3-Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe

If you love quick, easy, and downright delicious treats, you’re going to adore this 3-Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe. Believe me when I say these brownies became a household favorite the second I tried them! They’re fudgy, naturally sweetened, and so simple that even if you’re new in the kitchen, you’ll nail them every time. Plus, if you have a few overripe bananas lying around, this recipe is a perfect way to use them up.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

When I first mixed these three ingredients, I was amazed how they worked together to create a rich, chocolatey brownie without any fuss. Choosing ripe bananas is key here — the riper, the better!

• Overripe Bananas: The naturally sweet and soft bananas give your brownies moisture and flavor; don’t use underripe bananas or the sweetness will be lacking.
• Peanut Butter (or Seed Butter): Adds creaminess and a slight nutty taste—make sure it’s smooth for easy mixing.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Provides the rich chocolate flavor—opt for natural cocoa powder for the best taste.
• Optional Maple Syrup: If you want a sweeter brownie, a splash of maple syrup does the trick without overpowering flavors.

Variations

I love that this 3-Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe is such a versatile base. You can customize it so easily depending on what you have or what you’re craving.

• Add-Ins: I often toss in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts — it gives a fun texture contrast and makes the brownies feel extra special.
• Seed Butter Swap: For a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter; I’ve found it’s just as creamy and delicious.
• Cakier Texture: If you prefer cakey brownies, adding a tablespoon or two of flour helps without complicating the recipe.
• Extra Sweetness: When my bananas weren’t quite sweet enough, a little more maple syrup or a dash of vanilla extract really elevated the flavor.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Bananas to Perfection

Start by peeling your overripe bananas and blending them until smooth. I use my NutriBullet for this step because it gets every bit creamy without lumps. If you don’t have a blender, mashing with a fork works too—but aim for a really smooth texture so the brownies bake evenly. Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal since they’re sweeter and softer, lending more moisture.

Step 2: Mix the Magic Ingredients Together

Into your bowl of banana puree, stir in the smooth peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder. Mix everything together until you have a consistent, fudgy batter. This part feels a bit like magic; the cocoa powder deepens the flavor, and the peanut butter provides that luscious creaminess. If you want, fold in any extras here as well.

Step 3: Bake and Watch the Magic Happen

Pour your brownie batter into a lined or greased pan and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes. Here’s where you have to trust a little: the brownies might look a bit underbaked when you pull them out, but they’ll continue to set as they cool. Resist the urge to overbake—they’re meant to stay soft and fudgy. Once cooled, cut them into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a tiny bit of flaky sea salt on top before baking to highlight the chocolate and peanut butter. Fresh berries on the side or a dollop of coconut whipped cream also add a fresh contrast that makes these brownies feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee or tea. My kids love them with a glass of cold almond milk for a quick snack or dessert that feels indulgent but isn’t over the top.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or gatherings, I sometimes cut these into small bite-sized squares and arrange them on a fancy platter with fresh mint leaves and edible flowers—it makes a simple dessert look elegant and inviting. They also work great layered in a parfait with yogurt and fruit for a breakfast twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep any leftover banana brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay perfectly soft and fudgy, no refrigeration needed unless your kitchen is very warm.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, they freeze beautifully! I wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and pop them into a freezer-safe bag. When I’m ready, I just thaw them at room temperature or reheat gently—super convenient for busy days.

Reheating

To warm up your brownies, I like to microwave them for about 15 seconds or heat them briefly in the oven at low temperature. This brings back that fresh-baked warmth and melty texture without drying them out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe has been my go-to quick treat that feels indulgent without all the fuss of traditional brownies. It’s so rewarding when you grab those ripe bananas and, in under half an hour, have a batch of rich, fudgy brownies that everyone loves—even the picky eaters in my family! I can’t wait for you to try this out and see how simple ingredients can come together to create a treat that’s both wholesome and tasty. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite dessert!

Print