Craving brownies but trying to stick to your healthy eating goals? This recipe is your answer! Forget those dense, sugary treats – these healthy banana brownies are surprisingly moist, fudgy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. They're the perfect after-school snack, a satisfying dessert, or even a surprisingly healthy addition to your breakfast (don't judge!). This recipe delivers a delicious taste without the guilt, making it a winner for both quick dinner ideas and satisfying sweet cravings. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, even for beginner bakers. Get ready to experience the best recipes you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup chocolate chips (dark chocolate preferred for a healthier option)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures perfectly formed brownies.
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Mash & Mix (Wet Ingredients): In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the applesauce, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. This creates the base of our delicious and healthy brownies.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients within the batter.
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Gentle Incorporation: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies.
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips. Resist the urge to add more—a little goes a long way!
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not completely clean). Overbaking will result in dry brownies, so keep an eye on them!
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Cooling & Serving: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for easier cutting and serving.
Tips for Success:
- Banana Ripeness: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe!
- Almond Flour: Almond flour can be substituted with other nut flours, but the texture might slightly vary.
- Chocolate Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate—to suit your preference.
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and complexity.
- Fruity Twist: Fold in some blueberries or raspberries for a delightful fruity twist.
Nutritional Information (per brownie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients used)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Enjoy these healthy banana brownies! They're a perfect example of how delicious and healthy can go hand in hand. This easy recipe is a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. Let us know how you enjoyed them in the comments below!