If you have bananas, peanut butter, and cocoa powder at home then you can make the most delicious 3 ingredient brownies! Something about me is I’m constantly stocking up on bananas. Not only because my toddler LOVES them, but they’re the star ingredient of so many of my healthy recipes. I use them most mornings in my 3 ingredient protein pancakes, then I always save some to make my 4 ingredient banana bread, and any leftovers get frozen for healthy protein smoothies!
Bananas are also the perfect base to this 3 ingredient brownies recipe. They provide structure and a natural sweetness to this gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and totally sugar-free recipe! The only other ingredients you’ll need are peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder. Then, grab just one bowl and you’ll be on your way to making the most rich and fudgy brownies that are light and healthy, but still taste indulgent!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only three pantry staples.
- Quick and Easy: From mixing to baking, you’ll have brownies ready in under 30 minutes.
- Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and contains no added sugars.
Sam’s Recipe Tips
- Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- Nut Butter Choices: Peanut butter adds a robust flavor, while almond or cashew butter offers milder alternatives. And for a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter instead!
- Optional Add-Ins: For extra sweetness, mix in maple syrup or sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
3 Ingredient Brownies
Equipment
- 1 large bowl
- 1 9×4-inch loaf pan
Ingredients
- 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Optional add-ins:
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for extra sweetness
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, cocoa powder, and maple syrup (if using). Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownie are just set in the middle.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.
