When you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to compromise on health, these healthy banana brownies are the perfect answer. With natural sweetness from ripe bananas and nutrient-dense ingredients, you’ll satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your wellness goals. Ready to discover how to make these deliciously wholesome treats?
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Why Choose 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies?
Brownies are typically a rich, indulgent treat loaded with sugar, butter, and refined flour. But this 3 ingredient banana brownies recipe offers a lighter twist! By using natural ingredients like bananas, oats, and almond flour, these banana brownies are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a dessert you can feel great about.
Ingredients for Healthy Banana Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these naturally sweetened, better-for-you brownies:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe bananas (mashed) | 3 |
| Almond flour | 1 cup |
| Rolled oats (ground) | ½ cup |
| Cocoa powder | ¼ cup |
| Dark chocolate chips (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Honey or maple syrup | ¼ cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Healthy Banana Brownies
This recipe is easy to follow, using one bowl and a handful of wholesome ingredients.
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a little coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mash and Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, then add the eggs, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
- To the wet mixture, add almond flour, ground oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips for a hint of richness.
4. Bake
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy!
5. Cool and Slice
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
Pro Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top right before serving to enhance the chocolatey flavor.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Bananas
Bananas are a natural sweetener and provide a good dose of potassium, fiber, and vitamins. They add moisture and a mild sweetness to these brownies without needing extra sugar.
Almond Flour
Almond flour is a nutrient-dense alternative to regular flour, offering a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and low carbs. It also gives the brownies a delicious, nutty flavor.
Cocoa Powder
Rich in antioxidants, cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor without added sugars. It’s a great way to indulge in chocolate flavor while keeping the recipe wholesome.
Variations and Tips
- Nut-Free Option: Replace almond flour with oat flour if you have a nut allergy.
- Add-In Ideas: Try mixing in chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra texture and nutrition.
- Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter brownie, add a little extra honey or maple syrup, especially if your bananas aren’t very ripe.
FAQ About Healthy Banana Brownies
Are these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe uses almond flour and oats, both of which are naturally gluten-free. If needed, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I make these brownies vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) to make a plant-based version.
How should I store these brownies?
Keep the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to two months—just thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Do these taste like traditional brownies?
These banana brownies have a similar fudgy texture but are a little lighter and have a hint of banana flavor. They’re ideal for anyone seeking a healthier dessert that’s still full of flavor!
Give These Healthy Banana Brownies a Try!
Whether you’re looking for a snack to power your day or a wholesome dessert, these healthy banana brownies are a perfect choice. They’re simple to make, naturally sweet, and packed with nutrients that make each bite both satisfying and nutritious. Ready to bake up a batch? Let us know how they turn out!
