Brownies with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate winter indulgence. When winter sets in and snow begins to blanket the ground, one scent instantly transports me to my childhood: freshly baked brownies. But not just any brownies—my grandmother’s rich brownies with cream cheese frosting. Yes, black beans! Her secret to giving those bars a chewy, dense texture and a boost of protein, without compromising the decadence.
She always topped them with a creamy, tangy frosting that balanced the dense chocolate. It wasn’t until years later that I realized that topping was simple but heavenly brownies with cream cheese frosting.
This recipe combines the richness of black bean brownie batter with a luscious swirl of cream cheese frosting, making it a wholesome indulgence perfect for winter afternoons, holiday potlucks, or quiet evenings by the fire. And don’t worry — no one will guess these brownies are made with black beans!
Next, we’ll go into the ingredients list — get ready to raid your pantry.
Table of Contents
Ingredients & Kitchen Essentials
Before we dive into mixing and baking these brownies with cream cheese frosting, let’s gather everything you’ll need. These ingredients strike the perfect balance between rich flavor and wholesome goodness. You might already have most of them in your pantry.
For the Black Bean Brownie Batter
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of salt for balance
Tools You’ll Need
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowls
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Electric mixer or whisk
How to Make the Perfect Black Bean Brownie Batter
This is where the magic happens. These brownies are all about rich, chocolatey flavor with a texture that’s both fudgy and tender. Here’s how to make them step-by-step.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it super easy to lift the brownies out later for frosting and slicing.
Step 2: Blend the Base
In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine:
- 1 can of black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 3 eggs
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- ¾ cup coconut sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Blend until completely smooth. The batter should be creamy, with no visible black bean pieces.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add to the blended mixture:
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp sea salt
Blend again until incorporated. You’ll notice the batter thickening up at this point.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate
Transfer the batter to a mixing bowl and gently fold in:
- ½ cup chocolate chips
You want little pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips over the surface for a gooey top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
This frosting is the silky, tangy crown jewel of our black bean brownies. It’s a classic cream cheese frosting with just enough sweetness to complement the rich chocolate without overpowering it.
Step 1: Soften and Beat
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
Using a hand mixer (or a strong whisk and some elbow grease), beat them together until smooth and fluffy—this takes about 2–3 minutes.
Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor
Add in:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of salt for depth
Beat until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 3: Frost with Care
Once the brownies are completely cool, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the frosting evenly over the surface. You can go thick or thin here depending on your preference—I say go bold!
Let the frosted brownies chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set and makes for cleaner cuts.
Why Black Beans in Brownies? The Secret Ingredient Explained
If you’re raising an eyebrow at the idea of black beans in your dessert, you’re not alone. I remember the first time my grandmother handed me one of her “mystery brownies.” I took a bite, melted into the richness, and asked for the recipe—only to be floored when she revealed the main ingredient. Black beans? Really?
1. Texture That Rivals Traditional Brownies
Black beans add a naturally creamy, dense texture. When blended well, they mimic the richness of flour and butter, giving you that coveted fudgy interior every brownie lover craves.
2. A Healthier Twist
Unlike traditional brownie batters that rely heavily on flour and refined sugar, this version:
- Has more fiber (thanks to the beans)
- Offers plant-based protein
- Cuts down on processed ingredients
You won’t even miss the flour—promise.
3. Allergy-Friendly and Gluten-Free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary sensitivities. You can also make it dairy-free by skipping the cream cheese frosting or using vegan alternatives.
4. Sneaky Veggie Win
Got picky eaters at home? This is your golden ticket. You’re slipping in legumes while serving dessert. What’s not to love?
Serving Ideas & Flavor Variations
Whether you’re baking for a winter gathering or just treating yourself, these brownies with cream cheese frosting are as versatile as they are irresistible. Let’s explore how to make them your own.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm & Gooey: Slightly reheat a frosted brownie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The chocolate chips will melt just a bit, and the frosting turns velvety—perfect with a hot cup of cocoa.
- Chilled & Firm: Pop them in the fridge for a firmer bite. The cold cream cheese frosting has a cheesecake-like texture that’s amazing next to a warm drink.
- Holiday Dessert Board: Cut brownies into bite-sized squares and pair with sugared cranberries, peppermint bark, and candied nuts for a festive spread.
- Layered Parfait: Crumble a brownie into a glass, layer with whipped cream or Greek yogurt, then top with crushed chocolate or berries. It’s like a dessert trifle!
Flavor Variations to Try
- Peppermint Mocha: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract and a dash of espresso powder to the brownie batter. Top with crushed candy canes over the frosting.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Before baking, swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter on top of the brownie batter with a toothpick.
- Orange Zest Twist: Add 1 tsp of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a bright, citrusy contrast to the deep cocoa flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace the eggs with flax eggs, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and swap the frosting with a vegan cashew cream cheese version.
- Extra Indulgence: Stir chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for crunch, or drizzle with chocolate ganache after frosting.
Share Your Winter Brownie Moments
Nothing makes me happier than hearing how these cozy recipes, like brownies with cream cheese frosting, come to life in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for family, gifting a sweet treat, or simply curling up with a blanket and a brownie, I’d love to know how it turns out!
Tried this recipe?
Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @Simplyseasonedrecipes.
Leave a comment below—tell me your favorite variation, whether it’s experimenting with black bean brownie batter, trying a banana brownie recipe, brightening things up with a lemon brownies recipe, getting indulgent with a peanut butter brownies recipe, or going festive with a red velvet brownies recipe!
Or share it with a friend who’s skeptical about black beans in brownies (you’ll win them over, trust me).
Cooking is about creating joy and connection. And these brownies with cream cheese frosting will surely become a winter favorite you’ll turn to again and again.
Black Bean Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowls
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Electric mixer or whisk
Ingredients
- For the Black Bean Brownie Batter:
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips plus extra for topping
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Blend the base: In a food processor, combine black beans, eggs, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla. Blend until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Add cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt. Blend again until incorporated.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Transfer batter to a bowl and gently fold in ½ cup chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth top, and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips. Bake 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- Make frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth (2–3 min). Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and optional salt. Beat until creamy.
- Frost: Spread frosting over completely cooled brownies. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
FAQ:
Can I use cream cheese frosting for brownies?
Yes, cream cheese frosting pairs well with brownies, adding a tangy, creamy contrast to their rich chocolate flavor.
What type of frosting is best for brownies?
It depends on your taste. Popular options include cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a simple glaze. Cream cheese is great for a rich, slightly tangy topping.
Do brownies with cream cheese frosting need to be refrigerated?
Yes, in the U.S., brownies topped with cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth. Bring to room temp before serving for best texture.
Can you add cream cheese to brownies?
Absolutely. Swirled cream cheese brownie recipes are popular and create a marbled look with a cheesecake-like flavor.
What’s the difference between cream cheese frosting and icing?
Cream cheese frosting is thick, creamy, and spreadable, often used for cakes and brownies. Icing is usually thinner and glossier, better for drizzling or glazing.
Can you use cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream?
Yes, but note the flavor and texture differences. Cream cheese frosting is tangier and softer than buttercream, so it may not hold up as well for detailed piping or warm environments.