Best Quick & Easy Banana Brownie Recipe: The Perfect Treat

Banana brownies are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich, indulgent flavor of brownies but wants to add a twist of banana goodness. This easy banana brownie recipe offers a quick and simple way to whip up a treat that’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, dairy-free, or traditional version, this recipe has you covered. With just a few simple ingredients, including ripe bananas, you can create the ultimate brownie that’s perfectly moist, slightly fudgy, and packed with the right balance of banana sweetness and chocolate richness.

Why You’ll Love These Banana Brownies

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these banana brownies. Whether you’re a baking beginner or an experienced pastry enthusiast, this recipe is made to please everyone.

1. Uses Only 2 Bananas

This banana brownie recipe is a great way to use up ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. By using just two medium-sized bananas (about 250g), you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of banana flavor without overwhelming the chocolatey goodness. The bananas add moisture, making the brownies extra soft and tender.

2. Straightforward and Easy to Make

Even if you’ve never baked brownies before, you’ll find this banana brownie recipe easy to follow. The ingredients are simple, and the steps don’t require any special skills. You don’t even need a stand mixer—just basic kitchen tools like a whisk and a spatula.

3. Quick and Versatile

This banana brownie recipe is quick to prepare and highly adaptable. Looking for a dairy-free option? You can swap the butter for coconut oil. Want it gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The possibilities are endless, so you can tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences without compromising flavor.

Banana Brownie Recipe Ingredients & Substitutions

To make these amazing banana brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients for the best banana brownie recipe. Don’t worry—many of these can be swapped based on what you have in your pantry

• Butter (salted or unsalted): Butter provides richness to the brownies. Unsalted butter is preferred, but if all you have is salted, simply reduce the amount of salt in the recipe.
• Chocolate (milk, semi-sweet, or dark): The type of chocolate you use will influence the flavor. Milk chocolate will yield a sweeter brownie, while semi-sweet and dark chocolate offer a more balanced or intense flavor.
• Eggs (large, room temperature): Eggs help bind the ingredients and add to the texture. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for the best consistency.
• Sugar (granulated or light brown): Sugar adds sweetness, with brown sugar giving a slight caramel flavor. Granulated sugar will keep the texture more traditional.
• Flour (all-purpose or 1:1 gluten-free blend): For regular brownies, all-purpose flour works best. If you’re making them gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend is a great substitute.
• Cocoa Powder (Dutch process recommended): Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives the brownies a smooth, rich chocolate flavor. It also ensures that the brownies stay moist.
• Salt (fine sea salt): Salt enhances the sweetness of the brownies and balances the flavor. Use fine sea salt for a smoother texture.
• Bananas (ripe, 250g for 2 medium bananas): Ripe bananas are key in this recipe. They provide natural sweetness and moisture, so make sure they’re ripe enough to mash easily.

The Exact Ingredients for the Best Banana Brownie Recipe

• Butter: 1/2 cup (113g) – salted or unsalted
• Chocolate: 4 oz (113g) – milk, semi-sweet, or dark, chopped
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, room temperature
• Sugar: 1 cup (200g) – granulated or light brown sugar
• Flour: 1 cup (120g) – all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version)
• Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup (45g) – Dutch process recommended
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon – fine sea salt
• Bananas: 2 medium ripe bananas (about 250g), mashed
• Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup (90g) – optional, for folding in at the end

How to Make Banana Brownie Recipe

Now that you know what you’ll need, let’s get started with the easy-to-follow steps to make these delicious banana brownies.

1. Melt Butter and Chocolate

Start by melting the butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (a double boiler) or in the microwave. Stir until smooth and glossy. This will be the foundation of the rich chocolate flavor.

2. Mash Bananas

In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher. You want to get a smooth mash with minimal lumps to ensure an even texture throughout your brownies.

3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until they are well combined. The sugar will dissolve into the eggs, and the mixture will become pale and slightly fluffy.

4. Combine Chocolate and Egg Mixtures

Slowly fold the melted butter-chocolate mixture into the egg-sugar mixture, stirring until everything is well blended. This is the point where the rich chocolate flavor really starts to come together.

5. Add Mashed Bananas

Fold in the mashed bananas, making sure they’re evenly incorporated into the batter. The banana flavor will infuse the brownies, making them moist and naturally sweet.

6. Mix in Cocoa Powder

Sift the cocoa powder into the mixture and stir until smooth. This will ensure there are no lumps and that the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Incorporate Flour and Salt

Sift the flour and salt into the batter, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can lead to tough brownies.

8. Fold in Chocolate Chips

For extra richness and texture, fold in a handful of chocolate chips. This adds little pockets of gooey melted chocolate in every bite.

9. Bake at 325F (163C) for 40-45 Minutes

Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.

10. Cool Before Slicing

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This ensures that they hold their shape and gives you that perfect slice.

When Are Brownies Done Baking?

To check if your brownies are done baking, look for the following signs:

• A thin crackly top forms.
• The brownies feel slightly gooey in the center but are almost perfect.
• When you tap the pan, the brownies level off and the center doesn’t jiggle too much.

How to Get a Thin Crackly Top for Homemade Brownies?

If you want to achieve that signature crackly top, here are a few tips:

• Whisk eggs and sugar aggressively: This helps to aerate the batter, contributing to the shiny, crackly surface.
• Use room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can result in uneven mixing.
• Melted chocolate chips: They contribute to the crackly texture, so don’t skip this step!

How to Perfectly Slice Brownies?

To slice your brownies perfectly, follow these steps:

• Chill the brownies briefly: After baking, allow the brownies to cool, and then place them in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This helps the brownies firm up for easier cutting.
• Run the knife under hot water between slices: This ensures clean, neat cuts without squishing the brownies.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Banana Brownie Recipe

Can I use frozen bananas for banana brownies?

Yes! You can absolutely use frozen bananas for this banana brownie recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first, then mash them thoroughly. Keep in mind that frozen bananas may be a bit wetter than fresh ones, so you might want to drain off any excess liquid before mashing.

How ripe should the bananas be for banana brownies recipe?

The best bananas for banana brownies are those that are overripe—the kind with brown spots or even fully brown peels. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be! Overripe bananas also mash more easily, providing better texture in your batter.

 Can I Make Banana Brownies Without Eggs in This Banana Brownie Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with a flax egg or applesauce to make the recipe egg-free. To make a flax egg, simply combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. This will give your brownies a similar texture and help them bind together.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help with texture. If you prefer a healthier version, you could try using whole wheat flour, though this may affect the texture slightly, making them denser.

How do I know when my banana brownies are done baking?

To check if your banana brownies are fully baked, look for a slightly crackly top and a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The brownies should feel slightly gooey but firm enough to hold their shape when tapped.

How can I get a crackly top on my banana brownies?

To get a crackly top on your homemade brownies, make sure to whisk the eggs and sugar aggressively. Using room temperature eggs and melting the chocolate chips will also help create that perfect shiny, crackly layer on top.

How should I store banana brownies?

Keep your banana brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended freshness, store them in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to a week. If you want to store them for even longer, freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds.

Can I freeze banana brownies?

Yes, you can freeze your banana brownies! To freeze, cut them into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Banana Brownie Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding extras like chocolate chips, chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.), or a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.

What can I substitute for butter in the banana brownie recipe?

If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan version of this recipe, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Both alternatives will work well in maintaining the moist texture and rich flavor of the brownies.

Banana Brownie Recipe Summary

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes
• Yields: 16 squares

Related Recipes

If you love this banana brownie recipe, you’ll also enjoy these other delicious banana-inspired treats! Check out these easy-to-make, mouthwatering recipes that bring out the best of bananas in different ways:

• Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe: This Hawaiian banana bread is a tropical twist on the classic favorite, featuring rich flavors like coconut and pineapple. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, it’s soft, moist, and full of flavor.
• Banana Muffins: These banana muffins are a quick and easy way to enjoy ripe bananas in a portable, handheld treat. Soft, fluffy, and naturally sweet, these muffins are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

This banana brownie recipe is the perfect dessert for anyone craving something sweet, moist, and rich with chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re making these brownies for a special occasion, a quick treat, or just to use up overripe bananas, you’ll love how easy and delicious they are to make. Plus, with the option for dairy-free and gluten-free versions, everyone can enjoy them! So, grab those ripe bananas and start baking—you’ll have the perfect treat in no time.