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 unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I often find myself craving something sweet, and these Chocolate Banana Brownies have become my go-to treat. The combination of rich chocolate and ripe bananas creates a moist, fudgy brownie that’s hard to resist. I love how simple the recipe is, using just a handful of ingredients, yet the flavor is extraordinary. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or chilled in the fridge, they always deliver on taste. Plus, they are an excellent way to use up overripe bananas, giving them a second life in a delicious dessert.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:37:36.577Z

When I first discovered the magic of combining bananas with brownies, I never looked back. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, eliminating the need for excessive sugar and fat. One of my favorite tips is to use very ripe bananas, as their flavor deepens and enhances the overall chocolate experience in every bite. It’s truly a match made in heaven!

These brownies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying on a cozy evening at home. I also love that they can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips depending on my mood. Each version brings a delightful twist to this already irresistible treat!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of banana sweetness
Fudgy texture that satisfies any chocolate craving
Perfect for sharing or enjoying alone, guilt-free

Choosing the Right Bananas

When it comes to making these Chocolate Banana Brownies, the ripeness of your bananas greatly impacts the flavor and texture. I recommend using bananas that are well-spotted and almost completely brown. This level of ripeness not only maximizes their sweetness, but it also contributes to the moistness of the brownies. If you only have slightly ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two, which will help concentrate their flavor.

If you find yourself with an abundance of overripe bananas, you can easily double this recipe and share the delicious results with friends and family. Simply use a larger baking dish, like a 9x13 inch, and adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on them as they bake, checking for doneness around 30-35 minutes, as the extra volume will require a bit more time.

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this brownie recipe serves a unique purpose. The unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate flavor we're all after, while the almond flour adds a delightful nuttiness and a moist, tender crumb. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour is a perfect alternative to standard flour. However, keep in mind that almond flour can produce a denser brownie. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can combine it with a bit of oat flour for a fluffier result.

The baking soda in this recipe acts as a leavening agent, giving the brownies a bit of lift. If you find you have no baking soda on hand, you can substitute it with baking powder, using three times the amount—1.5 teaspoons in this case. Remember, however, that this may slightly alter the flavor profile, as baking powder has a slight taste that can come through in baked goods.

Storing and Serving Tips

To ensure that your Chocolate Banana Brownies stay fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in a labeled freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked feel.

For a fun twist, consider serving your brownies topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips on top for added crunch and flavor. A drizzle of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation, making them perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add dry ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined. If you're using chocolate chips, fold them in at this point.

Bake the brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, top the brownies with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or sprinkle with sea salt before baking for a flavor boost.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dry, it may be due to over-baking. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick; a few moist crumbs should cling to it. If you find your brownies are overly wet after baking, it might be due to the bananas being excessively large or the proportions being off. Consider weighing your ingredients for consistent results in future batches.

Another common issue is the brownies sticking to the pan. Always use parchment paper to line your baking dish, allowing for easy removal. If you forgot this step, you can use a plastic knife to gently pry around the edges to help loosen them before flipping the pan upside down.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins for your brownies! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture, while dried fruits such as cherries or cranberries can introduce a delightful tartness. If you want a hint of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt on top before baking, which can complement the sweetness of the chocolate and bananas beautifully.

You can also try flavoring your brownies with different extracts. For example, a dash of almond or coconut extract can add an interesting twist. If you're looking to cut down on sugar, consider substituting half of the sugar with mashed dates or applesauce, which will maintain the moisture while reducing refined sugars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour if desired.

→ How can I store the brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I add nuts to the brownies?

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

→ What can I use instead of sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower sugar alternative.