These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies are a quick, wholesome Healthy Dessert made with just bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder. Flourless, naturally sweetened, and fudgy, they’re perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the guilt. Ready in under 25 minutes, this easy recipe transforms overripe bananas into a rich, chocolatey treat.
I whip up these brownies whenever I spot brown bananas on my counter. They’re my go-to for a simple, indulgent snack that feels decadent but keeps things light and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies are a standout Healthy Dessert:
- Super Simple: Just mash, mix, and bake in minutes.
- Gluten-Free: No flour, perfect for dietary needs.
- Customizable: Easily vegan, nut-free, or jazzed up with add-ins.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples you likely have.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Fudgy texture wins over kids and adults alike.
- I made these for a friend’s potluck, and they vanished fast, with everyone asking how something so easy could taste so good.
Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need for 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies (makes 9 brownies):
- 2 large ripe bananas (brown spots preferred)
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (smooth)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Ingredient Tips:
- Bananas: Overripe for natural sweetness and easy mashing.
- Peanut Butter: Natural, smooth for creamy texture; check for no added sugar.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened for rich chocolate flavor; sift if clumpy.
Directions for 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
Let’s bake these delicious 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies!
Preheat Oven
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mash Bananas
In a mixing bowl, I mash 2 ripe bananas with a fork until smooth, with no large chunks remaining.
Mix Batter
I add ½ cup peanut butter and ¼ cup cocoa powder to the bananas, stirring until the batter is well combined and creamy, about 1 minute.
Spread Batter
I pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
Bake Brownies
I bake for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. I avoid overbaking for fudgy texture.
Cool and Slice
I let the brownies cool completely in the pan, about 20 minutes, then slice into 9 squares for serving.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Servings: 9 brownies
- Calories: ~120 kcal per brownie
- Macros per Serving: 12g carbs, 4g protein, 7g fat, 2g fiber
Variations for 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
Try these twists on 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies:
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Vegan: Use vegan-friendly peanut butter (no honey or animal products).
- Extra Texture: Stir in ¼ cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts.
- Sweeter: Add 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey for more sweetness.
- Mocha Kick: Mix in 1 tsp instant coffee granules for a coffee-chocolate vibe.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve chilled as a Healthy Dessert with a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Pair with fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.
- Enjoy with coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
Storage
I store 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 1 month, thawing in the fridge overnight. I serve them chilled or at room temperature, or warm briefly in the microwave for a gooey texture.
FAQs About 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
Can I use other nut butters in 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies?
Yes, I use almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free Healthy Dessert.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, I make them without flour, so they’re naturally gluten-free.
Can I skip the cocoa powder?
I can, but it’ll be more of a banana-nut bar; cocoa gives the chocolatey brownie flavor.
How ripe should the bananas be for this Healthy Dessert?
I choose very ripe bananas with brown spots for sweetness and easy mashing.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, I double ingredients and use a larger pan, adding a few minutes to baking time if needed.
More Summer Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
- Strawberry Sorbet Recipe
- Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe
- Strawberry Fudge Recipe
- Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake
- Pear Dump Cake: A Sweet Summer Treat
Conclusion
These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies are a simple, fudgy Healthy Dessert that’s perfect for quick cravings or using up ripe bananas. With minimal ingredients and endless customization, they’re a staple in my kitchen. Bake a batch and enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Quick & Easy 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or any nut butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and cocoa powder to the mashed bananas, then stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness and best flavor.
- For nut-free brownies, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- To make vegan, ensure the peanut butter contains no animal products.
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness, or a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a mocha twist.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze. Best served chilled or at room temperature; can be warmed slightly for gooey texture.
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