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Who says you can't have your cake (or brownie) and eat it too? If you're on the hunt for a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while aligning with your dietary preferences, look no further. These banana brownies vegan gluten free are a total game-changer. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy, chocolatey brownie that's also secretly packed with wholesome ingredients. We're talking naturally sweet bananas, gluten-free goodness, and absolutely no animal products. Forget those dry, crumbly vegan attempts you might have encountered before. This recipe delivers on both flavor and texture. We're diving deep into what makes these brownies so special, from the simple ingredients to the easy-to-follow steps. Plus, we'll share some tips and tricks to customize them to your liking. Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe for a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love, whether they're vegan, gluten-free, or just plain brownie enthusiasts!
Why You'll Love These Vegan GlutenFree Banana Brownies

Why You'll Love These Vegan GlutenFree Banana Brownies
Fudgy Goodness, Guilt-Free
Let's be real, most vegan and gluten-free desserts get a bad rap for being dry, bland, or just plain disappointing. But these banana brownies? They're the exception that proves the rule. The magic lies in the bananas, which provide natural sweetness and a moist, fudgy texture that's seriously addictive. You won't believe they're free from refined sugar, dairy, and gluten!
Plus, these brownies are incredibly easy to make. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required. Just a few simple ingredients, a mixing bowl, and an oven. Perfect for those moments when you need a quick and satisfying treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, these are ready in under 30 minutes!
Here's a quick breakdown of why these brownies are a winner:
- Fudgy and Moist: Thanks to the bananas!
- Naturally Sweetened: No refined sugar needed.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: Dietary restrictions? No problem!
- Easy to Make: Minimal effort, maximum reward.
Healthy-ish and Totally Customizable
let's not pretend these are a health food. But compared to traditional brownies loaded with butter, sugar, and white flour, these are definitely a step in the right direction. They're packed with nutrients from bananas, cocoa powder (hello, antioxidants!), and whatever nuts or seeds you choose to add. Think of them as a "better-for-you" indulgence that you can feel good about enjoying.
And the best part? They're totally customizable. Want to add chocolate chips? Go for it! Prefer walnuts over pecans? No problem! Feeling adventurous? Throw in some shredded coconut or a pinch of cinnamon. The possibilities are endless. This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Consider these variations to make them your own:
Variation | Ingredients | Why it Works |
---|---|---|
Chocolate Chunk | 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chunks | Adds extra pockets of melty chocolate |
Nutty Delight | 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans | Provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor |
Spiced Brownie | 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg | Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile |
Ingredients for Vegan and GlutenFree Banana Brownies

Ingredients for Vegan and GlutenFree Banana Brownies
The Banana Base
let's talk ingredients! First and foremost, you'll need ripe bananas. And I mean ripe. The spottier, the better! Those overripe bananas are the key to the brownies' natural sweetness and moist texture. They're not just a substitute, they're the star of the show, adding a depth of flavor you just can't get any other way. Think of them as nature's candy, ready to transform into something amazing.
Beyond the bananas, we're keeping things simple. A good quality cocoa powder is essential for that rich, chocolatey flavor. And to bind everything together, we're using a gluten-free flour blend. I've found that oat flour works particularly well, giving the brownies a slightly cake-like texture. But feel free to experiment with your favorite gluten-free mix. Just make sure it's a blend that's designed for baking!
The Supporting Cast
Now, for the supporting ingredients that elevate these brownies from good to great. A touch of almond butter (or any nut butter you prefer) adds richness and healthy fats. A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile. And a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate notes. Don't skip the salt – it makes a difference!
And of course, no brownie is complete without some mix-ins! I love adding chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats. But feel free to use any nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips you like. This is where you can really let your creativity shine. Just remember to keep the quantities in check, so you don't end up with brownies that are too dense or overloaded.
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Ripe Bananas | 3 medium | The riper, the better! |
Gluten-Free Oat Flour | 1 cup | Or your favorite GF blend |
Cocoa Powder | 1/2 cup | Unsweetened, high-quality |
Almond Butter | 1/4 cup | Or any nut butter |
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds flavor depth |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
Chopped Walnuts | 1/2 cup | Optional, for crunch |
How to Make Vegan GlutenFree Banana Brownies: StepbyStep

How to Make Vegan GlutenFree Banana Brownies: StepbyStep
Alright, ready to get your hands dirty? Making these vegan gluten-free banana brownies is seriously a breeze. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8x8 inch baking pan. This is crucial – nobody wants stuck brownies! Then, in a large bowl, mash those ripe bananas until they're nice and smooth. Think baby food consistency, but with more character. Add the almond butter and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and whisk until well combined. This creates the base for your fudgy masterpiece.
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free oat flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any pockets of cocoa powder or clumps of flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts (or whatever mix-ins your heart desires). Now, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. Patience is key here – warm brownies are delicious, but cooled brownies are fudgier and easier to handle.
Step | Instructions | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
1 | Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) & prepare pan | Ensures even baking and prevents sticking |
2 | Mash bananas, add almond butter & vanilla | Creates the moist, flavorful base |
3 | Whisk dry ingredients together | Ensures even distribution |
4 | Combine wet & dry ingredients | Forms the brownie batter |
5 | Fold in mix-ins | Adds texture and flavor |
6 | Bake for 20-25 minutes | Cooks the brownies to fudgy perfection |
7 | Cool completely before cutting | Allows brownies to set and become fudgier |
Tips, Variations, and Storing Your Banana Brownies

Tips, Variations, and Storing Your Banana Brownies
Baking Tips for Brownie Perfection
So, you've got the recipe down, but want to ensure your vegan gluten-free banana brownies are truly epic? Here's the inside scoop. First, don't be afraid of those ripe bananas! Seriously, the blacker, the better. They'll add the most moisture and sweetness. Also, keep a close eye on the baking time. Ovens vary, and you want fudgy brownies, not hockey pucks. Start checking around 20 minutes, and remember, a toothpick with a few moist crumbs is your goal. Overbaking is a brownie's worst enemy. And finally, resist the urge to cut into them right away! Cooling completely is crucial for that perfect fudgy texture. Patience, my friend, patience!
Speaking of perfection, here are a few more tips to keep in mind:
- Use a good quality cocoa powder: It makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten (even in gluten-free flour!), leading to tough brownies.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper: Makes for easy brownie removal and cleanup.
Endless Brownie Variations and Storing Tips
Ready to take your banana brownies to the next level? The possibilities are endless! For a chocolate boost, add vegan chocolate chips or chunks. For a nutty twist, try different nuts like pecans, macadamia nuts, or even chopped peanuts. Feeling fancy? Swirl in some peanut butter or raspberry jam before baking. And if you're a spice lover, a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add a warm and intriguing flavor. Get creative and experiment with your favorite combinations! As for storing your delicious creations, these brownies will keep at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Consider these delicious variations:
Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
---|---|---|
Peanut Butter Swirl | 1/4 cup vegan peanut butter | Drizzle over batter and swirl with a knife |
Raspberry Brownie | 1/4 cup raspberry jam | Drop dollops over batter and swirl |
Spicy Chocolate | 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper | Add to dry ingredients |
Your Guilt-Free Indulgence Awaits
So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and totally satisfying recipe for banana brownies vegan gluten free that ticks all the boxes. Whether you're whipping these up for a quick weeknight treat or a special occasion, they're sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don't be afraid to experiment with add-ins and variations to make them your own. Now go ahead, preheat that oven, and get ready to experience the magic of healthy-ish baking at its finest!