These Chocolate Banana Brownies are soft, fudgy, and full of rich chocolate flavor. Made with ripe bananas and cocoa powder, they’re vegan, dairy-free, and ready in under 30 minutes—no mixer needed.
½cupdark chocolate chipsoptional, also can use dairy-free chocolate chips
¼cupchopped nutsoptional, for added texture and flavor
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup or agave nectar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour (or oat flour), cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
Notes and Tips:
Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for the sweetest flavor and softest texture.
If using oat flour, the brownies will be slightly denser and more moist.
For extra fudgy texture, bake for 25 minutes and let cool completely before cutting. For less fudge texture, add 5-10 minutes of baking time.
To make them oil-free, replace coconut oil with equal parts applesauce, but expect a softer crumb.
Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; it keeps the brownies tender.
You can add 1 tablespoon espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
For nut-free brownies, skip the nuts or use sunflower seeds for crunch.
If your batter feels too thick, add 1–2 teaspoons of non-dairy milk to loosen it.
Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing for cleaner edges.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.