3 Ingredient Banana Brownies: The Easiest Fudgy Treat Ever

Name: 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies: The Easiest Fudgy Treat Ever
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large overripe bananas (Heavily speckled or black peels are best); 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (Can substitute with almond or sunflower seed butter)

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Welcome to the simplest, most satisfying dessert you’ll ever make. These 3 ingredient banana brownies are a game-changer for anyone craving a rich, chocolatey treat without the fuss. Using just ripe bananas, cocoa powder, and creamy peanut butter, this recipe delivers incredibly fudgy brownies in under 30 minutes. It’s a naturally gluten-free and dairy-free dessert that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly delicious. Whether you need a last-minute dessert or a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is your new go-to.

This recipe was born from a classic kitchen dilemma: overripe bananas on the counter and a serious chocolate craving. Instead of making another loaf of banana bread, I wondered if I could create a brownie just as rich and satisfying but with a fraction of the ingredients. The result is this wonderfully simple, flourless brownie that lets the natural sweetness of the bananas and the rich flavor of cocoa shine. It’s the perfect way to use up those spotty bananas and get a decadent dessert on the table fast.

An overhead view of three perfect squares of 3 ingredient banana brownies, ready to be served. — Healthy dessert has never looked this good. Easy, quick, and so satisfying!

Why This 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies Recipe Works

You might be skeptical, but the magic of these 3 ingredient banana brownies lies in the simplicity of its components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

No Flour, All Flavor: By omitting flour, these brownies have an intensely fudgy and dense texture that’s pure chocolate-banana bliss. It’s a dream for anyone who loves the center piece of a traditional brownie pan.
Incredibly Quick & Easy: With only three core ingredients and one bowl, cleanup is minimal and the process is foolproof. You can have these brownies mixed and in the oven in less than 10 minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you need to whip up something sweet in a hurry.
Naturally Healthier: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and has no added refined sugar. The sweetness comes entirely from the ripe bananas, making it a treat you can feel good about. For a similar easy and satisfying recipe, check out these amazing Date Snickers.

The Magic Trio: Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is its minimalist ingredient list. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component is essential.

For exact measurements, please see the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Overripe Bananas: This is non-negotiable. The browner and spottier the bananas, the better. Overripe bananas are much sweeter and have a more intense banana flavor. They also provide the necessary moisture and structure for the brownies, acting as a substitute for both sugar and eggs.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This provides the rich, deep chocolate flavor that defines a good brownie. Since the bananas are so sweet, unsweetened cocoa powder creates the perfect balance without making the brownies overly sugary.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Peanut butter adds healthy fats, which contribute to the fudgy texture and rich flavor. It also acts as a binder, helping to hold the brownies together. You can use any creamy nut or seed butter you like.

A close-up shot of three fudgy dark chocolate banana brownies arranged neatly, highlighting their moist and dense crumb. — The secret to perfectly fudgy brownies? Just three simple ingredients.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Banana Brownies Step-by-Step

Making these brownies is as easy as mash, mix, and bake. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash the Bananas: In a medium-sized bowl, mash the overripe bananas until they are smooth. A few small lumps are perfectly fine, but you want a mostly liquid consistency.
Mix the Ingredients: Add the cocoa powder and creamy peanut butter to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until the batter is well-combined, thick, and glossy.
Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached.
Cool Completely: This is a crucial step! Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. They will be very soft when they first come out of the oven and will firm up as they cool, developing that perfect fudgy texture.

Tips for the Best Flourless Banana Brownies

Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a few expert tips. Here’s how to ensure your 3 ingredient banana brownies are a roaring success.

Use the Ripest Bananas Possible: I can’t stress this enough. Green or yellow bananas won’t be sweet enough and will result in a bland, starchy brownie. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown or are almost entirely black.
Don’t Overbake: The key to a fudgy brownie is to pull it from the oven at just the right moment. Overbaking will dry them out. The brownies are done when the edges are set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Let Them Cool Completely: These brownies need time to set. If you try to cut them while warm, they will fall apart. Be patient and let them cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes, or even pop them in the fridge to speed up the process.
Manage Your Expectations: Remember, these are not traditional flour-based brownies. The texture is incredibly dense, moist, and fudgy, almost like a cross between a brownie and a piece of fudge. They are intensely rich and delicious in their own right! If you’re a fan of rich, decadent desserts, you should also try my Pecan Pie Cheesecake.

Fun Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic recipe is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize these brownies. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey kick, fold in 1/2 cup of your favorite chocolate chips (dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate) into the batter before baking.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Different Nut Butters: Swap the peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or for a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter or tahini. Each one will impart a unique flavor.
A Touch of Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Sweet Swirls: For a beautiful presentation and delicious flavor contrast, add a few dollops of homemade chocolate syrup on top of the batter and use a knife to create a swirl pattern before baking.

Storage Instructions

These brownies are fantastic for making ahead. To store them, place the completely cooled and sliced brownies in an airtight container.

At Room Temperature: They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days.
In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. The texture becomes even fudgier when chilled!
In the Freezer: You can also freeze these brownies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before enjoying.

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What is the texture of 3 ingredient banana brownies like?

These brownies have a very dense, moist, and fudgy texture. Because they are flourless, they are not cakey or airy like traditional brownies. Their consistency is closer to a rich chocolate fudge.

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Can I make these brownies without peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute the peanut butter with any other creamy nut or seed butter. Almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini are all great alternatives.

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Do my bananas have to be overripe?

Yes, using overripe bananas is crucial for this recipe. Their high sugar content provides all the sweetness, and their soft texture provides the necessary moisture. Yellow or green bananas will result in a less sweet and more starchy brownie.

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How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges look set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become dry.

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Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes! Folding in 1/2 cup of your favorite chocolate chips is a fantastic way to make these brownies even more decadent. You can also add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra texture.

More Easy Dessert Recipes to Try

If you loved how simple and delicious these 3 ingredient banana brownies were, you’ll be thrilled to explore other easy dessert recipes. For a no-bake option that’s always a crowd-pleaser, try this No-Bake Oreo Lasagna. And for something truly unique, these Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos are a colorful and fun treat for all ages.

The Easiest Brownies You’ll Ever Make

There you have it—a simple, delicious, and surprisingly healthy brownie recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. These 3 ingredient banana brownies prove that you don’t need a complicated recipe to create a truly decadent dessert. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on Pinterest. We can’t wait to see what you bake!