Easy Banana Brownies: A Delicious and Simple Dessert

If you love the combination of bananas and chocolate, you’re going to adore these easy banana brownies. They blend the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies, resulting in a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, they’re simple to make, so you can easily whip up a batch when you’re craving something sweet or need to use up some overripe bananas.

Not only do banana brownies taste great, but they’re also versatile. You can tweak the recipe to fit dietary preferences, such as vegan or gluten-free, making them suitable for a wide audience. Banana brownies are also a great alternative to more common banana-based desserts, like banana bread or banana pudding.

Looking for more banana-themed treats? Be sure to check out banana bread cinnamon rolls for another creative way to use up ripe bananas!

Why You Should Make Banana Brownies

We’ve all been there—bananas ripen too quickly, and suddenly you have a bunch of brown bananas. While banana bread is the usual go-to, why not switch things up and try banana brownies instead? The addition of chocolate makes these treats extra special, adding a rich, fudgy texture that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of bananas.

Additionally, bananas act as a natural sweetener and add moisture, reducing the need for extra sugar and fat. If you want to learn more about how to incorporate bananas into different desserts, check out the ultimate guide to making banana pudding, which provides more creative ideas for banana-based treats.

Ingredients for Banana Brownies

These banana brownies come together with a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ¾ cups bread flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 ounces milk chocolate (or dark chocolate for a richer flavor)
1 cup sugar
½ cup butter, softened (substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version)
1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan option)
1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 ripe bananas)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips (milk, semisweet, or white)

This combination of ingredients ensures your banana brownies are sweet, rich, and satisfyingly moist. For those looking to add even more banana goodness, consider trying 3-ingredient banana brownies for an even quicker, healthier version.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Banana Brownies

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect batch of banana brownies:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare a 9×9-inch pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 ¾ cups bread flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Melt 2 ounces of chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop. Allow it to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Use ½ cup butter and 1 cup sugar.
Add 1 large egg, 1 cup mashed bananas, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Stir in the melted chocolate, blending it thoroughly with the wet ingredients.
Slowly fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add the optional mix-ins, such as ¼ cup chopped walnuts and ½ cup chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.

For more inspiration on brownie variations, explore the ultimate guide to making 4-ingredient banana brownies, which offers a streamlined version of this recipe.

Variations and Add-Ins

Banana brownies are wonderfully versatile. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

Nutty variation: Add ¼ cup of chopped pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for extra crunch.
Spiced banana brownies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Extra chocolate: Double up on the chocolate chips for an even richer brownie.
Vegan-friendly: Swap out the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a flax egg in place of the regular egg.

Looking for another decadent dessert? Try the ultimate guide to making butterscotch pie for a pie that’s equally indulgent.

Tips for Perfect Banana Brownies

To ensure that your banana brownies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use overripe bananas: The more ripe the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in dense, tough brownies. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Check for doneness: Banana brownies should have a moist, fudgy texture. Insert a toothpick into the center around the 35-minute mark—it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.

For even more creative takes on brownies, including healthier options, check out sweet potato cheesecake brownies, which offers a unique twist on a classic treat.

Storing and Freezing Banana Brownies

Here’s how to store your banana brownies to keep them fresh for as long as possible:

At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the refrigerator: Keep brownies refrigerated for up to a week, ensuring they are wrapped tightly to retain moisture.
In the freezer: Banana brownies freeze well. Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a quick treat.

For more tips on storing brownies, see this guide on the ultimate guide to funnel cake bites, which also offers useful storage tips for dessert lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use overripe bananas for banana brownies?

Yes, overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.

Can these brownies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure, or add ½ teaspoon separately.

How do I make vegan banana brownies?

To make this recipe vegan, use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of regular butter, and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

How can I prevent my brownies from becoming dry?

Banana brownies are naturally moist thanks to the bananas, but to avoid dryness, ensure you don’t overbake them. Check the brownies 5 minutes before the suggested bake time ends.

Health Benefits of Banana Brownies

Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, making these brownies a slightly healthier treat compared to traditional brownies. By using ripe bananas, you can also reduce the amount of refined sugar in the recipe. Adding nuts provides healthy fats and protein, making these brownies not only delicious but more nutritious.

For a healthier version of brownies, you might also want to explore recipes like zucchini brownies, which incorporate vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.

Pairing Ideas for Banana Brownies

Looking for ways to elevate your banana brownies? Here are a few pairing ideas:

Serve warm with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the rich, chocolatey brownies.
Coffee or tea: The fudgy texture of the brownies pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or herbal tea.
Fresh fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist.

Conclusion

These easy banana brownies are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas while satisfying your chocolate cravings. Whether you prefer them plain, with nuts, or with an extra dose of chocolate, banana brownies are a versatile and delicious dessert that’s easy to make. Plus, they can be customized to fit a range of dietary needs, making them a great choice for any occasion.

Looking for more banana-based dessert ideas? Don’t forget to try banana pudding cheesecake cones, another crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for dessert lovers.