Name: 30-Minute Banana Brownies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 1 medium banana); 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 cup sugar; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp baking powder; Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Why You’ll Love 30-Minute Banana Brownies Recipe

Naturally sweetened with bananas and maple syrup
Made without refined sugar or flour
Gluten-free and dairy-free with easy vegan swaps
Rich, chocolatey flavor with a moist, fudgy texture
Great way to use up brown bananas
One bowl recipe with easy cleanup
Customizable with nuts, extra chocolate, or other add-ins
Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Perfect for meal prep or lunchbox treats
Ready in just 30–40 minutes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 very ripe bananas
1/2 cup almond butter
4 tablespoons maple syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until mostly smooth.
Stir in the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, espresso powder (if using), and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir just until combined.
Fold in 2/3 cup of the chocolate chips, saving the rest for topping.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30–40 minutes
Servings: 12 brownies

Variations

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water).
Extra Protein: Add 1 scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder and reduce cocoa powder slightly.
Crunchy Texture: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
Fruity Twist: Add dried cherries or raspberries to the batter.
Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne or cinnamon adds depth to the chocolate flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Let the brownies cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container:

At room temperature for up to 3 days
In the refrigerator for up to 1 week
In the freezer (wrapped individually) for up to 3 months

To reheat, microwave a brownie for 15–20 seconds or let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes if frozen.

FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use?

The browner and softer the bananas, the better. They add natural sweetness and moisture.

Can I substitute peanut butter for almond butter?

Yes, peanut butter or any other nut or seed butter will work well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe contains no wheat or flour, making it naturally gluten-free.

Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes. Replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan-friendly version.

Do I need espresso powder?

No, it’s optional. It enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted without affecting the texture.

How can I tell when the brownies are done?

They’re ready when the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, though it will slightly alter the flavor. Make sure to use the same amount.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by about 5–10 minutes.

Can I add frosting?

Sure! A thin layer of chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate these brownies even more.

Are these brownies freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap individual pieces and freeze for up to 3 months for easy snacking.

Conclusion

These banana brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream with a healthy twist. Moist, fudgy, and easy to whip up in under 40 minutes, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy a guilt-free treat. Whether you’re baking for your family or meal prepping snacks for the week, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to.