Healthier Cupcakes? Yes and No~

This week NPR did a story on healthier cupcakes using beans as a base ingredient. I decided to try a recipe out and see how they taste. Personally, I thought they were not stellar and probably would not make them again unless I came up with some major renovations! The bean base tasted a little bitter and had a weird aftertaste. Just for the record, I used top organic ingredients including cocoa powder and I have taste buds which love different flavor combinations. That's why I was shocked when I did not like these! It was my first attempt and I did stay true to the recipe given, so if I ever try these again, I will make some recipe modifications and see how they turn out. The idea of a healthier cupcake is worth the exploration!

Chocolate Espresso Cupcakes

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=130191177

Makes 1 dozen cupcakes

For Cake

15-ounce can unseasoned black beans

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

6 tablespoons unsweetened baking cocoa

1 teaspoon instant espresso

3 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

4 large eggs

3/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt

Like I said, this recipe is open for lots of experimenting! Sometimes the search for healthier is a great success; sometimes it is a bust. This recipe is a good effort. My husband just came in, took one bite and said, "mmm...These are good!". So who knows? Just maybe your kids would like these better than the regular version. You know the ones without any redeeming qualities! Is it worth the effort? I think so.

Thank you NPR!

DandelionHeart