Let me tell you—this banana brownie recipe is what I reach for when I’ve got a couple of bananas sitting on the counter and everyone’s in the mood for something cozy and chocolatey. It’s the kind of treat that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing and brings people running before the pan even cools.
Sometimes, regular brownies just don’t hit the same way, especially when you’re craving that little something extra. That’s where the bananas come in—not just for flavor, but for that wonderfully soft texture that makes every bite rich and satisfying.
In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to get them just right—from mixing to baking to storing the leftovers (if there are any!). Whether you’re baking for your family, a get-together, or just a little afternoon treat, these brownies are a keeper. Let’s get started—you’re going to love how easy and rewarding this recipe is.
What Makes This Banana Brownie Recipe So Loved
Oh, this banana brownie recipe is one of those go-to treats you’ll want to keep close, like in your favorite cookbook or pinned right at the top of your board. It brings together the deep, rich flavor of classic brownies with the cozy, familiar taste of banana bread. Think fudgy meets fruity in the most delicious way. And the best part? You don’t need fancy tools or a stocked bakery pantry—just a few kitchen basics, a bowl, and a little mixing love.
Here’s why you’ll find yourself making these again and again:
Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser
Everyone—from picky toddlers to teens to grown-up guests—loves the familiar flavor combo of banana and chocolate. These brownies always disappear fast!
Quick and Easy to Make
No complicated steps, no special skills. You’ll have your batter ready before the oven is even done preheating.
One-Bowl Wonder
Less cleanup means more time enjoying dessert. Everything mixes up in a single bowl, and that’s always a win in my book.
Perfect for Using Up Ripe Bananas
You know those bananas sitting on the counter? This is their time to shine—no waste, just tasty reward.
Fudgy with a Twist
These aren’t just any brownies. The banana gives them a softer, more flavorful bite, like a chocolatey hug in every square.
Customizable for Every Occasion
Add nuts for crunch, peanut butter chips for a fun twist, or leave them simple and classic. They work for potlucks, after-school snacks, or cozy nights in.
Freezer-Friendly
Bake now, enjoy later. These store beautifully, so you can always have a sweet treat on hand.
This recipe has become a little tradition in our house—baked on quiet Sundays, shared with neighbors, or snuck into lunchboxes with love. Ready to gather your ingredients? Let’s head into the kitchen and take a look at what you’ll need.
Ingredients You Need for the Best Banana Brownies
Let’s pull together what you need for this banana brownie recipe. Nothing fancy—just everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each one plays a simple but important role in bringing these brownies to life.
Here’s what to grab:
Basic Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (about 1 cup, mashed)
Naturally sweet and tender, ripe bananas bring just the right texture and a cozy banana flavor to every bite. The riper, the better—think spotty and fragrant. - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Gives the brownies that melt-in-your-mouth texture and helps create a rich, fudgy crumb. - ¾ cup granulated sugar
Keeps the brownies sweet and balances the deep chocolate flavor. - ¼ cup packed brown sugar
Adds a touch of caramel-like depth and helps lock in moisture. - 2 large eggs, room temperature
They hold everything together and add a touch of fluffiness. - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Brings out the best in both the chocolate and banana notes. - ¾ cup all-purpose flour
Just the right amount to give structure without making the brownies cakey. - ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural, not Dutch-process)
Delivers that rich chocolate base we all crave in a brownie. - ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
A pinch makes the sweet flavors pop—it’s like a finishing touch baked right in. - ¼ teaspoon baking powder
A little lift to keep the brownies from feeling too dense. - ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For those melty chocolate pockets that make each bite extra indulgent.
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts – For a little crunch if you like texture.
- ¼ cup peanut butter chips – A sweet and salty combo that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder – Boosts the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.
Pro Tip: Want to add a fun twist? For a cinnamon-spiced flavor, try adding ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Or give it a tropical vibe by folding in a handful of shredded coconut.
Next up, I’ll walk you through the steps—easy, mess-free, and made for real kitchens like ours.
Step-by-Step: How to Bake This Banana Brownie Recipe
This is one of those cozy recipes that feels good to make, from the first stir to the final slice. You’ll be baking a pan of pure chocolate-banana comfort in just a few simple steps. Let’s get started:
1- Preheat and Line the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting the sides hang over a bit—this makes lifting the brownies out super easy later.
2- Mash the Bananas
Grab a large mixing bowl and use a fork to mash the bananas until they’re mostly smooth—some small bits are just fine and add character to the batter.
3- Stir in the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the melted butter, then whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until everything is well combined and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla, and mix again until the batter looks smooth and slightly thickened.
4- Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder over the wet mixture, letting it settle evenly across the top. Grab a spatula and gently fold everything together until the batter looks rich and uniform—no visible streaks of flour, just smooth, chocolatey goodness.
5- Add the Chocolate Chips (and Extras)
Fold in the chocolate chips along with any extras you’ve picked—just a few gentle turns to spread them through the batter without overmixing.
6- Pour and Smooth the Batter
Transfer the batter to your prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula, smoothing the top so it bakes up level.
7- Bake Until Just Right
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 28–32 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few soft crumbs—no wet batter clinging to it.
8- Cool and Slice
Give the brownies about 15 minutes to rest in the pan before moving them. Then use the parchment to lift them onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. (Or sneak a warm piece—we won’t judge!)
If your brownies come out a little too gooey, just pop them in the fridge to firm up before slicing. And if the top cracks a little? That’s a good thing—it means you nailed the fudgy texture.
Once they’re sliced and ready, we’ll chat next about how to make them look amazing on the plate—or in the lunchbox!
Banana Brownie Recipe Tips and Easy Variations
If you’re like me, once you’ve made a banana brownie recipe a few times, you start to play around with it, just a little. That’s part of the fun! Let’s look at a few helpful tricks and fun ways to make this recipe fit your style—or fix little hiccups along the way:
Don’t overmix the batter
As tempting as it is to keep stirring, mix just until the flour disappears. That way, your brownies stay moist with a rich, delicate crumb.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup
It’s a small step that makes a big difference when it’s time to lift and slice the brownies—no sticking, no stress.
Want extra gooey brownies?
Pull them out of the oven right when the edges are set and the center still has a slight wobble. Letting them cool completely helps them firm up just right.
Make it nutty
Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a bit of crunch that pairs beautifully with banana and chocolate.
Chocolate-on-chocolate twist
Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top after baking—or stir in dark chocolate chunks for those big melty pockets.
Spice it up
A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg gives these brownies a warm, cozy feel, especially lovely in fall.
Gluten-free version
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture stays rich and fudgy with no special adjustments needed.
It’s always fun to try new versions, but even the classic will get rave reviews. Once your brownies are baked and cooled, let’s talk about fun ways to serve them up and make every bite feel a little extra special.
Serving Ideas for Your Banana Brownies
These brownies are the kind of treat that fits almost any mood or moment. Whether you’re planning a party or sneaking one with your morning coffee, this banana brownie recipe knows how to deliver.
Try these ideas for serving with a little extra flair:
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
A warm brownie and cold ice cream? It never fails. Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips or crushed nuts for texture. - On a dessert tray
Cut into small squares and arrange with fresh berries, mini cookies, or other finger sweets for gatherings. - Lunchbox treat
Wrap up a square in parchment paper for a sweet surprise tucked inside a lunch bag or picnic basket. - Drizzle with peanut butter
Warm a spoonful and swirl it on top just before serving—great for peanut butter lovers! - Stack and skewer
For birthday parties or fun dinners, cut brownies into cubes, stack them, and skewer with a toothpick for brownie bites.
However you serve them, these brownies are sure to bring smiles all around. Now, let’s talk about how to keep any leftovers just as tasty as day one.
How to Store and Reheat Banana Brownies the Right Way
Made a batch of this banana brownie recipe and have a few squares left? (That’s impressive, by the way!) Here’s how to keep them soft, chocolatey, and ready to enjoy anytime:
- Room Temperature:
Keep them in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days. If stacking, place a small piece of parchment between layers to avoid sticking. - Refrigerator:
Want to keep them a little longer? Pop the container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let brownies sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture. - Freezer-Friendly:
Wrap each brownie in plastic, then tuck them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Great for future dessert cravings! - To Reheat:
Warm a single brownie in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel. Don’t overdo it—they just need a quick warm-up to soften.
Once you’ve tried these, it’s hard to go back to plain brownies.
More Desserts You’ll Want to Bake Next
If this banana brownie recipe hits the spot, here are a few more sweet treats you might love:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Without Brown Sugar – Soft, chewy, and packed with classic cookie flavor using just pantry basics.
- Pistachio Muffin Recipe – Light, fluffy muffins with a subtle nutty twist and golden tops.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies – A fun, nostalgic cookie that brings PB&J into a delicious new form.
Banana Brownie Recipe You’ll Crave Again & Again
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas about 1 cup, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup natural cocoa powder
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup peanut butter chips
- ½ tsp espresso powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Mash bananas in a large bowl.
- Add melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Fold until just combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips and any optional add-ins.
- Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes, until center is set and a toothpick shows a few moist crumbs.
- Cool in pan for 15 minutes, then lift out and cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Contains eggs, dairy, and wheat. For best results, use ripe bananas and avoid overbaking for maximum fudginess.Key Takeaways
- This banana brownie recipe combines rich chocolate flavor with sweet banana goodness.
- It’s a one-bowl recipe—simple, quick, and cleanup-friendly.
- Ripe bananas add flavor and keep the brownies soft and moist.
- It’s easy to switch things up with add-ins like nuts, baking chips, or a pinch of spice—whatever fits the mood.
- Stores well at room temp, in the fridge, or freezer for later treats.
Next up, let’s answer a few common questions to help you bake with confidence!
Banana Brownie Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Can I double this banana brownie recipe for a bigger batch?
Yes! If you’re baking for a crowd, just double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Bake for about 30–34 minutes, and check with a toothpick—look for a few moist crumbs in the center, not wet batter.
What if my bananas aren’t very ripe yet?
No problem. Place unpeeled bananas on a baking sheet and roast them at 300°F (150°C) for around 15 minutes. Once the skins darken and the bananas feel soft, let them cool, peel, and mash.
Can I use Dutch-process cocoa instead of natural?
You can! Just make one small adjustment: swap out the baking powder and use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda instead. It helps keep the balance just right.
How do I slice brownies with clean edges?
Let the brownies cool completely—this makes all the difference. Grab a sharp knife and give it a quick wipe between slices to keep those edges neat. A gentle sawing motion works better than pressing straight down.
Are these brownies nut-free?
They sure can be. Just skip the optional walnuts, and if needed, double-check that your chocolate chips come from a nut-free facility to be safe.
Can I reduce the sugar without messing up the texture?
Yes, you can reduce both sugars by about 1–2 tablespoons each. Just know the brownies will be slightly less sweet, but still moist and rich with banana flavor.
Next up, we’ll wrap things up with a few final thoughts to send you off into baking bliss!
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, I hope you’re just as excited about this banana brownie recipe as I am. It’s one of those cozy bakes that brings joy to any kitchen—easy to whip up, fun to share, and always a hit at the table. Whether you stuck with the classic version or added your own twist, I’d love to know how it turned out for you.
If you give this recipe a try, please leave a quick review below—it means the world and helps others find a recipe they’ll enjoy too. Happy baking, and come back anytime you’re in the mood for something sweet and simple!
