Chocolate Banana Brownies

Name: Chocolate Banana Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup brown 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: Golden Ideas

I absolutely love making Chocolate Banana Brownies, especially when I have ripe bananas lying around! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet bananas creates a perfect harmony that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful treat, and it only takes 30 minutes to prepare and bake. Whether you're serving them at a party or simply indulging at home, these brownies are sure to impress. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this decadent dessert that adds a silky twist to traditional brownies.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:53:34.879Z

When I first made these Chocolate Banana Brownies, I was pleasantly surprised by how moist and flavorful they turned out. I used overripe bananas, which not only added natural sweetness but also enhanced the texture. One crucial tip I found is to mash the bananas thoroughly; it makes a real difference in integrating the flavors and achieving that heavenly fudgy consistency.

Moreover, adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking elevates the chocolate flavor significantly. The saltiness perfectly balances the sweetness, and it’s a trick I now always include when making these brownies. After the first batch vanished within minutes, I knew I had stumbled upon a true classic.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Irresistible chocolate flavor with a hint of banana sweetness
Fudgy texture that satisfies any chocolate craving
Quick and easy to whip up, perfect for last-minute desserts

      

Understanding the Role of Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial for achieving the right texture and sweetness in these brownies. The natural sugars in ripe bananas contribute to the moistness and flavor of the brownies. For the best result, choose bananas that are heavily speckled or nearly black; they will provide a deeper banana flavor. If you have overripe bananas, this is the perfect recipe to utilize them, avoiding food waste and adding a delicious twist to your dessert.

In addition to adding flavor, bananas also act as a binding agent in this recipe, reducing the need for eggs. This makes the brownies a suitable option for those looking for egg-free desserts. However, if you want to enhance the fudginess, consider using an additional mashed banana or a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for oil.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Stirring just until combined will maintain the fudgy texture that these brownies are known for. If you mix too vigorously, you could incorporate excess air, leading to cakier brownies, which is not the desired outcome. Aim for a thick batter that is slightly lumpy, which will ensure a rich, dense brownie after baking.

For the best results, bake your brownies until the edges are set and the center looks slightly underbaked. The toothpick test is your friend here: if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect. Remember that brownies will continue to cook in the pan even after being removed from the oven, so don’t be tempted to leave them in for too long.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown 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 grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing them into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. You can also replace some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

Variations to Experiment With

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins beyond chocolate chips! Chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter can add unique flavors and textures to your brownies. If you are feeling adventurous, substitute a portion of cocoa powder with peanut butter powder to give an interesting twist on the classic brownie flavor. These variations not only enhance the taste but also provide a chance for you to be creative in the kitchen.

For those looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute the granulated and brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and moisture, so you might need to add an extra tablespoon of oil or banana to balance it out.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies store beautifully! Once cooled, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days or can be refrigerated for a week. For longer storage, wrap the brownies individually in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to allow them to thaw fully at room temperature before enjoying to retain their fudgy texture.

Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert experience. You can also sprinkle them with powdered sugar or sea salt for a gourmet presentation. Alternatively, try pairing with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced treat that highlights the rich chocolate and sweet banana flavor even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition for a delightful crunch.

→ Is there a substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for vegetable oil.