If you are a fan of rich, fudgy treats with a natural twist, this Brownies with Banana Recipe is about to become your new go-to dessert. The lovely addition of ripe bananas adds a moistness and subtle sweetness that transforms classic brownies into something truly special. It’s the perfect blend of chocolatey indulgence and fruity goodness, making these brownies a crowd-pleaser whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever baked brownies without bananas before!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is super simple, and every item on this list plays an important role in crafting these delicious brownies. From the bananas that bring natural sweetness to the cocoa powder that gives that deep chocolate flavor, each component is essential.
- 2 ripe bananas mashed: Using very ripe bananas ensures the perfect sweetness and moist texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted: Adds rich creaminess and balances the banana flavor.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: For that classic brownie sweetness with a clean finish.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed: Offers a slight molasses note that deepens the flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding structure to the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds warmth to the overall profile.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides intense chocolate flavor without the extra fat.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Keeps the brownies tender yet firm enough to hold shape.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps to give a slight lift without making the brownies cakey.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and strengthens chocolate notes.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): Adds gooey pockets of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
How to Make Brownies with Banana Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures the brownies bake evenly and come out cleanly without sticking, giving you perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Combine Bananas and Butter
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed ripe bananas and melted unsalted butter until you have a smooth, unified mixture. This creates a luscious base that melds the moist sweetness of banana with the richness of butter.
Step 3: Add Sugars, Eggs, and Vanilla
Next, stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the batter feels well combined and slightly glossy. These additions bring sweetness, binding power, and aromatic depth to your brownies.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt right into the wet ingredients. This sifting step prevents lumps and evenly distributes the leavening agents. Gently fold everything together, but be careful not to overmix — that’s key for moist, tender brownies.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional)
If you’re using semi-sweet chocolate chips, now’s the time to fold them in. They’ll melt slightly during baking, giving you delicious bursts of melty chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Bake Until Just Right
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures the brownies stay fudgy without becoming dry.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Patience is a virtue when it comes to brownies. Letting them cool completely in the pan guarantees clean slices and allows the flavors to meld beautifully before you dive in.
How to Serve Brownies with Banana Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your brownies visually and flavor-wise, consider a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also make lovely, colorful touches that add a fresh contrast.
Side Dishes
Brownies with Banana Recipe is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a scoop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a refreshing balance to the rich, chocolatey goodness. Hot coffee or a glass of cold milk are classic companions that never fail.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family gathering, try serving your brownies with banana slices on top or layered between brownie squares and a light chocolate mousse for a decadent parfait. You could also cut the brownies into mini bite-sized pieces and serve them on skewers with fruit for a fun dessert platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain moisture and flavor. Keeping them away from heat and sunlight preserves their perfect fudgy texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these brownies later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months. When you’re ready, just thaw them at room temperature overnight.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked warmth, reheat individual brownies in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. Warm brownies bring back that melt-in-your-mouth feeling.
FAQs
Can I use less sugar in the Brownies with Banana Recipe?
Absolutely! You can reduce the granulated and brown sugars slightly if you prefer a less sweet brownie, but keep in mind the bananas add natural sweetness that balances things out.
What if I don’t have an 8×8-inch pan?
You can use a similarly sized pan such as 9×9 inches, but the baking time might vary slightly. Keep an eye on the brownies and perform the toothpick test to check doneness.
Can I substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
Yes, a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend works well here. Just be mindful that texture may change slightly depending on the blend’s ingredients.
Why are my brownies not fudgy?
Overbaking is the most common culprit. Baking until just a few moist crumbs cling to a toothpick helps retain that rich fudgy texture, especially important with this Brownies with Banana Recipe.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Walnuts, pecans, or even shredded coconut add wonderful texture and flavor. Fold them in alongside the chocolate chips for an even more decadent brownie.
Final Thoughts
This Brownies with Banana Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, combining the natural sweetness of bananas with rich chocolate for a moist, tender treat everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, these brownies offer comfort and joy in every bite. Grab those ripe bananas and start baking—you won’t regret it!
Print
Brownies with Banana Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and moist brownies made healthier by incorporating ripe bananas, delivering a rich chocolate flavor with a delightful banana twist. These brownies are easy to make, perfect for a homemade dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while adding a hint of natural sweetness and moisture.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed ripe bananas and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Sugars and Eggs: To the banana-butter mixture, add the granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined and the batter is smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently stir the batter just until combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter to add extra bursts of chocolate flavor.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs for a fudgy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 9 squares and serving. Cooling ensures cleaner cuts and better texture.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and enhanced banana flavor.
- For fudgier brownies, underbake by 1 to 2 minutes; for cakier brownies, bake full time.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and moisture.
