Chocolate Banana Brownies

Name: Chocolate Banana Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 3/4 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Basic Kitchen

I absolutely love these Chocolate Banana Brownies! The rich chocolate flavor, combined with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creates an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. I enjoy making these brownies when I want to impress friends or simply indulge in something delicious. The moist texture keeps them from feeling too heavy, and the banana adds a unique twist that elevates the classic brownie. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:03:35.689Z

When I first attempted to combine bananas and chocolate in a brownie recipe, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, after countless trials, I discovered that ripe bananas can add a natural sweetness and moisture that enhances the chocolate’s richness. Each time I made these brownies, I experimented with different types of chocolate and found that using a combination of dark and milk chocolate yields the best flavor.

A key tip is to slightly underbake the brownies; this ensures a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I typically bake them in a smaller pan for that extra thick brownie experience. Serve these warm with a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable dessert!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolatey goodness paired with the natural sweetness of bananas
A fudgy texture that is both satisfying and indulgent
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

The Role of Bananas in Brownies

Ripe bananas are not just a flavoring agent in these brownies; they play a crucial role in enhancing the texture. Their natural moisture keeps the brownies fudgy without needing excessive butter or eggs. When mashed well, bananas blend beautifully into the batter, ensuring an even distribution of sweetness and a rich, tender crumb. Additionally, the ripeness of the bananas affects the level of sweetness, so choose bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best results.

Beyond moisture, bananas also introduce a subtle complexity to the flavor profile. The slight tanginess of the fruit complements the rich cocoa, creating a delightful depth. If you're seeking an alternative to bananas due to dietary restrictions, unsweetened applesauce can be a suitable substitute; however, you might miss some of the unique flavor that bananas provide.

Perfecting the Fudgy Texture

Achieving that perfect fudgy texture depends significantly on not overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Gently folding the flour and cocoa mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined helps maintain air bubbles, promoting a nice rise while ensuring the final product remains dense and chewy. If you prefer a cakier brownie, you can slightly increase the flour to 2/3 cup, though this will alter the overall richness.

Another tip is to monitor baking time closely; every oven is different, and underbaking slightly—until you see moist crumbs on a toothpick—can keep them ultra chewy. If you're not serving the brownies immediately, consider slightly underbaking them and letting them cool in the pan, as they will continue cooking through residual heat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your own Chocolate Banana Brownies!

For the Brownies

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup chocolate chips

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Chocolate Banana Brownies!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.

Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

These brownies are even better the next day as they continue to set and enhance in flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, top your brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt or serve with whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Banana Brownies are delicious on their own, but they can be elevated further when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of cold and warm enhances the dessert experience. For added flair, drizzle with melted chocolate or a homemade caramel sauce to enhance the chocolatey goodness.

For a nutritious twist, serve the brownies with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or raspberries, to cut through the richness and add a burst of freshness. This not only adds beauty to your presentation but also balances the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored effectively. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. They'll stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

To reheat frozen brownies, simply allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a delightful 'just-baked' texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Just ensure they are well mashed.

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Sure! You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans make a great addition to the batter.