Chocolate Banana Brownies

Name: Chocolate Banana Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas); 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love making Chocolate Banana Brownies, especially when I have ripe bananas on hand! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet, tender banana creates a decadent dessert that's impossible to resist. It's so easy to put together, and in just under an hour, you’ll have gooey, fudgy brownies that are perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to make these again and again for every gathering!

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:17:35.504Z

When I first experimented with Chocolate Banana Brownies, I was skeptical about how the flavors would blend. But once I saw the bananas melting into the chocolate, I knew I had struck gold. This recipe is a game-changer, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas!

Not only do these brownies satisfy a chocolate craving, but they also have a unique flavor profile thanks to the banana addition. I’ve found that using a mix of cocoa powder and melted chocolate elevates the brownie’s richness. It’s a method I highly recommend if you’re looking for that perfect fudgy texture that melts in your mouth.

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Irresistible chocolate richness enhanced by sweet bananas
Soft, gooey texture that melts away with every bite
Perfectly satisfying for both chocolate lovers and banana fans

The Role of Bananas in Brownies

Using ripe bananas in these brownies not only adds natural sweetness but also contributes to their moist texture. As bananas ripen, their starches convert into sugars, which enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownies. The moisture from the banana helps create a fudgy texture that is essential for rich brownies. If you prefer a stronger banana flavor, be sure to choose very ripe bananas with a few brown spots, as they provide the best sweetness and consistency.

Additionally, if you're looking to substitute the bananas, consider using unsweetened applesauce or even pumpkin puree. These alternatives will still yield a similar level of moisture but will alter the flavor. Keep in mind that substituting may require adjustments in sugar content, especially if you choose a less sweet option.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To achieve that gooey, fudgy texture that these brownies are known for, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can introduce too much air into the batter, leading to a cakey texture instead of the desired dense and moist result. Mix just until you no longer see dry flour, and then gently fold in any chocolate chips if you’re using them.

Another tip is to bake just until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. If the toothpick comes out completely clean, the brownies might be overbaked, leading to a drier result. Each oven is different, so start checking a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Keeping a close eye on them will ensure you pull them out at the right moment.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Once you have everything measured out, you’re ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Then, add the eggs one by one, stirring well after each addition. Lastly, mix in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until evenly mixed.

Incorporate Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, if using, then pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your fudgy, banana-infused brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. This will enhance the chocolatey goodness and add a delightful crunch.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Banana Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them; they will last about a week in the fridge. Just ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze these brownies. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should maintain their quality for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Banana Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The warm brownies melting into the cold ice cream creates a delicious contrast that is sure to impress guests.

For a more indulgent dessert, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving. The salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness of the bananas beautifully. You can also serve them with whipped cream or fresh berries for an added touch of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just thaw them completely and make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I make these brownies vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter alternative.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They are delicious on their own but can be served with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit for an extra treat!