Chick Pea Blonde Brownies- Vegan, Gluten-Free Dessert

Do you ever have those moments where you just NEED dessert? You might be surprised that I actually do. But, I really dislike that feeling that a typical processed and loaded with sugar dessert gives me. You know, like the tiredness, headache, feeling bloated and inflamed, getting a foggy brain etc. Maybe you don't feel like that after eating dessert, maybe it's just me? Regardless, you'll want to keep reading because these non traditional blonde brownies that I'm about to share is one that you'll want to keep making. You have probably spent time visiting many food blogs or scrolling through Pinterest drooling over picture after picture of whatever you searched. Please tell me that I'm not the only one? I most definitely do that! I have to say some of the recipes that I actually try are not anything like what the Pinterest picture shows and you wonder how in the world did that blogger get their recipe to come out so perfect? Sometimes, I even end up wasting ingredients because it turned out so bad that it's not even edible. I promise, these chickpea blonde brownies will not disappoint you like that! Make these the next time you're asked to bring dessert to a party and don't tell anyone your secret ingredients and see how they react!

Now I'm totally aware that these go against my no sugar added rule that I follow most of the time, so these are definitely considered a TREAT. Don't go eating the whole pan just because they are "healthier." However, they do have fiber and protein so you'll feel full and satisfied after one serving and won't feel the need for more (unless you catch your willpower in a weak moment!) What is great about these is that they don't have any weird ingredients. So you won't be hunting from store to store trying to find that 1 odd ingredient that you don't have or have never bought before. Oh, and even though these are vegan and gluten-free, they're still a treat that EVERYONE will enjoy! If you have family members that choke when they hear the word "vegan" or "gluten-free" then don't tell them. What they don't know won't hurt. Nutrition Information: Serves: 16 Serving size: 1/16th of the recipe Calories: 120 Fat: 6g Carbs: 13.5g Sugars: 6.9g Fiber: 1.8g Protein: 3.5g

INGREDIENTS

• A dab of olive oil or coconut oil to grease the pan

• 1 can (15 oz) organic chickpeas, rinsed and drained

• 1/2 cup all natural peanut butter, no sugar added (I buy mine from Aldi)

• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or agave nectar (you can also use honey)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/3 cup vegan (or regular) chocolate chips (I prefer Pascha Organic Chocolate Chips)

• 1/4 cup walnuts chopped (optional) INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Grease 8x8 inch pan with a dab of oil. I just put some oil on a paper towel and spread around all sides of the pan until it's covered. 3. Add all ingredients into a food processor except the chocolate chips and nuts. Mix the ingredients in the processor until it's smooth. 4. Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts with a spatula.

• WARNING: Batter will be thick, gooey and super delicious! You may want to try a few uncooked spoonfuls! Just make sure you have the willpower to stop before you find you're standing infront of an empty bowl! 5. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the top with more chocolate chips if desired! 6. Bake in oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. The batter may look gooey on the inside, but that's ok, that's the best part! Cool pan for 20 minutes on a wire rack. Cut into 16 squares and serve! Can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week!

ENJOY!

#Treats