Chickpea Blondies Recipe

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Cook Time: 25 minutes

Chickpea Peanut Butter Blondies

Ingredients

• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Place the chickpeas in a food processor and blend until nearly smooth.
3. Add peanut butter, brown sugar, flour, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Process until the mixture is smooth. It will be thick.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup of the semisweet chocolate chips until evenly combined.
5. Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips over the top of the dough.
7. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, sprinkle the blondies with flaky sea salt.
9. Let the blondies cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the blondies from the pan and let them cool completely on the wire rack for another 15 minutes.
11. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 154
• Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (10% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 254mg (11% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 21g (8% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 4g (9% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 24mg (2% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (5% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 119mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Chickpea blondies are a healthy alternative to traditional blondies, using chickpeas as the base ingredient instead of flour. This unique recipe has gained popularity for its ability to create a dessert that is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a great snack option for both adults and kids alike. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips masks the flavor of the chickpeas, so even picky eaters won't be able to tell theyre eating a nutritious treat.

History of Chickpea Blondies

Blondies, often called the "blond cousin" of brownies, have been around since the 19th century, primarily in the United States. The classic blondie is a rich, sweet bar cookie made with butter, brown sugar, and vanilla, and it gets its golden color from the use of brown sugar. Chickpea blondies, however, are a modern take on this classic dessert. The idea of using chickpeas in sweet baked goods comes from the growing trend of substituting traditional flours with legumes and beans in an effort to make healthier, gluten-free, and high-protein alternatives. This twist has become a popular option in the healthy-eating movement, especially among those looking for lower-carb and more nutritious dessert options.

Regional Features

Chickpea blondies are most popular in North America, where they fit into the broader trend of healthier dessert options. While the original blondie recipe has roots in American baking, the chickpea version is embraced globally by those seeking gluten-free or vegan alternatives. In places like the UK, where traditional chickpea-based dishes are common (such as in hummus), the use of chickpeas in baking is starting to gain attention. The idea has also sparked interest in plant-based dessert communities, especially in urban areas where people are more likely to experiment with alternative ingredients in their recipes.

What Makes Chickpea Blondies Different?

The key distinction between traditional blondies and chickpea blondies lies in the main ingredient. Instead of using flour as a base, chickpea blondies use chickpeas, which give the dessert a dense, moist texture. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious substitute for flour. Traditional blondies are often made with butter and eggs, whereas chickpea blondies can be made vegan by substituting these ingredients with peanut butter, which helps bind the mixture and adds richness. The result is a dessert thats both lower in carbs and higher in protein compared to its classic counterpart.

Where Are Chickpea Blondies Typically Served?

Chickpea blondies are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual family gatherings to health-conscious events like potlucks, brunches, or bake sales. They make an excellent snack or dessert option for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt of indulging in a typical high-sugar, high-fat dessert. Given their nutritional benefits, they are especially popular among those following gluten-free, dairy-free, or plant-based diets. They are also often served as an after-school snack for children due to their high protein content, making them a healthier alternative to traditional store-bought cookies.

Interesting Facts About Chickpea Blondies

• Chickpeas, the main ingredient in these blondies, are a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber, helping to support digestive health.
• The use of chickpeas in baking is part of a broader trend of incorporating beans and legumes into sweet treats, a movement fueled by the growing popularity of plant-based and gluten-free diets.
• Chickpea blondies are incredibly versatile and can be customized with various add-ins such as dried fruit, nuts, or even spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create different flavor profiles.
• These blondies are a great way to sneak in extra nutrition for picky eaters, especially children who may not enjoy the taste of legumes in savory dishes.
• The recipe can be easily adapted for those with dietary restrictions, offering a vegan, gluten-free, and even sugar-free option by swapping ingredients like sweeteners and flours.

Conclusion

Chickpea blondies provide a creative and healthy twist on the traditional dessert. Their rich, gooey texture and delicious flavor, combined with the nutritional benefits of chickpeas, make them a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier dessert without sacrificing taste. Whether you're serving them to a crowd or simply enjoying a quiet snack at home, these blondies offer a perfect balance of sweet indulgence and wholesome goodness.

FAQ about Chickpea Blondies Recipe

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