Honey-Bean Brownies

Yep, yep, yep.. Honey-Bean Brownies.. Now why in the world would that ever be? Well, sometimes, a gal just needs to indulge, but instead of guilt, why not feel like your fueling yourself with a bite or two of pure chocolate energy. Following we'll begin with an interview with the brownie...

Me: So, Mr. Brownie, your made with beans?

Brownie: Yes

Me: And are you delicious?

Brownie: Fabulously indulgent actually.

Me: Why beans?

Brownie: As you'll notice, they replace the processed flour and a portion of the fat that a typical brownie would have.

Me: Well doesn't that sound lovely.

Me: Are you worthy of being served to company?

Brownie: Well.. I'm fabulous (as previously stated)... But.. hmmm. I wouldn't serve me to company or take me to the office. However, if you threw on a scoop of Hagen Daaz 5 Brown Sugar ice cream that's a different ball game.

Me: So your good, but not good enough to share?

Brownie: You think that's odd? You're having a double sided conversation with yourself..

Me: OK, carrying on..

Honey-Bean Brownies

1 can (16 ounces) black beans or red kidney beans, rinsed well and drained

1/2 cup raw honey

3 tablespoons butter

1/3 cup baking cocoa

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

Dash salt

1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1/3 cup pecans

Place beans in a food processor and process until fairly pureed. In a small glass bowl, microwave the honey and butter at 70% power until melted; stir until smooth. Add to the beans and process until blended; pulse in the cocoa.

Add the eggs, vanilla and salt; process just until blended. Add the chocolate chips; give a couple quick pulses. You want to stir it up a bit, but not chop up the pieces.

Pour into a greased 8-in. square baking pan and sprinkle with pecans. Bake at 350° for about 25 minutes or until top sprigs back when gently touched. Cool completely. Refrigerate for about 2 hours before cutting. Yields: 9 servings.

These would be perfect pre-packaged and stored in the refrigerator for a healthier grab-and-go afternoon snack at the office.

For a very sweet Valentine's day (or any day that you want to make someone feel extra special) treat, see Melissa at Champagne Thursdays rendition of these brownies! Brownies & Kitchen Gadgets