Mediterranean Healthy Chocolate Banana Brownies – No Sugar, No Flour
Rich, fudgy, and naturally sweetened with bananas for a wholesome Mediterranean-style treat
These Mediterranean Healthy Chocolate Banana Brownies redefine guilt-free indulgence. Made without refined sugar or flour, they rely on ripe bananas for natural sweetness and creamy nut butter for richness. The result is a dense, fudgy texture with deep chocolate flavor—balanced by the wholesome goodness of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like nuts, olive oil (optional), and pure cocoa. Perfect as a snack, dessert, or post-workout bite, these brownies are proof that healthy baking can taste truly decadent.
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Serves: 9–12 squares
Ingredients
Ripe bananas: 2–3 medium (about 1½ cups mashed or pureed)
Unsweetened cocoa powder: ¼–½ cup (adjust for desired intensity)
Nut butter: ¼–½ cup unsweetened natural peanut butter or almond butter
Optional sweetener: 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (only if needed)
Egg: 1 large (for binding; can substitute flax egg for vegan version)
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Baking soda or baking powder: ½ tsp
Salt: A pinch
- Optional add-ins:
2 tbsp chopped nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds)
2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (optional but delicious)
Instructions
Preheat oven:
Set to 350°F (175°C). Line a small square baking dish (8×8 inches) with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.
Mash or blend bananas:
In a mixing bowl, mash ripe bananas until smooth, or blend them for a silkier texture.
Mix wet ingredients:
Add nut butter, egg, vanilla extract, and honey/maple syrup (if using). Whisk or stir until fully combined and creamy.
Add dry ingredients:
Stir in cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until a smooth batter forms. It should be thick but pourable.
Fold in extras:
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips, and gently mix.
Pour and smooth:
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out slightly moist (not dry).
Cool completely:
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. They firm up as they cool.
Tips
Use very ripe bananas: The spottier, the better—they bring natural sweetness and moisture.
Nut butter consistency: Use smooth, well-stirred natural nut butter (no added sugar or oil).
For extra fudginess: Use ½ cup nut butter and slightly underbake the brownies.
For a cake-like texture: Add an extra egg or a little baking powder.
Let them cool fully: They’ll crumble if cut too soon; cooling helps them set.
Sweetness check: Taste the batter before baking and adjust sweetness if needed.
Enhance flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate taste.
Storage tip: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer freshness.
Variations
Mediterranean Nut Mix: Use chopped pistachios, walnuts, and almonds for texture.
Olive Oil Twist: Add 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for richness and a Mediterranean note.
Tahini Swirl: Replace half the nut butter with tahini for a sesame flavor.
Coconut Dream: Mix in 2 tbsp shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, rested 10 mins).
Spice Boost: Add cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder for warmth.
Fruit Add-On: Add chopped dates or figs for natural sweetness.
Protein Power: Mix in a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder for a nutritious snack.
Q&A
Q: Can I make these without eggs?
Yes. Use a flax egg or chia egg as a vegan alternative for binding.
Q: Can I replace cocoa with carob powder?
Absolutely. Carob adds a mild, naturally sweet flavor and fits well in this recipe.
Q: Do these taste like bananas?
Slightly. If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, use the full ½ cup of cocoa powder.
Q: How can I make them sweeter without sugar?
Use overripe bananas or add a few chopped dates blended into the mix.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 30–35 minutes.
Q: What if my batter seems too thick?
Add 1–2 tbsp milk or yogurt to loosen it slightly before baking.
Q: How should I store them?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for up to 5.
Nutrition
(Per Brownie, Approximate)
Calories: 130
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 7 g (from bananas only)
Sodium: 60 mg
Potassium: 250 mg
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Healthy Chocolate Banana Brownies prove that dessert can be both indulgent and nourishing. With the natural sweetness of bananas, the richness of nut butter, and the depth of cocoa, they deliver all the flavor of traditional brownies without the guilt. Moist, fudgy, and deeply satisfying, they make a perfect anytime snack or healthy dessert. Serve them with a drizzle of yogurt, a sprinkle of nuts, or just enjoy them warm from the pan—pure, wholesome comfort in every bite.