Regrettably these brownies blend rich fudgy texture from brownie basics with sweet ripe bananas. This banana brownie recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a deep chocolate flavor with a hint of banana. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up overripe bananas or want a unique twist on traditional brownies, this delicious banana dessert is a must-try.
Unlike regular brownies, these chocolate banana brownies stay extra moist thanks to the mashed banana, making them a great alternative to banana bread. The cocoa powder enhances the deep chocolate flavor, while the bananas provide a subtle natural sweetness, reducing the need for excess sugar. If you enjoy a fudgy brownie, this recipe delivers the perfect texture—soft, rich, and slightly chewy.
This easy banana brownie recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can make it gluten-free, sugar-free, or even vegan with a few simple swaps. Plus, it’s a one-bowl recipe, so there’s minimal cleanup. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat, a special occasion, or just craving chocolate and banana together, these brownies are a great choice.
Let’s dive into the benefits of making homemade banana brownies and why you’ll love this recipe.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of Banana Brownie Recipe
There’s something special about baking with bananas. They bring a natural sweetness, a soft texture, and that unmistakable flavor that makes any dessert feel a little cozier. And when you mix them into brownies? Absolute magic.
Here’s why you’ll love this banana brownie recipe:
1. Extra Moist and Fudgy
Bananas work wonders in brownies, making them extra soft and rich without feeling too dense. The result? A batch of brownies that are gooey in the center, slightly chewy on the edges, and full of deep chocolate flavor.
2. Naturally Sweetened
Since bananas have their own natural sweetness, you won’t need as much added sugar. This means you get a perfectly balanced chocolate flavor without the overpowering sweetness of traditional brownies. For an even healthier twist, you can use an alternative sweetener like coconut sugar.
3. A Great Way to Use Ripe Bananas
If you have a few overripe bananas sitting on your counter, this recipe gives them new life. Instead of making banana bread (again), try something a little more chocolatey and decadent. These brownies are just as easy to make but feel like more of a treat.
4. Easy to Customize
This recipe is super flexible, so you can tweak it to fit different diets or preferences. Want to make it gluten-free? Try using finely ground almond meal or a blend of alternative flours. Need an egg-free option? A simple mix of ground flaxseeds and water can act as a natural binding ingredient.
5. One-Bowl Simplicity
No one wants a pile of dishes after baking. That’s why this recipe keeps things easy—just mix everything in a single bowl, pour it into a lined baking pan, and let the oven do the rest. Less mess, more time to enjoy warm, gooey banana brownies.
6. Perfect for Any Occasion
These brownies are great for any situation—whether you’re satisfying a late-night craving, baking for the family, or bringing a treat to a gathering. They have that classic chocolate and banana combination that always hits the spot.
And if you want to take them up a notch, add some dark chocolate chips or a handful of crushed walnuts for extra texture and richness.
Ingredients for Banana Brownie Recipe
Before we get into baking, let’s talk about what you’ll need. The beauty of this banana brownie recipe is that it uses simple ingredients—nothing fancy, just pantry staples that come together to make something seriously delicious.
The Essentials
- Ripe bananas (2 medium or 1 large) – The riper, the better. Soft, spotty bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the brownies.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds richness and helps create that fudgy texture. You can swap this for coconut oil or even almond butter for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup) – Keeps the brownies sweet and balanced. You can also use coconut sugar for a more natural option.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup, packed) – Deepens the flavor and adds a hint of caramel-like richness.
- Large eggs (2) – Helps bind everything together and gives the brownies structure. If you need an egg-free option, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) works well.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – A small but mighty ingredient that enhances both the chocolate and banana flavors.
- All-purpose flour (¾ cup) – Just enough to hold everything together while keeping the brownies soft. If you want to go gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup) – This is what gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa will make them even richer, but regular cocoa works just fine.
- Baking powder (½ tsp) – A little lift to keep the brownies from being too dense.
- Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended!)
- Dark chocolate chips (½ cup) – For extra melty pockets of chocolate in every bite. You can also use chopped chocolate for a more rustic texture.
- Chopped walnuts (¼ cup) – Adds a bit of crunch and pairs beautifully with both banana and chocolate. Pecans work too!
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top – If you love that sweet-salty contrast, a pinch of flaky sea salt before baking is a game-changer.
That’s it—just a handful of simple ingredients, but when combined, they create something rich, chocolatey, and full of banana goodness.
How to Make Banana Brownies
Making these banana brownies is super simple, and the best part? You only need one bowl for most of the process! Follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll have a batch of rich, chocolatey brownies that are soft, moist, and full of banana goodness.
Step 1: Get Everything Ready
Before you start mixing, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it heats up properly. Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan, and either grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper, leaving some extra hanging over the edges. This little trick makes lifting the brownies out later much easier.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas and Mix the Wet Ingredients
Take your ripe bananas and mash them well in a large mixing bowl. No need to mash them until completely smooth—leaving a few small bits gives the brownies a little extra texture and brings out their natural sweetness.
To the mashed bananas, add melted butter, both sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything gently until the ingredients blend together into a smooth, even mixture.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, mix together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until everything is evenly blended. This helps prevent any clumps of cocoa powder from forming in the batter.
Now, gradually add this dry mixture into the banana mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together. Try not to stir too much—mixing just until no dry streaks remain will keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
Step 4: Stir in Chocolate (Optional, But Worth It!)
For an extra rich, gooey texture, toss in some chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate and fold them into the batter. They’ll melt slightly as they bake, making every bite even more indulgent.
Step 5: Time to Bake
Once your batter is ready, transfer it into the lined baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly to help it bake uniformly.
Slide the pan into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few sticky crumbs—just not wet batter. If it still seems underbaked, give it a few more minutes, but be careful not to overbake, or you’ll lose that soft, fudgy texture.
Step 6: Let Them Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies sit for about 15 minutes before taking them out. For best results, wait until they cool completely before cutting—this helps them set properly and makes slicing much easier.
And there you have it! Fresh, homemade banana brownies that are packed with chocolate flavor and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Pro Tips and Variations
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably excited to dig into those banana brownies, but before you do, here are a few pro tips and fun variations to make them even more delicious (and to help you nail the perfect batch every time)!
Pro Tip 1: Perfect Your Banana Mash
Bananas are the star of this recipe, so how you mash them really matters! If you mash them too finely, the texture of the brownies might turn out a bit too smooth, and we want a bit of bite. Aim for a mash that’s got a few small chunks in it—this little texture adds something special to each bite. If you’re using bananas that are overripe (the browner, the better), don’t worry about being too precise. Overripe bananas are sweet and packed with flavor, making your brownies even better!
Pro Tip 2: Don’t Overmix the Batter
You want your brownies to be fudgy, right? Well, overmixing the batter can turn them into a tough mess. So when you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just enough to combine them. No need to beat it to perfection—aim for a uniform batter with no visible flour streaks, and you’re good to go!
Pro Tip 3: Baking Time Can Vary
Ovens can be tricky, and baking times are never an exact science. Depending on your oven, the type of pan you use, and even the humidity in your kitchen, the baking time might vary. Start checking around 25 minutes, but keep an eye on them. The toothpick test is your best friend—aim for a few moist crumbs on the toothpick, but not gooey batter. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts here!
Pro Tip 4: Make Them Fudgy or Cake-Like
Do you like your brownies dense and fudgy or more light and cake-like? Here’s how to tweak the recipe:
- For fudgy brownies: Use less flour and add more butter. This will make the brownies super moist and dense.
- For a cake-like texture: You can add a bit more flour and reduce the butter slightly. They’ll still be delicious but a bit lighter!
Fun Variations to Try
- Chocolate Chips
Who doesn’t love a little extra chocolate? If you’re a chocolate lover like me, feel free to add a handful (or two) of chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the batter. Dark chocolate or even milk chocolate both work wonders here, depending on your preference. - Nutty Banana Brownies
Nuts make a fantastic addition to banana brownies! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds all pair perfectly with the banana flavor. I love tossing in a handful of walnuts for some crunch, but any nut you have on hand will do. If you want extra crunch, you can also sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking! - Peanut Butter Swirl
Want to take your banana brownies to the next level? Swirl in some creamy peanut butter for an irresistible combo of banana, chocolate, and peanut butter. Just drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter before baking, then swirl it with a knife. You’ll get that perfect peanut-buttery goodness in every bite. - Vegan Banana Brownies
If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly option, it’s totally doable! Simply swap out the eggs for a flax or chia egg (mix one tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). Also, replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. You’ll still get the same moist, fudgy texture without the dairy! - Coconut Banana Brownies
For a tropical twist, toss in a bit of shredded coconut. You can use unsweetened shredded coconut, and it’ll add a chewy, nutty element that works so well with the banana flavor. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try adding a little coconut extract for an even bolder coconut kick.
These pro tips and variations are here to help you get creative with your banana brownies. The base recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or adding your own spin, you can’t go wrong. Enjoy making these brownies, and don’t forget to have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions for Banana Brownie Recipe
Ah, the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the best part! You’ve just pulled your banana brownie recipe out of the oven, and now it’s time to enjoy them. But before you dive right in (and I know you’re tempted to!), here are a few serving suggestions to elevate the experience.
1. Warm and Gooey, Just the Way You Like It
There’s something magical about warm brownies, right? The chocolate chips (if you added them) will melt just a little bit more, making them even more irresistible. Try serving your banana brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the ultimate comfort food combo! If you really want to take it up a notch, drizzle some chocolate syrup over the top. It’s like having your own dessert sundae, with the bananas adding a nice, natural sweetness.
2. With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
For a simple, elegant touch, lightly dust your brownies with powdered sugar right before serving. It’s a quick trick to make them look a little fancier and adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the banana flavor. Plus, it’s an easy way to make your brownies feel like they belong on a dessert platter at a party.
3. A Dollop of Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is another easy way to take these banana brownies to the next level. It’s light and fluffy and balances out the dense, fudgy texture of the brownies perfectly. You could even flavor the whipped cream with a little bit of vanilla extract or cinnamon for some extra flair. It’s like giving your brownies a soft, airy companion!
4. Pairing with Coffee or Tea
You might not think about drinks when you think of brownies, but trust me, coffee and tea make an excellent pairing. The deep, rich flavors of coffee or the light, floral notes of tea (like Earl Grey or chamomile) complement the sweetness of the banana brownies perfectly. If you’re into afternoon tea or coffee breaks, this is the way to go.
5. Turn Them into Brownie Parfaits
Looking for something a bit more showy? Layer your banana brownies with whipped cream, fresh berries, and maybe even some chocolate sauce to make individual brownie parfaits. Not only does this look pretty, but it turns your brownies into an impressive dessert for guests or a fun treat for yourself.
6. Serve with Fresh Fruit
If you’re looking to keep things a little lighter and add a fresh burst of flavor, try serving your banana brownies with a side of fresh fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, or even more banana slices will make for a refreshing contrast to the rich and fudgy texture of the brownies. Plus, fruit adds a pop of color to your plate!
So, there you have it—six fun ways to serve your banana brownie recipe. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with extra toppings, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. Whatever you do, just make sure to savor every bite because these banana brownies deserve it! Enjoy!
Conclusion for Banana Brownie Recipe
And there you have it—your perfect banana brownie recipe, ready to be enjoyed! The rest of the readers who reached this point share my excitement to take their first taste of the final creation. Trust me, these “banana brownies” are everything you could want: fudgy, a little sweet, and packed with that delicious banana flavor that makes everything just a little bit better. The combination creates the ideal hybrid between banana bread and brownies when consumed together in a single bite.
The ease of preparing this recipe attracts me the most. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps, just simple, straightforward goodness. And the best part? It’s flexible. Feel free to personalize your brownies with different additions such as chocolate chips, nuts or by sprinkling cinnamon according to your taste. You can personalize this recipe however you want because it exists to meet your unique taste preferences.
The end result of making these brownies will surely win your heart no matter what the occasion is. Banana brownies are seriously underrated, and I’m so glad you gave this banana brownie recipe a try.
Feel free to give out your brownies to others or hold them all for yourself depending on your desire for personal sharing. The outcome will surely delight no matter your serving method. Enjoy every last crumb!
For detailed information on the potassium content found in bananas, refer to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service’s insights.
Banana Brownie Recipe
Ingredients
The Essentials
- Ripe bananas 2 medium or 1 large – The riper, the better. Soft, spotty bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the brownies.
- Unsalted butter ½ cup, melted – Adds richness and helps create that fudgy texture. You can swap this for coconut oil or even almond butter for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated sugar ½ cup – Keeps the brownies sweet and balanced. You can also use coconut sugar for a more natural option.
- Brown sugar ¼ cup, packed – Deepens the flavor and adds a hint of caramel-like richness.
- Large eggs 2 – Helps bind everything together and gives the brownies structure. If you need an egg-free option, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) works well.
- Vanilla extract 1 tsp – A small but mighty ingredient that enhances both the chocolate and banana flavors.
- All-purpose flour ¾ cup – Just enough to hold everything together while keeping the brownies soft. If you want to go gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder ½ cup – This is what gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa will make them even richer, but regular cocoa works just fine.
- Baking powder ½ tsp – A little lift to keep the brownies from being too dense.
- Salt ¼ tsp – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommended!)
- Dark chocolate chips ½ cup – For extra melty pockets of chocolate in every bite. You can also use chopped chocolate for a more rustic texture.
- Chopped walnuts ¼ cup – Adds a bit of crunch and pairs beautifully with both banana and chocolate. Pecans work too!
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top – If you love that sweet-salty contrast a pinch of flaky sea salt before baking is a game-changer.
Instructions
Step 1: Get Everything Ready
- Before you start mixing, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it heats up properly. Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan, and either grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper, leaving some extra hanging over the edges. This little trick makes lifting the brownies out later much easier.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas and Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Take your ripe bananas and mash them well in a large mixing bowl. No need to mash them until completely smooth—leaving a few small bits gives the brownies a little extra texture and brings out their natural sweetness.
- To the mashed bananas, add melted butter, both sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything gently until the ingredients blend together into a smooth, even mixture.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate small bowl, mix together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until everything is evenly blended. This helps prevent any clumps of cocoa powder from forming in the batter.
- Now, gradually add this dry mixture into the banana mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together. Try not to stir too much—mixing just until no dry streaks remain will keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
Step 4: Stir in Chocolate (Optional, But Worth It!)
- For an extra rich, gooey texture, toss in some chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate and fold them into the batter. They’ll melt slightly as they bake, making every bite even more indulgent.
Step 5: Time to Bake
- Once your batter is ready, transfer it into the lined baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly to help it bake uniformly.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few sticky crumbs—just not wet batter. If it still seems underbaked, give it a few more minutes, but be careful not to overbake, or you’ll lose that soft, fudgy texture.
Step 6: Let Them Cool Before Slicing
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies sit for about 15 minutes before taking them out. For best results, wait until they cool completely before cutting—this helps them set properly and makes slicing much easier.
Video
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 12 brownies
- Calories: ~150 calories per serving
FAQs about Banana Brownie Recipe
I know there are a few common questions that pop up when making banana brownies, so I thought I’d address them here. Let’s dive in!
How to make brownies with bananas?
Making brownies with bananas is super simple! All you have to do is swap part (or all) of the sugar and fat with ripe, mashed bananas. They bring sweetness and moisture to the brownies while also adding a little extra flavor. You mix the mashed bananas into your wet ingredients, just like you would eggs or butter in a regular brownie recipe. Then, fold in the dry ingredients, and you’re good to go. The bananas create a soft, fudgy texture that’s just perfect!
What are the ingredients in banana bread brownies?
Banana bread brownies are very similar to regular banana brownies, but they have that banana bread-style flavor with the richness of a brownie. You’ll need ripe bananas, of course, along with flour, cocoa powder (for that chocolatey goodness), eggs, and a bit of sugar. You’ll also want some vanilla extract, baking powder (or baking soda), and a pinch of salt to round out the flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, throw in some chocolate chips or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
How to make healthy banana brownies?
Making healthy banana brownies is easier than you might think. First, you can use almond flour or oat flour instead of regular flour to make them gluten-free. You can also swap out the sugar for a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar. If you want to reduce the fat, try using unsweetened applesauce instead of butter or oil. Finally, try adding some dark chocolate chips for that rich chocolate flavor without all the extra sugar. These healthy swaps give you a guilt-free treat that tastes just as delicious as the original!
What are the 5 ingredient brownies?
Five-ingredient brownies are as simple as it gets! All you need are ripe bananas, cocoa powder, eggs, a bit of flour, and something to sweeten them up like honey or maple syrup. Mix everything together, bake, and you’ve got yourself a super easy batch of fudgy, chocolatey goodness. You can even add in a handful of chocolate chips or nuts for a little extra crunch. No fuss, just pure, delicious brownies.
Can I make brownies without flour?
Yes, you can! You can totally make brownies without flour by using alternatives like almond flour, coconut flour, or even oats. These substitutions will change the texture a little, but you’ll still get that rich, fudgy brownie vibe. You can also experiment with adding ground nuts or seeds to give them a more hearty texture. These flourless brownies are perfect for those who are gluten-free or just looking to mix things up a bit.
How to make healthy banana brownies?
(Yes, again—healthy banana brownies are a fan favorite!) If you’re looking for a healthier version, try using ripe bananas as your natural sweetener, reducing the sugar content. You can use whole grain flour or almond flour to make them more nutritious. Using dark chocolate or cacao nibs instead of regular chocolate chips will give you that rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar. And if you’re going for a vegan or dairy-free option, simply swap out the eggs for flax eggs and use a plant-based butter or oil.
If you enjoyed these banana brownies, you might also like our 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies, offering a quick and delicious twist on this classic treat.