There’s nothing quite like the comfort of homemade desserts, especially when they come together in less than an hour. Picture this: the sweet aroma of ripe bananas blending with rich chocolate fills your kitchen, promising indulgence without all the fuss. That’s exactly what you’ll find in my Chunky Monkey Brownies. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon, and it has quickly become a family favorite.
These brownies strike the perfect balance between decadent and wholesome, thanks to the addition of mashed banana and a generous swirl of chocolate. They’re delightfully chewy yet melt-in-your-mouth tender—a soul-soothing treat that stands apart from run-of-the-mill desserts. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for an easy weeknight bake, or simply craving something sweet, these brownies check all the boxes. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to elevate your dessert game!
Why are Chunky Monkey Brownies irresistible?
Decadent Delight: The rich combination of chocolate and banana creates an unparalleled flavor experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, you can whip up a batch in under an hour—perfect for those moments when cravings strike!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These brownies are sure to impress at gatherings; they’re a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Unique Twist: Say goodbye to boring brownies! The banana adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that sets these apart from traditional recipes.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or swap the chocolate chips for a creative spin.
Homemade Comfort: There’s something special about baking at home, and with these brownies, you can enjoy a heartfelt dessert that beats any fast food option.
Chunky Monkey Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
• 2 cups UNBLEACHED all-purpose flour – A key ingredient that gives the brownies their chewy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor that complements the chocolate.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens up the brownie base just right.
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened (1 cup) – Ensures a rich and fudgy consistency; don’t skimp on this!
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/4 tsp. salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract – A must for adding a fragrant, aromatic layer to your brownies.
• 1/2 cup banana, mashed with a fork (about one medium-large banana) – This is the star of your Chunky Monkey Brownies, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
For the Chocolatey Goodness
• 10 oz. Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate baking melts – Offers a luscious chocolate flavor that will make your brownies irresistible.
• 12-oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate chunks – Adds delightful pockets of melty chocolate throughout your dessert.
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips for the top – Sprinkling these on top makes for a deliciously decadent finish!
With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a truly unforgettable batch of chunky monkey brownies! Enjoy diving into the delightful experience of homemade dessert that just a bit of chocolate and banana magic can provide.
How to Make Chunky Monkey Brownies
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine 2 sticks of softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/4 tsp salt, and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gently add 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of mashed banana to the mixture. Then, fold in 10 oz of Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate baking melts (or chocolate chips) with a wooden spoon until well combined.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13” glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures your brownies come out beautifully!
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Spread the Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Use a knife or a rubber spatula to smooth the top for uniform baking.
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Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chocolate chips over the top of the batter, creating delicious little pockets of chocolate goodness that will melt during baking.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 30-40 minutes. Your brownies are ready when they turn lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into bars. This resting time lets them set perfectly!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chunky Monkey Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which helps the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, the brownies can be baked and cooled up to 3 days ahead; simply cover them tightly to maintain their fudgy texture. When you’re ready to serve, cut the brownies into bars and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their gooey goodness. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Chunky Monkey Brownies Variations
Customize your Chunky Monkey Brownies to suit your taste and dietary needs, making each bite a personal delight!
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Create a decadent ribbon by adding 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter on top before baking; this adds a nutty richness to each bite.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a delicious vegan-friendly twist. Indulge without compromise!
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat regardless of dietary restrictions.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising and delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Fruity Boost: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate-covered raisins or dried cherries for an extra layer of flavor and texture, elevating your brownies a step further!
- Mint Chocolate: Stir in 1 tsp of peppermint extract and use dark chocolate chunks for a refreshing minty brownie that will invigorate your senses.
- Toppings Galore: Top your brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt or drizzle with caramel sauce after baking for an irresistible sweet-and-salty flavor combination.
What to Serve with Chunky Monkey Brownies?
Imagine serving up a spread that complements the decadent chocolate and banana goodness of these brownies. The perfect balance of flavors will make your dessert experience unforgettable.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the warm, fudgy texture of the brownies while adding a cool contrast. The classic pairing is always a hit!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries offer a tartness that cuts through the richness and brings a lovely pop of color to your dessert table.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy element that pairs beautifully with the density of the brownies. Consider a hint of vanilla to elevate the flavors!
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over your brownies creates a luscious, sweet experience. The buttery notes of caramel beautifully complement the deep chocolate.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee offers the ideal balance to your treats. Its rich, bold flavors will enhance the chocolate notes of the brownies while providing a cozy vibe.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a chocolate milkshake for a nostalgic pairing. This creamy delight takes the brownie experience to a new level of decadence!
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Mint Tea: A soothing mint tea can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing contrast against the sweetness of the brownies, making it a unique and delightful pairing.
These delightful accompaniments will take your Chunky Monkey Brownies from simply delicious to an unforgettable dessert experience. Enjoy crafting the perfect spread!
Storage Tips for Chunky Monkey Brownies
Room Temperature: Store completely cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer your brownies chilled or want to extend their life, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual brownie pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container. They will stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen brownies, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving—with a scoop of ice cream, if you’re feeling indulgent!
Tips for the Best Chunky Monkey Brownies
Butter Temperature: Use softened butter: If your butter is too cold, it won’t blend well, leading to uneven texture.
Banana Ripeness: Choose ripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
Mixing Method: Don’t over-mix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated; over-mixing can lead to tougher brownies.
Baking Check: Toothpick test: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean but with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready!
Cooling Time: Cool completely: Allow your brownies to cool in the pan before cutting to get nice, clean edges.
Storage Tips: Keep fresh: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness!
Chunky Monkey Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for Chunky Monkey Brownies?
Absolutely, for the best flavor, use ripe bananas! The riper your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will taste. Look for bananas with brown spots; this indicates they’re perfectly ripe and will yield the best results in your brownies.
How should I store my Chunky Monkey Brownies?
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy these treats for a longer period, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last for up to a week. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze Chunky Monkey Brownies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your brownies, cut them into individual pieces and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight or warm them directly in the microwave for a few seconds.
What if my brownies are too cakey or dry?
If your brownies turn out too cakey or dry, it may be due to overmixing the batter or baking them too long. Remember to mix just until incorporated and rely on the toothpick test; remove them from the oven when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. You can also add an extra tablespoon of mashed banana next time for added moisture!
Are Chunky Monkey Brownies suitable for people with allergies?
It’s important to note that this recipe contains ingredients like eggs and gluten, which may not be suitable for everyone. If you’re baking for someone with a specific allergy, consider swapping out the flour for a gluten-free blend or using a suitable egg replacer like applesauce. Always check labels for allergens in your chocolate and other ingredients, especially if baking for pets or those with severe allergies.
How do I know when my Chunky Monkey Brownies are done baking?
To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center of the pan. They are ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking!
Deliciously Decadent Chunky Monkey Brownies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine 2 sticks of softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1/4 tsp salt, and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gently add 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of mashed banana to the mixture. Then, fold in 10 oz of Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate baking melts (or chocolate chips) with a wooden spoon until well combined.
- Spray a 9x13” glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chocolate chips over the top of the batter.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into bars.