Description
Banana Chocolate Brownies
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (50 g) cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 banana, sliced for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
4. Mix Batter:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until combined. Fold in the mashed banana.
5. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Top with banana slices and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the brownies cool completely before slicing.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect brownies every time. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat thoroughly. For the wet ingredients, whisk the melted butter and sugar vigorously for a full minute to help dissolve the sugar, then add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. The mashed banana should be very ripe with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture. When combining wet and dry mixtures, fold gently with a spatula just until no flour streaks remain; overmixing develops gluten and leads to a cakey texture. For the topping, dip the banana slices in a little lemon juice to prevent excessive browning during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These rich, fudgy brownies are versatile. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert. For a decadent twist, drizzle with salted caramel or hot fudge sauce. They pair wonderfully with a cup of cold milk, black coffee, or a dessert wine. For a brunch option, dust with powdered sugar and serve alongside fresh berries.
How-to Summary
To make Banana Chocolate Brownies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, sift flour, cocoa, salt, and baking powder. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in mashed banana. Pour into a lined 8×8-inch pan, top with banana slices, and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use oil instead of butter? Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of a neutral oil like vegetable or canola. The texture will be slightly more fudgy, but the flavor will be less rich.
How should I store these brownies? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer for up to 3 months.
My brownies are too cakey. What happened? This is usually caused by overmixing the batter after adding the flour, or by using too much baking powder. Mix just until combined and measure your leavening carefully.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips? Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips along with the mashed banana for added texture.
What if my toothpick comes out completely clean? A clean toothpick means the brownies are overbaked and may be dry. For fudgy brownies, you want a few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick when you test it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using underripe bananas: Green or yellow bananas lack the sweetness and moisture of ripe, spotted bananas.
- Not sifting dry ingredients: Sifting cocoa and flour prevents lumps and ensures even mixing.
- Slicing while warm: Cutting before the brownies are fully cooled causes them to crumble and fall apart.
- Overbaking: Rely on the toothpick test (a few crumbs) rather than a timer alone, as oven temperatures vary.
Conclusion
These Banana Chocolate Brownies are a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas, offering a delicious twist on a classic dessert. The banana adds natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in an incredibly fudgy and rich treat. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily master this recipe. They are perfect for any occasion, from a simple family snack to an impressive potluck dessert. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!