that gives a satisfying texture.
• Peanut Butter (Unsalted) – ⅓ cup enriches flavor and adds creaminess.
• Maple Syrup – ½ cup acts as a natural sweetener that keeps it guilt-free.
• Vanilla Extract – ½ tablespoon enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Baking Powder – ¼ teaspoon helps the blondies rise beautifully.
• Baking Soda – ¼ teaspoon promotes a delightful crust while keeping it soft inside.
• Sea Salt – ½ teaspoon balances sweetness and amplifies flavors.
• Almond Flour – ⅓ cup provides a nutty flavor and a gluten-free alternative.
For the Chocolatey Goodness
• Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Chips – ⅓ cup for bursts of rich chocolate in every bite; feel free to use semi-sweet if desired!
Now that you have your ingredients, you’re on the path to crafting these irresistible Chickpea Blondies! Get ready to impress your taste buds!
How to Make Chickpea Blondies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare your baking pan by lining an 8-inch x 8-inch brownie pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
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Rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water, then drain and dry them well with a clean towel to remove excess moisture, setting the stage for a smooth blend.
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Blend the drained chickpeas with the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt in a food processor. Mix on high speed for 1 full minute until the mixture is silky and smooth.
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Add the almond flour to the mixture and pulse for an additional 15-30 seconds. This will give your batter a lovely, nutty flavor and just the right texture.
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Stir in the dairy-free dark chocolate chips; remember to keep aside 3 tablespoons for topping later. This creates little pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout your blondies.
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Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, then sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top for that extra indulgent touch.
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Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crusty. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
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Cool the blondies in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen, and transfer them to a cooling rack to settle further.
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Chill the blondies for at least 1 hour before slicing them into bars. If you prefer a fudgier texture, pop them in the refrigerator for an additional hour.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream for a deliciously indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chickpea Blondies
- Chickpea Quality: Use well-rinsed, canned chickpeas to ensure a smooth texture and flavor. This helps achieve the perfect consistency for your blondies.
- Peanut Butter Choice: Opt for unsweetened, natural peanut butter. It provides a delightful flavor without added sugars, allowing the maple syrup to shine.
- Blend Thoroughly: Make sure to blend the chickpea mixture long enough—about 1 minute—so that all ingredients combine flawlessly, preventing grainy bits in your Chickpea Blondies.
- Check for Doneness: Baking time can vary by oven, so keep an eye on the blondies. They should be golden on top and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is Key: Allowing the blondies to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This ensures they set up nicely, making them easier to cut and more enjoyable to eat.
Make Ahead Options
These Chickpea Blondies are not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps until after mixing in the almond flour and chocolate chips, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the best results and to maintain that vibrant flavor, bake them just before serving. If you need to store baked blondies, allow them to cool completely, then cut into bars and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in the oven briefly. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh-tasting Chickpea Blondies whenever you please!
Chickpea Blondie Variations
Customize your Chickpea Blondies for an exciting twist of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds!
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Nut Butter Swap: Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor. Each nut brings its own unique creaminess!
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Sweetener Alternatives: Replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar, depending on your preference. This gives you the flexibility to adjust sweetness!
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Flour Options: Use coconut flour instead of almond flour for a slightly sweeter and tropical flavor; just be sure to adjust the quantity as it absorbs more moisture.
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Add Some Spice: Toss in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that elevates these blondies to the next level.
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Fruit Infusion: Mix in ½ cup of mashed bananas or applesauce for a fruity twist that will enhance moisture and add natural sweetness.
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Flavor Boost: Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a decadent mocha flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate chips.
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Texture Twist: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness.
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Spicy Kick: Drizzle a touch of spicy maple syrup or sprinkle in some chili powder for an unexpected heat that pairs intriguingly with the sweet elements!
These variations ensure that no two batches of Chickpea Blondies are ever the same, allowing you to tailor this treat to your cravings and dietary preferences!
What to Serve with Chickpea Blondies?
Indulging in chickpea blondies opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that enhance their unique flavor.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries such as raspberries or strawberries creates a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the blondies. Their juicy texture adds a delightful burst in every bite!
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this creamy topping provides a tropical flair that balances the richness of the blondies, making every slice feel like a decadent treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm blondies, creating a heavenly combination of flavors that turns dessert into a cozy celebration.
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Nutty Granola: Adding a sprinkle of nutty granola offers a delightful crunch and extra protein, transforming your blondies into an energizing snack that you’ll love.
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Espresso: A rich cup of espresso complements the sweet chocolate notes, providing a lovely contrast that enhances each morsel’s chocolatey goodness.
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Chia Seed Pudding: The creaminess of chia seed pudding provides a nutty, sweet contrast to the texture of chickpea blondies, making for a wholesome and satisfying dessert spread.
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Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm, melted dark chocolate sauce over the blondies elevates the dessert experience, bringing an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
Experimenting with these delightful accompaniments allows you to create unforgettable moments around your Chickpea Blondies!
How to Store and Freeze Chickpea Blondies
Room Temperature: Store the Chickpea Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Keep blondies in the fridge for up to a week, wrapped tightly to avoid moisture loss and preserve flavor.
Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped blondies for up to 3 months. Just pop them into a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll retain their deliciousness!
Reheating: Thaw frozen blondies in the fridge overnight, or microwave on low for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm and gooey again.
Chickpea Blondies Recipe FAQs
Is it necessary to rinse canned chickpeas?
Absolutely! Rinsing canned chickpeas removes excess sodium and helps achieve a smoother texture in your Chickpea Blondies. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
How should I store my Chickpea Blondies for maximum freshness?
For room temperature storage, place your Chickpea Blondies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their moist texture and delicious flavor!
Can I freeze Chickpea Blondies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! Individually wrap your blondies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. These can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave on low for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fudgy treat!
What if my blondies come out too dry or crumbly?
If they turn out dry, it may be due to over-baking or not measuring the ingredients accurately. Keep an eye on the baking time—once golden brown, take them out! If they do seem too dry, serve them with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream for a delightful moisture boost.
Can I substitute ingredients to accommodate allergies?
Certainly! For nut allergies, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. You can replace almond flour with oat flour for a gluten-free option. Just be aware that substitutions may slightly alter the texture. Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure they’re allergen-free.
Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?
Using fresh chickpeas is possible, but they will need to be cooked and blended. Soak garbanzo beans overnight, then cook them until tender—about 1-1.5 hours. Once cooked, make sure to cool them completely before blending to avoid a hot mixture in your batter. Enjoy your baking!
Chickpea Blondies: Decadent Treats with a Healthy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare your baking pan by lining an 8-inch x 8-inch brownie pan with parchment paper.
- Rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water, then drain and dry them well with a clean towel.
- Blend the drained chickpeas with the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt in a food processor. Mix on high speed for 1 minute until smooth.
- Add the almond flour to the mixture and pulse for another 15-30 seconds.
- Stir in the chocolate chips, keeping aside 3 tablespoons for topping.
- Spread the blondie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick.
- Cool the blondies in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
- Chill the blondies for at least 1 hour before slicing them into bars.