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In a world where indulgence often clashes with healthy living, I found a sweet compromise that satisfies both my cravings and my conscience. These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies are the delightful outcome of a simple combination that transforms ripe bananas, nut butter, and cocoa powder into a fudgy chocolate treat! Picture this: the rich aroma of cocoa wafting through your kitchen as you whip up a dessert that’s not only gluten-free but perfectly guilt-free.

When the afternoon slump hits and you’re longing for a quick and satisfying pick-me-up, these brownies become your go-to solution. With just three ingredients and a short baking time, they’re a game-changer for anyone tired of store-bought snacks or fast food. Plus, they boast an incredible versatility—feel free to swap out the nut butter or add a handful of chocolate chips for an extra dimension of flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on speed dial!

Why love 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies?

Simplicity, with only three ingredients, these brownies are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Guilt-free delight, they’re a healthy alternative to traditional brownies, allowing you to indulge without the heavy calorie load. Versatile options, mix and match nut butters or toss in some chocolate chips to tailor the flavor to your cravings. Quick satisfaction, ready in just under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for those mid-afternoon snack attacks. Crowd-pleaser, friends and family will rave about these fudgy delights, making them a fantastic addition to any gathering.

3 Ingredient Banana Brownies Ingredients

• Get ready to create a chocolatey masterpiece!

For the Brownie Batter

Ripe Bananas – They provide natural sweetness and moisture; choose bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor.
Almond Butter – This adds creaminess and richness; feel free to substitute with peanut butter for a different taste.
Cocoa Powder – Essential for that rich chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.

Optional Mix-Ins

Chocolate Chips – Stir in for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness; they can elevate your 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies to new levels!
Chopped Nuts – Add a delightful crunch; walnuts or pecans can both complement the fudgy texture beautifully.

With this simple lineup, you’re all set for a quick and delectable baking adventure!

How to Make 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your brownies bake evenly and don’t stick!
Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until creamy. Aim for a smooth texture with no lumps, as this will keep your brownies soft and fudgy.
Blend in the almond butter and cocoa powder until you achieve a thick and smooth mixture. Make sure everything is well incorporated to enhance that rich chocolate flavor.
Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. This ensures that all parts of the brownies cook uniformly for the perfect chewy texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes. Check them at 17 minutes—look for a set top and a toothpick that comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool the brownies completely in the pan. Once cooled, carefully lift them out using the parchment paper and slice into squares to serve.

Optional: Enjoy them warm topped with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies?

Indulging in a sweet treat like these brownies calls for some delightful companions to elevate your dessert experience.

Dairy-Free Ice Cream: This creamy, cool treat complements the fudginess of the brownies, adding a refreshing contrast that enhances each bite.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness of the brownies, providing a bright burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free topping adds a luscious finish, making the brownies even more decadent and indulgent.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter not only amplifies the nutty flavor but also adds a rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with the brownies.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee balances the dessert’s sweetness, the bold flavors enhancing your chocolate experience while providing a cozy touch.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a silky ganache over the brownies introduces an extra layer of luxurious chocolate, perfect for those who want an even more indulgent treat.
Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of walnuts or pecans on top adds delightful crunch, making every bite a little more interesting while complementing the brownie’s soft texture.

Storage Tips for 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will maintain their fudgy texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store brownies in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. Be sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy them later, freeze wrapped brownies in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm your brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to rejuvenate their fudgy goodness. Enjoy them warm for an indulgent treat!

Make Ahead Options

These 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ripe bananas, almond butter, and cocoa powder; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the batter to prevent oxidation. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into your prepared baking pan and follow the baking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dessert ready with minimal effort!

3 Ingredient Banana Brownies Variations

Feel free to get creative with your brownies and make them truly your own!

Nut Butter Swap: Try peanut butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor and rich texture. Each nut butter brings its own unique twist!
Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for extra sweetness and gooeyness, making each bite even more indulgent.
Mix in Nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft brownie texture beautifully.
Cacao Powder Upgrade: Swap cocoa powder with dark cacao powder for an intense chocolate flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Sweeten it Up: Add a spoonful of maple syrup or honey (if not vegan) for a touch of extra sweetness and depth of flavor.
Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor and add warmth.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in some shredded coconut or swap half the bananas for unsweetened applesauce for a fun flavor twist and moisture boost.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce right before serving for an indulgent finishing touch that elevates your dessert.

Tips for the Best 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies

Use Ripened Bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. This maximizes natural sweetness and moisture for delicious brownies.
Avoid Overmixing: When blending the almond butter and cocoa powder, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of a light, fudgy texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your brownies while baking. Check at 17 minutes to prevent overbaking for that perfect gooey center, essential for 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies.
Cooling is Key: Let the brownies cool completely before slicing. This prevents crumbling and helps maintain a beautifully fudgy texture.
Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. These brownies stay tasty at room temperature for up to 3 days!

3 Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! Ideally, you want to use very ripe bananas, as those with lots of brown spots are the sweetest and moistest. This natural sweetness is key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your brownies. If your bananas are still yellow, let them ripen for a few days out of direct sunlight to enhance their sweetness.

How should I store leftover 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies?
You can keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, store them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies?
Of course! To freeze your brownies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.

What should I do if my brownies turn out too dense?
If your brownies are denser than expected, a few factors may have contributed to this. You might have overmixed the batter; it’s important to mix until just combined after adding the nut butter and cocoa powder. Additionally, check the baking time—if they are overbaked, they can become too firm. Keep an eye on them, and remember that a toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs to ensure a fudgier outcome.

Can I make substitutions for the nut butter?
Yes, you can! While almond butter is delicious, you can easily substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Each type of nut butter will slightly alter the flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite!

Are 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! These brownies are naturally vegan-friendly since they contain no eggs or dairy products. Just ensure the nut butter you choose is also vegan (most are!) and you’ve got a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy without any guilt.