Guilt-Free Dessert
Just because you're in training doesn't mean you should deprive yourself of sweets. The trick is to make them healthier without sacrificing flavor. The next time you're craving something indulgent, try this brownie recipe from celebrity chef Amanda Freitag, a recurring judge on the Food Network's show "Chopped," and Julie Barto, RD, a registered dietitian for the MS Active Wellness Nutrition Program. The surprise ingredient—black beans—help curb cravings by providing a punch of belly-filling fiber and protein.

Black Bean Brownies

Ingredients
1 15-oz can black beans, rinsed and drained very well
3 eggs
3 Tbsp canola oil
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Pinch of salt
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup brown sugar, packed or ¾ cup white granulated sugar
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350⁰. 
2. Spray an 8” x 8” baking pan with cooking spray.
3. In food processor, process black beans until smooth.  Add the eggs, oil, cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, vanilla extract and sugar, and process until smooth.  Add ½ of the chocolate chips, and pulse a few times or stir so that the chips are mixed in.
4. Transfer the batter to the baking pan, and sprinkle the remaining chips on top of the brownies.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean.

Nutrition Per (2" x 2") Serving
130 calories
6 grams total fat
2 grams saturated fat
35 mg cholesterol
98 mg sodium
3 grams fiber
9 grams sugar
4 grams protein

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