Banana brownies are a delicious twist on the classic brownie, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich chocolatey goodness. This recipe is not only indulgent but also a great way to use overripe bananas, minimizing food waste.
For more baking inspiration, check out the History of Brownies, which highlights their journey from simple desserts to versatile treats loved worldwide.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these fudgy, flavorful banana brownies, gather the following:
- 2 large bananas (mashed)
- ½ cup butter (melted)
- 1 cup sugar or a sugar alternative
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup flour or gluten-free substitute
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, walnuts, or shredded coconut
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- Mash the bananas until smooth. Their texture is crucial for the moist and fudgy quality of your brownies.
2. Mixing Ingredients
- Combine the wet ingredients (mashed bananas, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (cocoa powder, flour, and salt).
3. Combine and Bake
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with slight crumbs.
For storage tips, see the Ultimate Guide to Banana Storage to keep your bananas fresh for longer.
Variations to Try
- Healthy Alternative: Swap butter for coconut oil and sugar for maple syrup.
- Extra Richness: Add a layer of peanut butter or Nutella before baking.
- Texture Twist: Incorporate crunchy pecans or chewy raisins.
Explore similar creative baking ideas like the Banana Waffle Recipe, which offers a unique take on morning delights.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert.
- Pair with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I make them fudgier?
- Use less flour and increase the amount of cocoa powder slightly.
- Avoid overbaking as this can dry out the brownies.
Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based butter.
Internal Linking Opportunities
For a twist on classic recipes, visit:
- Banana Bread with Oil.
- Coffee Cake with Oatmeal Streusel for a sweet breakfast companion.