Ever wondered how to turn overripe bananas into a decadent treat? Discover the ultimate banana brownie recipe that will change your dessert game forever!
This recipe combines the rich texture of brownies with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas. In just one hour, you can make 16 squares of moist banana brownies. Everyone will ask for seconds.
With a 4.96 rating from 526 votes, this recipe is a hit. Each serving has 221 calories of pure indulgence. It’s perfect for any occasion. And you only need one overripe banana to make these treats.
Whether you’re an expert or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow. Prep takes 10 minutes and baking is 40 minutes. You’ll have irresistible brownies ready to eat. The ingredients include butter, chocolate chips, eggs, flour, and a ripe banana.
Key Takeaways
- Create 16 squares of moist banana brownies in just one hour
- Recipe boasts a 4.96 rating from 526 votes
- Only one overripe banana needed for the recipe
- Each serving contains 221 calories
- 10 minutes prep time, 40 minutes cook time
- Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions
- Optional add-ins like walnuts for extra crunch
Introducing the Perfect Banana Brownie Blend
Get ready for a treat that combines the best of both worlds. Our banana chocolate brownies mix the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the sweet taste of ripe bananas. This creates a mouthwatering dessert that you’ll adore.
Our recipe includes 175g of salted butter, 180g of light brown soft sugar, and 200g of dark chocolate. We add 2 eggs and 2 large, over-ripe bananas for the right consistency. The dry mix has 100g of self-raising flour, 1 tbsp of cocoa powder, and 1 tbsp of plain Horlicks powder for extra flavor.
This banana brownie recipe is special because it’s gluten-free, egg-free, and oil-free. It’s perfect for different diets. We’ve used ripe bananas and coconut sugar instead of refined sugar, making it great for health-conscious eaters.
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture
- Opt for dark chocolate with high cocoa content for added antioxidants
- Try almond flour instead of oat flour for a different texture
- Enhance sweetness with maple syrup or additional chocolate chips
These brownies bake in just 35 minutes, so they’re quick to make. Store them in the fridge, separated by parchment paper, for up to a week. Enjoy the perfect mix of banana and chocolate goodness!
Why Banana Brownies Are the Ultimate Treat
Banana brownies mix two favorite desserts into one. They blend the taste of banana bread with chocolate brownies. This creates a treat that’s both familiar and exciting.
Combining Two Beloved Desserts
This recipe takes the rich taste of brownies and adds sweet ripe bananas. The result is a dessert that’s both new and comforting.
A Delightful Way to Use Overripe Bananas
Don’t throw away overripe bananas! Use them in this recipe. You’ll need 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed into ⅔ cup. It’s a great way to use up those bananas.
Moist and Fudgy Texture
Mashed bananas make the brownies moist and fudgy. Add ½ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of chocolate chips for richness. The recipe also uses ⅓ cup of Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a deep chocolate taste.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Unsalted Butter | ½ cup (113 g) |
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips | ½ cup (85 g) |
Granulated Sugar | 1 cup (200 g) |
Eggs | 2 large (approx. 50 g each) |
Cocoa Powder | ⅓ cup (30 g) |
Bake these brownies at 350°F for 22-25 minutes. They’re delicious and not too bad for you. Each serving has 348 calories, 43g of carbs, and 4g of protein.
Essential Ingredients for Banana Brownies
To make the perfect banana brownie, you need 10 key ingredients. The main ingredient is ½ cup (123 g) of mashed banana, which is like one large fruit. This makes the dessert moist and delicious.
For a healthier version, use dark chocolate chips and less sugar. The main ingredients are:
- Butter
- Chocolate chips
- Eggs (room temperature)
- Sugar
- Ripe bananas
- Vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder (high-quality)
- Flour
- Salt
Adding nuts can make the brownies better, but don’t use more than ¾ cup with the chocolate chips. This recipe is also healthy, with about 337 calories per serving. It has 41g of carbs and 4g of protein.
Using high-quality ingredients and measuring them right is key. Just like making a perfect chicken bowl, paying attention to details is crucial for great brownies.
Step-by-Step Banana Brownie Recipe
Making the perfect easy banana brownie is fun. It blends chocolate’s rich taste with ripe bananas’ sweetness. Follow these steps to create moist and fudgy treats.
Preparing the Banana Puree
Begin by mashing 1 ½ cups of ripe bananas, or about 4 large ones. The riper bananas make your brownies sweeter and more flavorful.
Melting Chocolate and Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup of creamy almond butter with ¾ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and let it cool a bit.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a big bowl, mix 2 eggs with sugar. Add the cooled chocolate mix and mashed bananas. Then, slowly add cocoa powder, flour, and a bit of salt. For extra chocolatey goodness, mix in more chocolate chips.
Baking to Perfection
Put the batter in a 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes. The top should be thin and crackly when it’s done. Let it cool before cutting into squares.
“These banana brownies are a game-changer! They’re so moist and chocolatey, you’d never guess they’re packed with fruit.”
Keep your tasty banana brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Each piece has about 135 calories, making it a great, guilt-free treat.
The Secret to Achieving a Crackly Top
Want to make the best banana brownie with a crackly top? It’s all about the technique! Start by whisking your eggs and sugar for 2-3 minutes. This step is key for that crackly texture.
Use room temperature eggs for the best results. They make the batter smooth and help create a delightful crust. Melted chocolate chips are also crucial. They help make the top crackly.
Here’s what you need for your crackly-top banana brownies:
- 2 medium bananas (250g), mashed
- 1/2 cup (113g) salted butter
- 1 cup (6oz) chocolate chips
- 1 1/4 cup (250g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (26g) Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour. This keeps the brownies fudgy. Bake at 325°F for 40-45 minutes. The top should be thin, crackly, and slightly puffed in the center. You’ll get a moist, fudgy banana brownie with a crackly top!
Customizing Your Banana Brownie Recipe
Banana brownies are a blank canvas for your creativity. You can adjust them to fit your taste and dietary needs. Let’s look at some ways to make your banana brownies stand out.
Adding Nuts for Crunch
For a fun texture mix, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the batter. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds are great choices. They add a nice crunch and go well with the brownies’ softness.
Incorporating Chocolate Chips
Boost your banana brownies by adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Pick your favorite type, like milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips. This adds rich, melted chocolate bits throughout the brownies.
Exploring Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
Making vegan banana brownies is easy. Just swap eggs with mashed bananas or applesauce, and use plant-based butter. For gluten-free, replace regular flour with a gluten-free blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty brownies.
Remember, the secret to great banana brownies is using very ripe bananas. They’re sweeter and blend well, making your brownies even better. With these tips, you can make a banana brownie recipe that everyone will love.
Tips for Perfectly Moist Banana Brownies
Want moist banana brownies? Start with very ripe bananas for the best taste and moisture. The riper bananas make your brownies sweeter and more flavorful.
Don’t overbake to keep them fudgy. Take them out of the oven when the center is still a bit gooey. They’ll set more as they cool. Adding Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter also helps with moisture.
Let the brownies cool in the pan for 30-60 minutes before cutting. This keeps them fudgy. Using brown butter can also make them richer. It adds a delicious nutty taste to your brownies.
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 45 minutes
- Use an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking pan
- Add ½ cup of chopped toasted walnuts for extra crunch
- Experiment with different chocolates: bittersweet, milk, or white
Store your banana brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze them for up to 2 months if you need to keep them longer. With these tips, you’ll make moist banana brownies every time!
The Art of Brown Butter Frosting
Take your banana brownie recipe to the next level with a rich brown butter frosting. This topping brings a unique depth and richness. It creates a perfect mix of flavors. Let’s dive into making this tasty frosting step by step.
Making Brown Butter
Begin by melting 1/2 cup of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Keep stirring as it foams and bubbles. Wait until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Whipping Up the Perfect Frosting
After cooling the brown butter a bit, mix it with 3 cups of powdered sugar in a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of milk. Whisk until it’s smooth and creamy.
Applying Frosting to Warm Brownies
For the best look, put the warm frosting on slightly cooled brownies. This makes the frosting spread well and gives a glossy finish. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly over your banana brownies.
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Butter | 1/2 cup | Base for brown butter |
Powdered sugar | 3 cups | Sweetness and structure |
Milk | 3 tablespoons | Adjust consistency |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
This brown butter frosting elevates your banana brownie recipe. The caramel-like flavor pairs well with banana and chocolate. It makes the best banana brownie recipe you’ll ever have.
How to Store and Preserve Your Banana Brownies
After making your banana brownie recipe, it’s important to store them right. They can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
If you want to enjoy your banana brownies later, freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, just thaw them at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
---|---|---|
Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container |
Refrigerated | Up to 5 days | Keep in a sealed container |
Frozen | Up to 3 months | Wrap individually, then place in airtight container |
For the best flavor, let refrigerated or frozen brownies come to room temperature before serving. This simple step makes the fudgy texture of your banana brownies even better. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Benefits of Banana Brownies
Enjoying a healthy banana brownie doesn’t mean you have to give up on taste. A good banana brownie recipe can mix great flavor with health benefits. Let’s look at the nutritional advantages of this tasty treat.
Bananas are the main ingredient and are very nutritious. One large banana has 1.5 grams of protein, 3.5 grams of fiber, and about 500 milligrams of potassium. These help with digestion and keep muscles working right.
Peanut butter adds more protein to your banana brownie. Two tablespoons give you 7 grams of protein, 1.5 grams of fiber, and 16.5 grams of healthy fats. These fats keep you full and support heart health.
For chocolate fans, using cacao in your brownies brings more than just great taste. Cacao is full of minerals like magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium. It also has protein, fiber, and good fats.
Ingredient | Protein (g) | Fiber (g) | Potassium (mg) |
---|---|---|---|
1 Large Banana | 1.5 | 3.5 | 500 |
2 Tbsp Peanut Butter | 7 | 1.5 | – |
1/4 cup Greek Yogurt | 5 | 0 | 85 |
For a healthier banana brownie, use oat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. This mix gives you complex carbs, antioxidants, and important minerals. It also cuts down on refined sugars.
Serving Suggestions for Banana Brownies
Your banana brownie recipe is ready. Now, let’s find tasty ways to serve it. This dessert is great for many occasions.
Pairing with Ice Cream
Warm banana brownies and vanilla ice cream make a perfect pair. The warm brownie and cold ice cream mix is amazing. Add chocolate sauce on top for extra flavor.
Creating Banana Brownie Sundaes
Turn your banana brownies into a fancy sundae. Start with a warm brownie, add ice cream, and top with whipped cream, bananas, and nuts. It’s great for special moments or when you want something extra.
Enjoying as a Quick Snack
Cut your brownies into bite-sized pieces for a quick snack. They’re great for when you’re in a hurry or need a coffee break. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge or 2-3 days at room temperature.
These brownies are very versatile. Serve them warm or at room temperature for different tastes. With just 214 calories per piece, they’re a sweet treat without the guilt. Try them with a hearty chicken pot pie for a full meal.
Serving Method | Preparation Time | Best Enjoyed |
---|---|---|
With Ice Cream | 2 minutes | Warm |
As a Sundae | 5 minutes | Warm or Room Temperature |
Quick Snack | No prep needed | Room Temperature |
Troubleshooting Common Banana Brownie Issues
Making the perfect banana brownie recipe can be tricky. Let’s look at common problems and how to fix them. This way, your brownies will always be delicious.
Sinking brownies are a common problem. This usually happens when you mix the batter too much. To prevent this, just mix your ingredients together until they’re just combined.
If your brownies are too cakey, you might be using too much flour. Try using a bit less flour next time. The type of chocolate you use also affects the taste and texture. For the best flavor, choose dark chocolate brands like Bourneville, Amul, Morde, or Van Houten.
For chewy brownies, brown sugar is crucial. It adds moisture and makes the brownies fudgy. Let your brownies cool for about 2.5 hours before you eat them. This lets the chocolate and butter set properly.
Issue | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Dry brownies | Overbaking | Reduce baking time, use more mashed banana |
Too gooey | Underbaking or excess banana | Increase baking time slightly or reduce banana amount |
No crackly top | Insufficient egg and sugar whisking | Whisk eggs and sugar thoroughly |
Uneven baking | Oven hot spots | Rotate pan halfway through baking |
To get clean slices, chill your brownies a bit before cutting. Use a hot, sharp knife. With these tips, you’ll soon be baking perfect banana brownies every time!
The Best Occasions to Serve Banana Brownies
Banana brownies are great for many events. They’re perfect for both special and casual gatherings. Let’s look at some great times to enjoy these tasty treats.
Birthday parties are a great chance to show off your banana brownie recipe. Both kids and adults will enjoy the mix of banana and chocolate. For office events, these brownies can impress your coworkers and make their day brighter.
Family reunions are all about comfort food, and banana brownies fit right in. They’re easy to take and serve, perfect for potlucks or picnics. At bake sales, these treats will be a big hit. Their smell will attract customers, and they’ll love the taste.
“Banana brownies are the perfect blend of two beloved desserts. They’re a crowd-pleaser at any event!”
For a cozy night in, make a batch of banana brownies with your favorite banana brownie recipe. Enjoy them warm with vanilla ice cream for a special dessert. They’re also great as after-school snacks for the kids.
Occasion | Serving Suggestion | Prep Time | Cook Time |
---|---|---|---|
Birthday Party | Cut into small squares | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
Office Gathering | Individually wrapped | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
Family Reunion | Large tray with toppings | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
Bake Sale | Packaged in pairs | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
These brownies keep well for up to 5 days in a sealed container. They’re easy to make, with 221 calories per serving and a total time of 1 hour and 50 minutes. This makes them perfect for planning ahead for any event.
Banana Brownie Recipe Variations Around the World
Your banana brownie recipe can get exciting new flavors with international twists. In Brazil, add a swirl of dulce de leche for a rich caramel taste. Australian versions often include crunchy macadamia nuts for a unique texture and flavor.
For a Japanese twist, mix in matcha powder. This green tea flavor adds an earthy depth to your brownies. Caribbean-style recipes might add rum and tropical fruits, perfect for summer. In Mexico, a hint of cinnamon and chili can spice things up, creating a complex flavor.
These international banana brownie variations show how versatile this treat can be. You can easily change your basic recipe to fit different tastes. Whether baking for 12-16 people or making 6 muffin-shaped brownies, these global twists will impress. The key ingredients are ripe bananas, cocoa powder, and your choice of sweetener, like maple syrup or sugar.
No matter the variation, your banana brownies will be a hit. Bake them at 350°F (180°C) for about 30 minutes. Enjoy them fresh or store them in an airtight container. These international banana brownie recipes prove a simple dessert can take you on a world tour of flavors.
FAQ
What makes banana brownies unique?
Banana brownies mix the best of banana bread and chocolate brownies. They have a moist, fudgy texture with a hint of banana. This gives a new twist to traditional brownies.
Can I make banana brownies vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can make them vegan and gluten-free. Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes for a vegan version. Replace regular flour with a gluten-free blend.
How can I prevent banana brownies from being too dry?
To keep them moist, don’t overbake. Use very ripe bananas for extra moisture. Adding Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter also helps.
What is the secret to achieving a crackly top on banana brownies?
Whisk the eggs with sugar for 2-3 minutes before adding other ingredients. Use room temperature eggs and add melted chocolate chips. These steps help create a crackly top.
Can I add mix-ins to banana brownies?
Yes, you can! Add chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or other mix-ins you like to the batter. This lets you customize them.
How should I store banana brownies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. Or store them in the fridge for 7-10 days. Freeze them for up to 3 months, frosted or unfrosted.
What are some serving suggestions for banana brownies?
Enjoy them warm with vanilla ice cream for a special treat. Or make banana brownie sundaes with whipped cream, bananas, and chocolate sauce. They’re also great as a quick snack with milk or coffee.
What are some international variations of banana brownies?
Try adding dulce de leche (Brazil), macadamia nuts (Australia), matcha powder (Japan), rum and tropical fruits (Caribbean), or cinnamon and chili (Mexico) for a global twist.