3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana
If you’re a fan of brownies and looking for a simple, healthy twist on the classic recipe, you’ve come to the right place. These 3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana are a game-changer. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch of moist, chocolatey goodness that’s not only delicious but also packed with the natural sweetness of bananas. Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but want to keep things simple and nutritious. Let’s dive into how you can make these brownies!
This recipe is especially ideal for anyone on a busy schedule or those looking for a quick baking fix without the hassle of too many ingredients or steps. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, these brownies will satisfy your chocolate cravings while providing a healthier alternative to the typical sugary treats.
What You Need to Know About 3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana
These brownies are made with just three ingredients – bananas, cocoa powder, and a bit of vanilla extract. They are naturally sweetened by the banana, so you don’t need any refined sugar. This makes the brownies a great option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake or those on a clean eating journey. The result is a fudgy, chocolatey treat that’s still soft and indulgent but without the guilt.
Key Ingredients:
- Bananas: They serve as both the sweetener and binder for the brownies.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides the rich, chocolatey flavor that defines these brownies.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the flavor profile.
These brownies are also dairy-free and gluten-free, making them a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make these 3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana, you’ll need:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional:
- Pinch of salt (to enhance the chocolate flavor)
- A handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Start by prepping the bananas:
- Peel the bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Mash the bananas using a fork or potato masher until they are completely smooth. The mashed bananas will act as the base of the brownies and provide moisture.
Tip: For the best results, use ripe bananas as they will be sweeter and easier to mash.
Step 2: Add Cocoa Powder and Vanilla Extract
Now that your bananas are ready, it’s time to make the brownie batter:
- Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mashed bananas.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined. If you want to add a pinch of salt, do it now to bring out the chocolate flavor even more.
Tip: Make sure the cocoa powder is fully mixed in to avoid clumps.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Once your batter is ready, it’s time to bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small baking dish (about 8×8 inches) or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the brownie batter into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect 3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Overripe bananas work best for this recipe.
- Cocoa Powder: Always use unsweetened cocoa powder for this recipe. Sweetened cocoa will make your brownies too sweet.
- Extra Ingredients: If you’d like to add a bit of crunch, feel free to mix in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit.
Nutritional Information
Below is a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content for one serving (assuming 8 servings from the recipe):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 14 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 2% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Q&A Section
Q: Can I substitute the cocoa powder for something else?
A: While cocoa powder is essential for the rich chocolate flavor, you can experiment with carob powder if you prefer a different taste or if you’re avoiding chocolate for any reason. Just be aware that carob is sweeter than cocoa, so you may want to reduce the amount of banana used.
Q: Can I make these brownies vegan?
A: Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as long as you ensure that the cocoa powder and vanilla extract don’t contain any animal-derived ingredients.
Q: How can I make these brownies less sweet?
A: If you want to cut down on the sweetness, use less ripe bananas. The less ripe they are, the less sugar they contain. You can also reduce the number of bananas you use.
Q: Can I freeze the brownies?
A: Yes! You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container before freezing. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Conclusion
These 3 Ingredient Brownies with Banana are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things simple and healthy. With just three ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that’s not only easy to make but also nutritious. Perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a chocolate treat without all the extra sugar and flour. So, the next time you’re craving brownies, give this simple, guilt-free recipe a try and enjoy the goodness of bananas and cocoa in every bite!