Welcome to what might be the easiest brownie recipe you will ever make. These 3 ingredient banana brownies are a true game-changer for anyone who craves a rich, fudgy, chocolatey treat without the fuss. If you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, you are just minutes away from dessert perfection. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with flavor, proving that simple can be absolutely spectacular.
We’re all about creating delicious food that fits into a busy lifestyle, and this recipe is the epitome of that philosophy. It’s the perfect solution for a last-minute dessert, a healthy snack, or even a quick breakfast bite. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
This isn’t just another brownie recipe; it’s a revolutionary approach to dessert. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it again and again:
- Incredibly Simple: With just three common pantry staples, there’s no need for a long shopping list. It’s a foolproof recipe perfect for beginner bakers.
- Healthy & Wholesome: These brownies are flourless, have no added refined sugar, and are packed with the goodness of bananas and nut butter.
- Unbelievably Fudgy: The texture is everything you want in a brownie—dense, moist, and deeply chocolatey. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- Quick to Make: From start to finish, you can have these brownies ready in under 30 minutes. It’s instant gratification for your chocolate cravings.
The Magic of Just Three Ingredients
The secret to these brownies lies in how three simple ingredients work together. The ripe bananas act as the sweetener and binding agent, providing moisture that eliminates the need for eggs or oil. The nut butter adds healthy fats and protein, creating that rich, fudgy texture. Finally, the unsweetened cocoa powder delivers that deep, decadent chocolate flavor you expect from a classic brownie. It’s a perfect culinary trifecta.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies (Step-by-Step)
Making these brownies is as simple as mash, mix, and bake. You don’t need any special equipment or techniques. Just one bowl and a few minutes of your time stand between you and chocolate heaven. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch baking pan (a loaf pan also works for thicker brownies)
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Fork or potato masher for the bananas
The Recipe
3 Ingredient Banana Brownies (Unbelievably Easy & Fudgy!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the brownies out later.
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they are mostly smooth with few lumps.
- Add the creamy peanut butter to the mashed bananas and stir until well combined and the mixture is uniform.
- Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder. Gently fold it into the banana mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into 9 squares.
Notes
Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
Feel free to stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.
This recipe is designed for simplicity, but the results are anything but basic. The key is using very ripe, spotty bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
Baker’s Tips for Perfect Fudgy Brownies
While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few expert tips can elevate your 3 ingredient banana brownies from great to absolutely unforgettable.
Choosing the Right Bananas
The riper, the better! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots. They are sweeter and much easier to mash, creating a smoother, more uniform batter. This natural sweetness is crucial since we aren’t adding any other sugar.
Nut Butter Matters
A creamy, natural nut butter (like peanut, almond, or cashew) works best. Avoid brands with added sugars or oils, as they can alter the texture. The runnier the nut butter, the easier it will be to incorporate into the batter.
Don’t Overmix!
Once you add the cocoa powder, mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can result in a tougher, denser brownie. We’re aiming for a light, fudgy texture, and gentle mixing is key to achieving that.
Fun Variations to Try
This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. Feel free to add your own personal touch with these delicious mix-ins:
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in a half cup of dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.
- Chopped Nuts: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle on top before baking perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Protein Boost: Mix in a scoop of your favorite chocolate or vanilla protein powder. If you like this, you might also enjoy these mint chocolate chip protein balls (coming soon).
Storing Your Banana Brownies
These brownies are so delicious they might not last long! However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. They taste amazing straight from the fridge!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are a healthier alternative to traditional brownies. They are made with no flour, no refined sugar, and no oil. The sweetness comes entirely from the bananas, and they contain healthy fats and protein from the nut butter.
Yes! Adding 1/2 cup of your favorite chocolate chips is a delicious variation. Gently stir them into the batter as the last step before pouring it into the pan.
Absolutely! You can substitute peanut butter with any creamy nut or seed butter. Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are all excellent choices that work well in this recipe.
The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist, fudgy crumbs attached, but not wet batter. Be careful not to overbake them, as they will continue to set as they cool.
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
More Easy Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed the simplicity and flavor of these brownies, you’ll fall in love with some of our other easy dessert creations. For a fruity and effortless treat, try this Easy Peach Cake. Craving something truly decadent? This Cookie Dough Cheesecake (coming soon) is a guaranteed showstopper. And for a warm, gooey dessert perfect for two, don’t miss our Valentine’s Skillet Cookie (coming soon).
Share Your Creation!
We are so excited for you to try this amazing 3 ingredient banana brownies recipe! It’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create something truly special. If you make them, please leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite board on Pinterest and share it with your friends!
