Description

These moist and fudgy banana brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and sweet, ripe bananas. With a soft texture and decadent flavor, this easy-to-make dessert is ideal for using up overripe bananas while creating a treat that satisfies any chocolate craving. Whether you’re baking for a party, an after-dinner snack, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these banana brownies will be a huge hit. Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder (use Dutch-processed for a richer flavor)
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder
2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey flavor)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)

Instructions

Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix the wet ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to combine.
Sift the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Sifting ensures that the ingredients are well-mixed and lump-free.
Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Mash the bananas:
In another small bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Fold the mashed bananas into the brownie batter, making sure they’re fully incorporated. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now as well.
Pour into the baking dish:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the brownies:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the brownies.
Cool and serve:
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before cutting them into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Gluten-Free Option: To make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Desserts
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 180
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg