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These healthy banana brownies take classic brownies and give them a nourishing spin with just a few clean ingredients. The process is quick enough for a weeknight treat, and the finished bars are so moist and fudgy you would never suspect they are naturally sweetened. Whenever I am craving chocolate and want something wholesome for my family, this is my go to chocolate fix.
I first made these brownies on a busy weekday when my kids wanted dessert and I had overripe bananas to use up. Now we make them almost every month. No one has noticed they are a healthier version.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas: they add moisture and natural sweetness use bananas with lots of brown spots for the best flavor
- Eggs: help bind the brownies and create structure in the batter buy free range or organic if possible
- Vanilla extract: brings the chocolate flavor forward use pure vanilla for better taste
- Almond milk: makes the batter silky and adds a little nutty note unsweetened is best
- Chocolate chips: give those melty rich bites in every square go for dark chocolate chips for more antioxidants
- Cocoa powder: delivers intense chocolate flavor and fiber choose high quality unsweetened cocoa for depth
- Honey: naturally sweetens and helps with the fudgy texture local honey will have the freshest flavor
- Baking soda: makes the brownies rise a little giving a tender bite always check your baking soda is fresh for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while you mix the batter so it is at the perfect temperature when you are ready to bake
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a one and a half quart casserole dish making sure to get all corners or use parchment for easy removal
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Add all your ingredients into a large mixing bowl then use a hand mixer to blend everything until completely smooth especially making sure no banana lumps remain
- Pour the Batter:
- Scrape the thick brownie batter into your prepared dish using a spatula to smooth the top and get it into every corner for even baking
- Bake the Brownies:
- Place the dish on the center rack and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes start checking at twenty five by inserting a toothpick it should come out mostly clean with a few fudgy crumbs
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the brownies cool in the dish for at least ten minutes before cutting into squares this helps them set and makes slicing easier
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Whenever I use local honey in these brownies I notice the depth of flavor increases and the sweetness is just right My son always asks for the corner piece because it gets the chewy edge
Storage Tips
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days If you want to keep them longer stack separated by parchment paper and freeze for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge or zap in the microwave for a warm treat
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap almond milk for any milk you prefer like oat or dairy Egg substitutes like flax eggs work if you need these vegan Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile or allergy needs Choose dairy free chocolate chips for a fully dairy free dessert
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Serving Suggestions
Brownies taste delicious on their own but for a special dessert top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream A sprinkle of flaky sea salt brings out the chocolate flavor even more These also pack well for lunchboxes or picnic treats
Cultural Context
Brownies are a classic American dessert but by blending in ingredients like banana and honey you get a slightly tropical note with wholesome sweetness This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to balance nostalgia with better for you baking
Recipe FAQs
- → How ripe should the bananas be?
For best results, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These provide maximum sweetness and blend smoothly for a fudgy texture.
- → Can I substitute the almond milk?
Yes, any milk or non-dairy alternative will work. Use what you have on hand for similar texture and flavor.
- → Should the brownies be gooey in the center?
The brownies should be firm on the edges but slightly soft and fudgy in the center. Let them cool before slicing for best results.
- → Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or extra chocolate chips are great mix-ins to enhance flavor and texture.
- → How should I store leftover brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped squares.
- → Is it necessary to use a hand mixer?
A hand mixer ensures a smooth batter, but vigorous mixing with a whisk or spoon will also work if that's preferred.