This delicious dessert-hummus is so packed with healthful ingredients that you could have it for breakfast or a snack –  anytime that you need to satisfy that sweet-tooth.

Makes about 1 cup 

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans (or chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened baking cocoa
• 2 tablespoons almond butter (or other nut butter)
• 1 tablespoon ground flax seed 
• 2 tablespoons water (more as needed to thin)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix ground flax seeds with 2 tablespoons water and let sit for 1 – 2 minutes.
2. In a food processor, combine all the ingredients.
3. Puree until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.  Add a teaspoon or two of water at a time to create the desired consistency.
4. Serve with banana slices, strawberries, apple slices, raspberries, toasted nuts, whole grain graham crackers or pretzels, etc.

Variations:

• Double chocolate: Add a small handful of chocolate chips.
• Mint-chocolate: Add a few drops of pure peppermint extract.
• Almond joy: Add some shredded coconut and a little almond extract.
• Mexican chocolate: Sprinkle in some cinnamon and cayenne.
• Mocha: Add a pinch of instant coffee.