Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (15 g)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (5 g)
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (50 g)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

1. Mash the Bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth.

Step 2: Create the Batter

1. Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl with the mashed bananas and whisk until well combined.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the cocoa powder and baking powder to the mixture. Stir until the batter is smooth and uniform.
3. Add Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts, reserving a few for topping if desired.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease or line a square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Top with Walnuts (Optional): Sprinkle the reserved walnuts over the top of the batter.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice into squares and serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 9 g

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Banana Walnut Brownies are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Their appeal lies in their simplicity, versatility, and the nostalgic flavors they evoke. This recipe taps into the universal love for chocolate while incorporating the goodness of bananas and walnuts, creating a balanced treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your desire for healthier options.

The use of overripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also reflects the timeless principle of reducing food waste. By transforming otherwise discarded bananas into a delectable dessert, this recipe champions sustainability.

Moreover, these brownies are incredibly versatile. They can be customized with additional ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter. This adaptability ensures that Banana Walnut Brownies remain a favorite, whether you’re baking for kids, friends, or yourself.

FAQs

1. Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes! Replace the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed/chia seeds + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).

2. Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely. Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts make excellent substitutes for walnuts.

3. How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, they’re ready.

4. Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

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Tips for Perfect Brownies

1. Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense brownies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
4. Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool before slicing to avoid crumbling.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped brownies for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Banana Walnut Brownies are far more than a dessert; they are a celebration of simplicity, comfort, and creativity. The rich blend of flavors in these brownies—the natural sweetness of bananas, the deep cocoa undertones, and the earthy crunch of walnuts—makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion. But what truly sets them apart is their ability to transform ordinary pantry staples into something extraordinary, proving that you don’t need elaborate ingredients or complicated techniques to make magic in the kitchen.

This recipe is a prime example of how food connects us to cherished memories and traditions. For many, brownies are a nostalgic treat that evokes images of childhood, family gatherings, or the cozy comfort of baking on a rainy day. Adding ripe bananas and walnuts elevates this classic dessert, making it both healthier and more flavorful. It’s a dessert that caters to everyone—whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick bake, a beginner eager to try something foolproof, or an experienced baker seeking to add a wholesome twist to an old favorite.

The beauty of Banana Walnut Brownies lies in their versatility. They are a canvas for creativity. Want to add a swirl of peanut butter for a nutty kick? Go for it. Prefer a handful of dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence? Sprinkle them in. Need to adapt for dietary needs? Swap eggs for flaxseed or almond flour for a gluten-free option. These brownies embrace your personal touch, making them uniquely yours every time you bake them.

Furthermore, this recipe aligns with the growing focus on sustainability in the kitchen. Using overripe bananas ensures that no fruit goes to waste, highlighting the importance of mindful cooking. This approach not only minimizes food waste but also adds depth and natural sweetness to the dessert, reducing the need for additional sugar. In today’s world, where sustainability is more important than ever, Banana Walnut Brownies offer a delicious way to practice eco-consciousness without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.