Chocolate Squares

Ingredients

• 1 can (540 ml) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 125 ml (½ cup) brown sugar
• 125 ml (½ cup) softened butter or non-hydrogenated margarine
• 3 eggs
• 125 ml (½ cup) all-purpose flour
• 60 ml (¼ cup) cocoa powder (divided: 30 ml [2 tbsp] + 30 ml [2 tbsp])
• 5 ml (1 tsp) baking powder
• 125 ml (½ cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preparation

1. Place oven rack in the middle position and preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Oil an 8-inch square baking dish or line with parchment paper. 
2. Mash the black beans on a plate using a fork or a potato masher until the texture is relatively smooth. Set aside. 
3. In a large bowl, add the brown sugar, butter and eggs. Mix with a whisk (or a fork) for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and creamy. 
4. Add the flour, 30 ml (2 tbsp) of cocoa powder and baking powder. Mix. 
5. Add the mashed black beans and the chocolate chips. Stir just enough to incorporate the chocolate chips and the beans. 
6. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. 
7. Sprinkle the remaining cocoa powder on the chocolate squares while they are still hot. Let cool before cutting into pieces and serving. Variation: If you cut the squares when they are still hot, the texture will be chewier.