Black Bean Cherry Brownies

1 ½ cups of pitted dates
water
One 15-oz can of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 T vanilla extract
3/4 cup whole grain flour (whole wheat, spelt, etc.)
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 t baking powder
½ t baking soda
pinch of salt
½ t. stevia powder (if you desire your brownies to be sweeter)
1 cup frozen cherries, defrosted
1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Measure the dates in a dry measuring cup. Then, put them in a wet measuring cup and add water to the 1 ½ cup line. Blend in high-speed blender with the black beans and vanilla until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Stir in the date/black bean mixture well.
4. Fold in the cherries.
5. Pour the brownie batter into an 8” square non-stick baking pan.
6. Top with chocolate chips.
7. Bake for 30 minutes (or until desired consistency). Let cool before serving.