Salted Tahini Chickpea Blondies

These Salted Tahini Chickpea Blondies provide a nourishing twist on a classic dessert while packing a nutritional punch. A perfect midday treat

The star ingredient, chickpeas, provides a good source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and magnesium.

Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, contributes heart-healthy unsaturated fats, as well as calcium and vitamin E. The use of maple syrup as a natural sweetener, along with almond flour, ensures these blondies are free from refined sugars and gluten. Ground flaxseeds add a boost of omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which have been linked to various health benefits.

Ground flaxseeds add a powerful boost of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. These tiny seeds may help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and aid in digestion. With their rich antioxidant content, flaxseeds also contribute to the overall nutritional profile of these blondies.

This recipe proves that indulgence and nourishment can go hand in hand, offering a treat that's not only delicious but also packed with ingredients that support overall well-being.

Ingredients

- 1, 15oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

- ⅓ cup tahini

- ¼ cup maple syrup

- 2 tbsp plant-based milk

-2 tbsp oil (I use avocado)

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- ¼ cup almond flour

- 1 tbsp ground flaxseeds

- ¼ tsp baking soda

- pinch of sea salt

- ⅓ cup dark chocolate, chopped (Hu gems are my go-to)

- Optional: Add plant based protein powder or collagen and an extra splash of plant-based milk.

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350F.

2. Line a loaf baking pan with parchment paper.

3. Combine chickpeas, tahini, maple syrup, oil, vanilla, milk, almond flour, flaxseeds, baking soda, and salt in a food processor or blender until smooth.

4. Stir in chocolate.

5. Spread in an even layer in the pan.

6. Bake for 30 minutes, or until set. Sprinkle with flakey sea salt.

7. Let cool completely in the tray, or transfer to the freezer until cool.

8. Cut into squares.

These protein treats will stay fresh in airtight container on the counter for up to four days, refrigerator for longer, and freezer for months (if they last that long).