Chocolate Banana Brownies

Name: Chocolate Banana Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large); 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans); Chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baked Collection

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Banana Brownies because they are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and the natural sweetness of bananas. Each bite is a delight, with the brownies staying moist and fudgy thanks to the bananas. I enjoy how simple it is to whip up a batch, making it an ideal treat for unexpected guests or a craving at home. Plus, they come together quickly, allowing me to indulge without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:49:34.696Z

When I first experimented with these brownies, I was amazed at how the bananas not only added sweetness but also enhanced the overall texture. I often find brownies too dry, but the bananas kept them perfectly moist. One of my favorite tips is to use very ripe bananas for an even deeper flavor, as they contribute to the lovely sweetness. Trust me; the fresher they are, the better!

I’ve made these brownies a couple of times for gatherings, and they have always received rave reviews. Everyone is surprised to hear that bananas are the secret ingredient. It feels great to serve a dessert that feels indulgent yet has a healthier twist, making it a win-win for all chocolate lovers!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor enhanced with ripe bananas
Fudgy texture that’s incredibly satisfying
Easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for any occasion

The Role of Bananas in Brownies

The use of ripe bananas in this brownie recipe is not just for sweetness; they play a crucial role in achieving that coveted fudgy texture. Bananas contain moisture and natural sugars, which prevent the brownies from drying out during baking. The key is to use very ripe bananas—those with dark spots and a soft texture—since they offer the best flavor and moisture content. In cases where bananas might not be your preference, unsweetened applesauce can be a perfect substitute, yielding similar results.

Another benefit of incorporating bananas is the added nutrition they provide. Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, which can make these brownies a slightly healthier indulgence. If you're looking to reduce calories or sugar, consider cutting down the granulated sugar by half when using very ripe bananas, as their natural sweetness will make up for the reduction.

Achieving Perfect Fudginess

To achieve that perfect fudgy consistency, be careful not to overmix your batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to air being incorporated, resulting in cakier brownies. Instead, stir gently and just until you see no dry flour—this should take less than a minute. You want the batter to appear thick and a bit glossy before pouring it into the pan, as this indicates the right level of mixing.

When baking, keep an eye on the time, because every oven is slightly different. Start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes; you want to remove the brownies when a toothpick comes out with some moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures they stay fudgy rather than becoming dry or overcooked.

Ingredients

Brownie Base

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Optional Toppings

Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and melted butter together until well combined. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Add Optional Toppings

If desired, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. You can also swirl in peanut butter before baking for a deliciously nutty twist.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

These Chocolate Banana Brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. To maintain moisture, placing a piece of parchment paper or a slice of bread in the container can help keep them soft and fresh. Alternatively, for longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn, and they will last for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy frozen brownies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour. For an enhanced experience, you can warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds; this brings back that freshly baked fudgy texture, making them taste as good as new!

Customizing Your Brownies

Feel free to customize these brownies according to your taste preferences! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture. If you desire extra richness, fold in half a cup of chocolate chips along with the nuts for a double chocolate treat.

For a twist on the classic flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to your wet ingredients. This will amplify the chocolate taste without making the brownies taste like coffee. Alternatively, for a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter for the melted butter for a similar texture while being nut-free friendly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or any other cooking oil as a substitute for butter.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

For an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).