Chickpea Blondies

I found this decadent dessert while searching for some healthy alternatives to a traditional blondie bar on Instagram. Plandbased RD had a fantastic alternative that caught my eye. This recipe utilizes chickpeas which takes the place of some of the flour and eggs normally used in this dessert. The substitution results in higher protein content, while not taking away from the consistency and chewy texture.

INGREDIENTS  

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 15.5 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/3 cup chocolate chips plus extra for topping (use dairy-free chocolate chips if you are looking for a fully vegan dessert )

INSTRUCTIONS 

• Set oven to 350F. 
• Place all oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt into the food processor and process it into a flour.
• Add in chickpeas and remaining liquid ingredients except for chocolate chips into the food processor and process until batter is smooth. 
• Scrap down sides to allow even blending.
• Once smooth, fold in chocolate chips.
• Spoon out mixture on to an 8×8 baking tray and place it in the oven for 20 minutes.
• Allow blondies to completely cool before cutting into them.

Recipe Credit: PlantbasedRd

Photo credit: Rose Kesting