How to Make Banana Brownies – A Simple & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a rich, fudgy, and incredibly delicious dessert, banana brownies are the perfect treat! These brownies combine the deep chocolate flavor of classic brownies with the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas, creating a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Instead of throwing them away, turn them into a decadent dessert that’s quick, easy, and requires just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy bananas, these banana brownies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Brownie Recipe

Fudgy and Moist Texture with Rich Chocolate Flavor

One of the best things about these banana brownies is their irresistibly fudgy and moist texture. Unlike traditional brownies that rely heavily on butter and sugar for richness, this recipe gets an extra boost of moisture from ripe bananas. The mashed bananas not only keep the brownies soft but also create a denser, chewier bite, making them feel indulgent without being overly heavy.

The combination of cocoa powder and melted chocolate gives these brownies a deep, rich chocolate flavor. The bananas subtly enhance the sweetness, complementing the chocolate without overpowering it. If you prefer an even more intense chocolate taste, you can add chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top.

Another key to achieving the perfect fudgy consistency is not overbaking. Taking the brownies out of the oven when they are slightly underdone in the center allows them to firm up as they cool, resulting in a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you enjoy them warm or chilled, these brownies offer a perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and natural banana sweetness.

A Great Way to Use Ripe Bananas

If you have ripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter, turning them into banana brownies is one of the best ways to use them. As bananas ripen, their natural sugars become more concentrated, making them sweeter and softer. This makes them a perfect ingredient for baking, as they add both moisture and a natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.

Instead of letting overripe bananas go to waste, incorporating them into desserts like brownies not only reduces food waste but also creates a richer, more flavorful treat. Unlike some banana-based recipes where the fruit’s taste is overpowering, banana brownies strike a perfect balance—allowing the chocolate flavor to shine while the bananas provide subtle sweetness and a soft, chewy texture.

Additionally, using ripe bananas means you can often reduce the amount of added sugar in your recipe. Their natural sweetness helps create a deliciously rich brownie without needing excessive amounts of refined sugar. Whether you have just one banana or several that need to be used up, this recipe is an easy and delicious way to transform them into something irresistible.

Quick and Easy—One-Bowl Recipe with Simple Ingredients

One of the best things about this banana brownie recipe is how quick and effortless it is to make. With just a single mixing bowl and a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time. There’s no need for fancy equipment or complicated steps—just mash the bananas, mix in the other ingredients, and bake. This simplicity makes it a perfect recipe for beginners or anyone looking for a fuss-free dessert.

Using one bowl not only cuts down on prep time but also makes cleanup a breeze. Unlike traditional brownie recipes that may require multiple steps—like melting chocolate separately or whisking dry ingredients in a different bowl—this method streamlines the process without sacrificing flavor or texture. Everything comes together smoothly, resulting in rich, fudgy brownies with minimal effort.

The ingredients are also incredibly simple and likely already in your kitchen. Ripe bananas, cocoa powder, flour, eggs, butter, sugar, and vanilla extract form the base, with optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Since bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, you may even find that you need less sugar and fat compared to other brownie recipes.

Whether you’re craving a quick homemade dessert or need to use up ripe bananas, this one-bowl banana brownie recipe is a simple yet delicious solution.

Customizable with Nuts, Chocolate Chips, or a Healthy Twist

One of the best things about this banana brownie recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you want to enhance the texture, boost the chocolate flavor, or make a healthier version, there are plenty of simple ways to adapt this recipe while keeping it just as delicious.

For those who love extra crunch, adding nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds can give the brownies a delightful texture contrast. Nuts not only provide a nutty flavor but also add healthy fats and nutrients, making the brownies slightly more nutritious. If you prefer a smoother, more classic brownie, you can leave them out or substitute them with something else, like shredded coconut or dried fruit.

If you’re a chocolate lover, chocolate chips or chunks are an excellent addition. Mixing them into the batter or sprinkling them on top before baking creates pockets of melted chocolate, making each bite even more indulgent. For an even richer flavor, using dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate can deepen the overall taste.

For a healthier twist, you can swap some ingredients for more nutritious alternatives. Replacing all-purpose flour with whole wheat or almond flour can add fiber and protein. Using coconut sugar or honey instead of white sugar can reduce refined sugar content. You can even make the brownies dairy-free by using coconut oil instead of butter or try an egg substitute for a vegan-friendly version.

With so many ways to customize this recipe, you can easily make these banana brownies exactly the way you like them—whether you’re going for a classic, indulgent, or healthier treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Banana Brownies

Main Ingredients:

The beauty of this banana brownie recipe lies in its simplicity, with just a few essential ingredients that come together to create a rich, fudgy treat. Each of these ingredients plays a key role in giving the brownies their distinct flavor, texture, and structure.

• Bananas: Ripe bananas are the star ingredient, offering natural sweetness and moisture. As they ripen, their sugars intensify, adding depth and keeping the brownies soft and chewy. Bananas also serve as a natural binder, reducing the need for extra fats or oils.
• Flour: All-purpose flour gives the brownies their chewy texture and structure. For a gluten-free version, swap it with gluten-free or almond flour.
• Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder adds a rich, slightly bitter chocolate flavor, balancing the sweetness of bananas and sugar. Unsweetened cocoa keeps the brownies fudgy without excess sweetness.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and moisture, giving the brownies a melt-in-your-mouth texture and soft crumb. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut oil or plant-based butter.
• Eggs: Eggs provide structure and help the batter rise. They also contribute to the moisture of the brownies and help bind all the ingredients together. If you’re making a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or other egg replacements.
• Sugar: Sugar balances the natural sweetness of bananas. Brown sugar adds a caramel flavor that complements the chocolate. Adjust the amount based on banana ripeness or use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the brownies’ flavor, adding depth and subtle sweetness. It’s essential for rounding out the flavor and bringing all the ingredients together.

These ingredients create the perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and texture, making this banana brownie recipe simple yet delicious. Whether baking for yourself or sharing with others, these pantry staples ensure a treat everyone will enjoy.

Optional Add-ins:

While the basic banana brownie recipe is already delicious on its own, adding extra ingredients can take the flavor and texture to the next level. Incorporating chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans can make your brownies even more indulgent and enjoyable, giving them a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements.

• Chocolate Chips: Chocolate chips (or chunks) melt into the batter, creating gooey pockets of chocolate in every bite. For chocolate lovers, adding extra chips deepens the cocoa flavor. Choose dark chocolate for a richer taste, or milk chocolate for a creamier sweetness. For a unique twist, try white chocolate or peanut butter chips.
• Walnuts: Walnuts add a delightful crunch to brownies, contrasting with the soft, fudgy texture. Their slightly bitter, earthy flavor complements the sweetness of bananas and richness of chocolate. Plus, they’re packed with healthy fats and omega-3s, making them a nutritious addition.
• Pecans: Pecans add a sweet, nutty flavor and buttery richness to brownies, complementing the bananas and chocolate. They provide a satisfying crunch, and toasting them before adding enhances their aroma. Whether chopped or whole, pecans add an extra layer of texture to the brownies.

Other optional add-ins include dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, for a chewy texture, or shredded coconut for a tropical twist. You can also mix in sea salt to elevate the flavor, balancing out the sweetness of the brownies with a touch of savory contrast.

With these optional add-ins, you can easily customize your banana brownies to suit your personal preferences or experiment with new flavors. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with extra ingredients, each version will be a delightful treat.

Healthy Substitutions: Whole Wheat Flour and Coconut Sugar

If you’re looking to make your banana brownies a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor, there are several easy substitutions you can make to tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences or needs. These substitutions not only add nutritional benefits but also enhance the texture and flavor profile of the brownies.

• Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier, fiber-rich version of banana brownies, substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. It retains more nutrients and provides a denser texture with a nuttier flavor that complements the bananas. Since it absorbs more liquid, you may need to add extra moisture, like another mashed banana or a splash of milk, to keep the brownies moist.
• Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural, lower glycemic alternative to brown sugar, made from coconut palm sap. It contains trace minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium, making it a healthier choice. With its caramel-like flavor, it adds a rich, earthy sweetness to banana brownies. Since it’s less sweet than regular sugar, you may need to adjust the amount to taste, but it won’t affect the overall flavor.
• Other Healthy Substitutions: For a lighter version, try using almond or oat flour as gluten-free alternatives to wheat flour. Swap butter for healthier oils like coconut or avocado oil for a dairy-free option. You can also use maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar, but be sure to adjust the liquid content to accommodate these wetter sweeteners.

These substitutions allow you to enjoy the classic flavor of banana brownies while making them a bit more health-conscious. Whether you’re avoiding gluten, reducing sugar intake, or simply looking to add more nutrients, these swaps help you customize your dessert without sacrificing taste or texture.

Step-by-Step Guide – How to Make Banana Brownies

1- Prepare Your Ingredients – Mash Bananas, Melt Butter, and Gather Everything

Before you start making banana brownies, it’s important to prepare your ingredients. This step ensures a smooth baking process.

First, take 2 ripe bananas and mash them well using a fork or potato masher. The bananas should be smooth with minimal lumps. Mashing them properly helps distribute their sweetness and moisture evenly in the batter. Overripe bananas work best because they are softer and naturally sweeter.

Next, melt 1/2 cup (115g) of butter and let it cool slightly before mixing. Melted butter gives the brownies a rich, fudgy texture. If using coconut oil as a substitute, follow the same melting process. Allowing the butter to cool prevents it from scrambling the eggs when combined.

Now, gather all your other ingredients: 3/4 cup (150g) sugar, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 cup (60g) cocoa powder, 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Pre-measuring everything saves time and ensures accuracy. If you are adding optional mix-ins, have them ready too—1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans for extra flavor and texture.

Finally, prepare your baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Having everything organized will make the mixing and baking process quick and efficient.

2- Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients – Combine Mashed Bananas, Eggs, Vanilla, and Sugar First, Then Fold in Dry Ingredients

Once your ingredients are ready, it’s time to mix them properly. This step ensures the batter has a smooth consistency for soft, fudgy brownies.

Start by whisking together 2 mashed bananas, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 3/4 cup (150g) sugar in a large bowl. Mix until well combined. The mashed bananas provide moisture, while the eggs bind everything together. Vanilla enhances the overall flavor.

Next, add 1/2 cup (115g) melted butter and whisk again. Ensure the butter has cooled slightly before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs. The butter adds richness and contributes to a fudgy texture.

In a separate bowl, whisk the dry ingredients: 1/2 cup (60g) cocoa powder, 3/4 cup (95g) flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This prevents clumps and evenly distributes the ingredients.

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon. Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to dense brownies instead of a soft, chewy texture. Stir just until combined, ensuring no streaks of flour remain.

If adding extras, fold in 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts/pecans. These mix-ins add extra texture and flavor.

Once combined, pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Now, it’s ready for baking!

3- Bake to Perfection – Pour the Batter into a Baking Tray, Bake at the Right Temperature, and Test for Doneness

Once your batter is mixed, it’s time to bake your banana brownies to perfection. This crucial step ensures you achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

Start by pouring the brownie batter into a greased or lined baking tray (typically an 8×8-inch pan). Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan, smoothing the top for a consistent bake. If you prefer, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature before you bake. A properly preheated oven helps the brownies cook evenly and rise as they bake. Place the baking tray in the center of the oven to allow for uniform heat distribution.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, but keep an eye on the brownies as every oven is different. The edges should look set, and the top should be slightly cracked. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, they are done. If there’s wet batter, they need a few more minutes.

Once baked, take the brownies out of the oven and let them sit in the pan for around 10 minutes to cool. Once they are slightly cooled, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures the brownies set properly and become easier to cut into squares.

With the right temperature and timing, your banana brownies will come out fudgy, moist, and absolutely delicious!

Cool and Serve – Let the Brownies Cool Before Cutting Them for the Best Texture

Once your banana brownies are done baking, it’s tempting to dive right in. However, allowing them to cool properly before cutting is essential to achieve the perfect texture and to avoid them falling apart.

After removing the brownies from the oven, let them sit in the pan for about 10 minutes. This initial cooling time allows the brownies to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and cut. If you skip this step, the brownies might be too soft and gooey to slice neatly.

Once they’ve cooled in the pan, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the air circulate around the brownies, ensuring they don’t become soggy. It also prevents condensation from forming at the bottom, which could affect their texture.

While cooling, the brownies will continue to set, and the moisture from the mashed bananas will distribute evenly throughout the bars. This is when the texture becomes ideal for serving—soft, fudgy, and slightly chewy with a rich chocolate flavor.

After cooling completely, use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares or rectangles. A clean knife will give you neat edges and prevent the brownies from being squished. For a fun twist, you can also top the brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

By allowing your banana brownies to cool, you’ll get the perfect texture for a delicious, easy-to-cut treat that’s ready to serve and enjoy!

If you’re craving more banana-inspired treats, be sure to check out our Fluffy Banana Pancakes recipe for a light and delicious breakfast option!

Tips for the Best Banana Brownies

Use Overripe Bananas for Maximum Sweetness and Moisture

One of the key ingredients in banana brownies is the banana, and choosing the right ripeness is crucial to achieving the best flavor and texture. Using overripe bananas is the secret to getting the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture in your brownies.

Overripe bananas, those with brown spots or even fully browned peels, are perfect for baking. As bananas ripen, their starches break down into natural sugars, making them sweeter and more flavorful. This naturally enhances the taste of your brownies, so you don’t need to rely on as much added sugar. Overripe bananas also provide a moisture boost, which helps keep the brownies soft and fudgy, rather than dry or crumbly.

Additionally, the texture of overripe bananas makes them easier to mash, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the brownie batter. The smoother texture contributes to an even consistency in the brownies, ensuring that every bite is rich and moist.

If you have bananas that are too ripe to eat raw, don’t throw them away! Instead, use them in your baking. Not only does this reduce food waste, but it also gives you the perfect base for delicious banana brownies. If your bananas are too soft or have too many black spots, that’s exactly what you want—they’ll blend into the batter beautifully, creating the ultimate soft and sweet texture.

So, next time you’re baking banana brownies, don’t hesitate to use those overripe bananas—they’re the key to achieving the perfect texture and maximum flavor!

Don’t Overmix the Batter to Keep the Brownies Fudgy

When making banana brownies, the texture is everything. To achieve that ideal fudgy consistency, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense, dry, or cakey brownies, which is not what you want when you’re aiming for that rich, moist, fudgy texture.

The key to a fudgy brownie lies in how you combine the wet and dry ingredients. After adding the dry ingredients into the wet mixture (bananas, eggs, sugar, and melted butter), you want to mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing incorporates too much air into the batter, which causes the gluten in the flour to develop too much, leading to a tougher texture. This is especially important when using ingredients like whole wheat flour, which can make the batter denser if overworked.

To prevent overmixing, use a gentle folding technique with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir the batter just enough to ensure there are no dry spots of flour, but stop as soon as everything is combined. The less you handle the batter, the more tender and moist your brownies will be.

It’s also important to remember that brownies continue to bake a little bit after they’re taken out of the oven. Overmixing the batter and baking for too long can make them dry even if they seem perfect in the oven. So, mixing carefully and avoiding overworking the batter gives you fudgy, rich brownies with the perfect texture.

In summary, for soft and fudgy banana brownies, mix just until combined, and be gentle with your stirring. This will help maintain that irresistible, gooey center and rich texture you’re aiming for!

Adjust the Sweetness by Reducing Sugar if Using Extra Ripe Bananas

When making banana brownies, the ripeness of your bananas can significantly affect the level of sweetness in the final product. If you’re using extra ripe bananas, there’s often no need to add as much sugar to the batter, as overripe bananas are naturally much sweeter. Their sugars break down as they ripen, making them an excellent natural sweetener.

Overripe bananas, with their brown spots and soft texture, have a higher sugar content, meaning they’ll contribute more sweetness to the batter. If your bananas are very ripe, you can reduce the amount of added sugar in your recipe without sacrificing flavor. For example, instead of using 3/4 cup (150g) of sugar, you might reduce it to 1/2 cup (100g) or even less, depending on your preference for sweetness.

Reducing the sugar will not only make the brownies less sugary but also allow the natural flavor of the bananas to shine through. If you’re concerned about the brownies being too bland, feel free to taste the batter before baking. If it needs a little extra sweetness, you can always add a small amount of sugar, honey, or maple syrup to balance the flavor.

Another advantage of using overripe bananas is that they bring moisture to the brownies, helping to keep them soft and fudgy even with the reduced sugar content. Since the bananas already provide natural sweetness and moisture, the brownies will still turn out delicious without being overly sugary.

In summary, if you’re using extra ripe bananas, feel free to reduce the sugar in your recipe for a healthier and more balanced treat, without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Store Leftovers in an Airtight Container for Freshness

To keep your banana brownies fresh for as long as possible, it’s important to store them properly. After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely before storing them. If stored while still warm, they may become soggy or lose their ideal texture.

After they have cooled, store the brownies in a container that is airtight. This helps lock in moisture, ensuring that the brownies stay soft and fudgy. An airtight container prevents air from getting in, which can dry out the brownies and affect their texture. A plastic or glass container with a secure lid works well, or you can wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a container.

If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers within a few days, you can store them in the fridge to help preserve their freshness for up to a week. The cooler temperature slows down the process of spoilage while keeping the brownies moist. Just be sure to allow them to return to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

To extend their shelf life further, you can freeze the brownies. Cut them into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let brownies thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

By storing your banana brownies properly, you can enjoy them for days or even weeks while maintaining their delicious freshness and soft, fudgy texture.

Variations – Make It Your Own!

One of the best things about banana brownies is how easy they are to customize. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, dietary preferences, or even experiment with different flavors. Here are some creative and tasty variations to explore!

Healthy Banana Brownies

If you’re looking to make a healthier version of banana brownies, there are simple swaps you can make. Instead of regular all-purpose flour, use almond flour for a lower-carb option that’s rich in healthy fats and protein. Coconut sugar can replace traditional brown sugar for a more natural, lower glycemic sweetener. Use dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa) instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor, less sugar, and a healthier treat. This version will still satisfy your chocolate cravings while being more nutritious.

Extra Chocolatey Version

For chocolate lovers, you can boost the chocolate flavor in your banana brownies even further. Try adding melted chocolate to the batter along with cocoa powder for an ultra-chocolatey treat. Melt about 4 ounces of dark or milk chocolate and stir it into the batter after mixing the wet ingredients. You can also increase the amount of cocoa powder if you prefer an even deeper, richer chocolate taste. This variation is perfect for those who want a more decadent brownie experience.

Nutty Brownies

Add some texture to your banana brownies by stirring in walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Nuts give your brownies a satisfying crunch and complement the natural sweetness of the bananas. Simply chop your favorite nuts and fold them into the batter just before baking. Not only do nuts add a delightful crunch, but they also provide healthy fats and an extra layer of flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily make your banana brownies gluten-free. Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many gluten-free flour blends work just like regular flour, providing the same rich, fudgy texture in baking. Just ensure you use a blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum, as this helps provide structure and elasticity to the batter. With this swap, you can enjoy delicious gluten-free banana brownies without sacrificing flavor.

Try these variations to customize banana brownies to your taste and dietary needs while keeping the classic fudgy goodness. Make it your own and have fun with different flavors!

These banana brownies are simple to make, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and rich chocolate flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or a more indulgent treat, this recipe can be customized to fit your preferences. We invite you to try making them and share your experience—let us know how your batch turns out! And if you love banana desserts, be sure to explore more tasty recipes on our blog for even more sweet inspiration. Happy baking!

If you’re looking for more banana recipe ideas, check out this Banana Bread Recipe for another delicious and easy way to use ripe bananas in your baking!