Cooking with Karina: Salute to the Sweets

These Black Bean Brownies can be decorated for Fourth of July (or enjoyed anytime). Bonus points: This is a vegan dessert. (Photo: Karina Arnold) 

Karina Arnold is a rising junior at the University of Oklahoma who’s passionate about healthy cooking. She provides creative, healthy recipes and tips on clean eating.

Three cheers for the red, white and food! Tomorrow is the Fourth of July, synonymous with friends, family and arguably the most important aspect: food. Like fireworks, the 4th requires savory BBQ, cold brews and classic sweets. Plastic tablecloths serve as the backdrop for the piece de resistance: ribs, burgers, coleslaw, salad, pie, punch, cookies and now, brownies.

In my previous patriotic article, I threw it back to classic eats with a modern twist, including these Angel Food Cupcakes.

This year, when your sister-in-law assigns you to “bring a dessert,” you can bring these Black Bean Brownies. These brownies are easy to bake and require ingredients you already have. Enjoy your family’s surprised, crumb-coated expressions after you tell them this recipe is vegan. Using simple, raw ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those wanting to maintain their health goals. These brownies also pair great with your post-4th hangover coffee the next morning. 

These Angel Food Cupcakes are decorated with red, white and blue food dye to give them a festive Fourth of July vibe. . (Photo: Karina Arnold)

Get extra brownie points by adding cool whip frosting for trying my healthy frosting alternative. Although it will not make the recipe 100 percent vegan, adding cream cheese frosting with starry sprinkles contribute to your batch’s patriotic flair.

Long, warm summer nights call for celebration. The Fourth of July is the perfect excuse to swim, dance, feast and laugh until dawn with friends and family. Stay hydrated and safe this holiday!

Going to watch a Fourth of July parade? Comment below and be sure to check out our 4th parade slideshows tomorrow!