
This fudge is rich, dense, chocolaty, sweet, filled with crunchy walnuts and protein-packed! Where does the protein come for, you ask? BLACK BEANS! Don't worry, the chocolate definitely overpowers the black beans in flavor.
Place the black beans, maple syrup, nut butter, dates, coconut oil and vanilla extract in a food processor and process until smooth (not all of the black bean skins will break down, that’s okay!).
Using a spatula, scrape the mixture into a medium sized bowl. Add the cocoa powder and mix with rubber spatula until fully combined. Then, fold in the optional walnuts.
Transfer mixture to a parchment paper lined square baking dish, pressing down to form an even layer. Place in the freezer until somewhat firm, about 1 hour.
Remove from freeze and let thaw for 5 minutes. Cut into squares, top with optional garnishes and enjoy!
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes: To make homemade sprinkles, blend a cooked beet and a tbsp of water together until it becomes a smooth paste. Add just a touch of the beet paste to a small bowl of coconut shreds. Mix until coconut shreds are evenly coated.