Healthy Banana Brownies {Flourless, Gluten-Free, and Paleo}

Gina Nuzum
Healthy Banana Brownies {Flourless, Gluten-Free, and Paleo}

These banana brownies are healthy, quick, and perfect for Valentine's Day! They're gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free and use common ingredients you probably have in your pantry.

We all know the feeling of craving chocolate. And when the feeling strikes, I want to grab something that will help my body get what it needs (magnesium) while also satisfying my craving.

Why you'll love this recipe

These brownies are gooey and chocolate-y and perfect for chocolate-lovers. 

There are zero grains. And this recipe is actually flourless! This makes the chocolate flavor even more dense and powerful.

All the ingredients are organic. During the winter organic strawberries are especially hard to find and using organic freeze-dried strawberries is a great way to enjoy them!

They are sweetened with bananas and maple syrup so you can avoid traditional white sugar. Bananas are naturally very sweet and help to get the right texture.

These brownies are quick to make and are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Tools Needed for this Recipe

  • Mixing Bowls
  • A whisk
  • A fork
  • Measuring cups and measuring spoons
  • An 8x8 baking pan
  • Parchment paper

How to Make Healthy Banana Brownies Step-by-Step:

Scroll to the end of this page to get the full printable recipe.

Note: Make sure to use all organic ingredients to avoid GMOs, pesticides, and to boost the nutrients you'll get.

Step 1: Start your prep. Preheat the oven to 350ºF and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper. 

Step 2: Mash the bananas with the fork and add the nut butter and the egg.

 

Step 3: Add the maple syrup and vanilla. Whisk together and set aside.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine the cocoa powder and the blended freeze-dried strawberry powder.

Note: Use a food processor or a blender like the nutribullet to blend the strawberries.

Step 5: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix with a spatula. Then, add the chocolate chips and mix to combine.

Step 6: Pour the batter into your prepared 8x8 baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes.

Note: I used a metal pan to allow for a more even bake. If using a glass pan, you may need to bake the brownies for a little bit longer.

Step 7: Once done, remove the brownies from the oven and crumble the freeze-dried strawberries over the top. Then, place back in the oven for 5-10 minutes. Ensure you don't overbake them. They should be slightly wet in the middle and not completely set. They will finish baking as they cool.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. They will continue to set up during this time. 

How to Enjoy These Brownies

When I think of gooey chocolate brownies I always think of milk or ice cream. My favorite is Almond Malk, made with only three ingredients: almonds, water, and salt. It's the perfect pairing and it's easy on the belly.

And of course, ice cream is the next best thing. Any dairy-free ice cream will do. If you like coconut, try finding one that is made with coconut milk. If you're not a fan of coconut, almond milk ice cream is another great option.

Another option is to add more nut butter on top!

How to Store

These brownies will store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To freeze, wrap the brownies and store for up to three months.

 

 Grab the Recipe

Healthy Banana Brownies

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Ingredients:

1.5 cups organic bananas, about 3 medium
2 Tbsp organic nut butter
1 organic egg
1/4 cup organic maple syrup
2 tsp organic vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup organic cocoa powder
1/2 cup organic freeze-dried strawberries
1/2 cup organic chocolate chips

Toppings:
freeze dried strawberries
chocolate chips

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper.
  2. Blend 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries until powdered. Set aside.
  3. Mash the bananas. Then, add your preferred nut butter and the egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the cocoa powder and strawberry powder.
  5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix well. Add the chocolate chips and mix to combine.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Top with chocolate chips. Bake for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven and add the strawberries. Return to bake for another 5-10 minutes.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before cutting.
  9. Serve with dairy-free ice cream, your favorite nut milk, or by itself!

NUTRITION FACTS: serving: 1 square; calories: 183kcal; carbohydrates: 36.32g; protein: 3.8g; fiber: 3.9g; sugars: 22.6g; fat: 4.41g
Originally published: February 3, 2024