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 sugar; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating treats that combine the richness of chocolate with the natural sweetness of fruit, which is why these Chocolate Banana Brownies have become a staple in my kitchen. The bananas add moisture and a hint of flavor that perfectly complements the decadent chocolate. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, so I often whip up a batch whenever I have overripe bananas on hand. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or an afternoon snack, these brownies are sure to satisfy any chocolate craving while still being a bit healthier than traditional options.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:34:09.290Z

When I first made Chocolate Banana Brownies, I was experimenting with some ripe bananas that needed to be used. To my surprise, the combination of chocolate and bananas created a texture that was irresistibly fudgy and rich, while still being somewhat lighter than traditional brownies. My family couldn’t get enough of them!

One tip I’ve learned is to mash the bananas thoroughly to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter, which adds a nice moisture without overpowering the chocolate flavor. I've started serving these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent experience!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by ripe bananas
Fudgy consistency that melts in your mouth
Easy to whip up with pantry staples

      

Banana's Role in Brownies

The ripe bananas in this recipe do more than just add flavor; they act as a natural sweetener and a source of moisture. This results in a fudgy brownie that doesn't dry out. If you're dealing with overripe bananas that are too mushy for your taste, fear not! Their texture will only enhance the brownies, giving them a rich, moist consistency that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.

Make sure to mash the bananas to a smooth consistency, as chunks can disrupt the brownie texture. If bananas aren't your preference, unsweetened applesauce can offer a similar moistness and sweetness, but the signature banana flavor will be subdued. I recommend sticking with the bananas if you're looking for that unique taste combination.

Baking Tips for Success

When preparing your baking pan, using parchment paper can help with easier removal of the brownies once they're baked. Cut the parchment paper larger than the bottom of your pan, leaving some overhang, which allows you to lift the brownies out effortlessly. This way, you avoid any potential sticking and achieve clean, even cuts when serving.

While baking, keep a close eye on the brownies, especially towards the end of the baking time. They’re done when the edges appear set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken. If your toothpick comes out with a moist crumb, that’s perfect; it means you’ve nailed the fudginess. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, which we want to avoid.

Ingredients

Brownies

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

Mix these ingredients in a bowl to create a delicious brownie batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, melted butter, and sugar until smooth. Add the cocoa powder and vanilla extract, stirring well to combine.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Let the brownies cool completely before serving for optimal texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts for texture!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Banana Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, but they can also be refrigerated for up to a week if you prefer a colder treat. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing the brownies. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

If you plan to make these brownies ahead of time, consider baking them the day before your event. Let them cool completely before covering them, as this helps maintain their fudgy texture without condensation ruining them. I often make a double batch and freeze some for unexpected cravings or to serve at gatherings!

Flavor Variations

While this recipe has a delightful chocolate and banana combination, feel free to mix it up with add-ins. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can add a wonderful crunch, contrasting the smooth texture. Additionally, you might incorporate spices such as cinnamon or a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor; just a little goes a long way.

For a fun twist, swap out some of the chocolate chips for white chocolate or even peanut butter chips. This enhances the sweetness while pairing beautifully with the bananas. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter on top when serving for an extra indulgent touch. These small changes can completely transform your brownies into new flavor experiences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I substitute the butter?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or any other vegetable oil in the same amount.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

To make these gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.