Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt, this Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with ripe bananas for natural sweetness, wholesome ingredients like oat flour and Greek yogurt, and rich cocoa for that classic chocolatey flavor, these brownies strike a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Whether you’re serving them as a post-workout snack or a cozy dessert, these brownies bring a fudgy, moist texture with every bite—plus, they’re easy to whip up with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Trust me, once you try this Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a special role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From ripe bananas to melt-in-your-mouth dark chocolate chips, every element works together to create brownies that feel indulgent yet nourishing.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The natural sweetness and moisture base that keeps the brownies soft and tender.
• 2 large eggs: They bind everything together and add richness.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey): Adds a gentle hint of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt (or applesauce): Brings creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the moist texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A little warmth and depth that elevates the chocolate flavor.
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted: Adds healthy fats and richness for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The soul of the brownies—deep and chocolatey taste without extra sugar.
• 1/2 cup oat flour (or almond flour for grain-free): Provides structure and a subtly nutty flavor.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda: Helps the brownies rise just right, keeping them tender.
• 1/4 tsp sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Optional: 1/4 tsp cinnamon: A gentle spice that brings warmth and complexity.
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (70% or higher): For pockets of gooey, bittersweet chocolate bliss.
• Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds delightful crunch and a toasty contrast.

How to Make Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly from the moment they go in. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This simple prep trick makes it so easy to lift the brownies out when they’re ready—no sticking or crumbling involved.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Grab your ripe bananas and mash them thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until smooth. The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. This natural sweetness reduces the need for extra sugar and gives the brownies a moist, tender crumb that’s simply irresistible.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the eggs, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Whisk everything until you have a smooth and glossy mixture. This wet base brings the essential fat and binder elements that help create the perfect fudgy texture you crave in brownies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder to avoid any pesky lumps. Add the oat flour, baking soda, sea salt, and if you’re feeling adventurous, that pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth. Gently fold everything together with a spatula or wooden spoon, mixing just enough to combine. The result should be a thick, fudgy batter that promises rich chocolate goodness.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate and Nuts

The magic happens here when you fold in dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate. This creates gooey pockets of intense flavor throughout the brownies. If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle in chopped walnuts or pecans—adding a wonderful texture contrast that’s hard to beat.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the thick batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. For an extra bakery-inspired finish, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips or nuts on top before popping it into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures your brownies stay fudgy and never dry.

Step 7: Cooling and Slicing

Patience is key here. Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 to 30 minutes—this rest time allows them to set properly and makes slicing easier. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out, then slice into 9 hearty squares or 12 smaller bite-sized treats if you prefer.

How to Serve Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

These brownies are lovely just as they are, but adding a few simple garnishes can take them to the next level. Try a dusting of cocoa powder or a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top for an elegant touch. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut can add pops of color and flavor while keeping things healthy and fresh.

Side Dishes

Pair your brownies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of your favorite plant-based vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea also complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully, making the perfect cozy snack or dessert combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests or just make your snack time more fun? Serve individual brownie squares in mini mason jars layered with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a delightful parfait-style dessert. Or sandwich two brownie squares together with a smear of nut butter or cream cheese frosting for an indulgent yet wholesome treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Healthy Banana Brownies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for about 3 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator where they will stay moist and delicious up to 7 days. Always make sure they’re completely cool before storing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

Want to make these brownies ahead of time? Freeze individual portions in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy a quick, healthy chocolate fix anytime. Thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds before serving.

Reheating

Reheat your brownies gently to keep their fudgy texture intact. A few seconds in the microwave works perfectly, and optionally, add a little nut butter or yogurt on top for a quick snack upgrade. Avoid overheating to prevent drying them out—these are best enjoyed soft and gooey.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of oat or almond flour?

Absolutely! You can substitute with the same amount of all-purpose flour if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture might shift slightly, becoming a bit less dense and fudgy compared to the oat or almond flour version.

Are these brownies vegan-friendly?

This exact recipe isn’t vegan because it uses eggs and Greek yogurt, but you can easily make it vegan by swapping the eggs for flax eggs and using a dairy-free yogurt alternative. The texture remains moist and delicious with these simple swaps.

How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

The bananas should be very ripe with plenty of brown spots—the riper, the better! Ripe bananas are sweeter and mash easily, giving the brownies their signature moistness and natural sweetness.

Can I add protein powder to this Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe?

Yes, you can! Replacing a couple of tablespoons of oat flour with your favorite protein powder is a great way to boost protein content. Just be sure to choose a powder that mixes well to keep the batter smooth.

Do I have to add the chocolate chips?

Though the chocolate chips add delightful bursts of chocolate, you can omit them if you want a simpler brownie or prefer a nut-only texture. The brownies will still be rich and flavorful without them.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Banana Brownies Recipe is a game changer for anyone craving a chocolate treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Easy to make with simple ingredients, versatile to fit your dietary preferences, and utterly delicious, this recipe will definitely earn a permanent place in your dessert lineup. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that your taste buds and body will thank you for!

Print