Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

Start by peeling the 2 ripe bananas. It’s important to use bananas that are overripe, as they’re much sweeter and will give your dessert a natural sweetness without the need for added sugar. The bananas should be soft and speckled with brown spots, indicating they’re perfectly ripe for this recipe.

Place the bananas in a large mixing bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher until they become smooth and creamy. You can leave a few small chunks for texture if you prefer, but aim for a mostly smooth consistency.

Step 2: Add the Cocoa Powder

Once your bananas are mashed, add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the bowl. Unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial because it delivers the rich chocolate flavor without the added sugars found in sweetened cocoa mixes. Stir the cocoa powder into the mashed bananas until fully incorporated. The mixture should start to take on a darker color as the cocoa blends in.

Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract (Optional)

If you’d like to enhance the flavor, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the banana and cocoa mixture. Vanilla complements the chocolatey richness and adds a warm, aromatic note to the dessert. This step is optional, but it can really elevate the flavor profile.

Stir the vanilla extract in well.

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Now it’s time to get your dessert ready for baking! Choose a small baking dish or an oven-safe pan that’s large enough to hold your batter. Grease the dish lightly with coconut oil, butter, or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Pour the Batter Into the Dish

Once your baking dish is prepared, pour the banana and cocoa mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. You can use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it’s flat and even across the surface.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is set and the dessert has a slight firmness when touched. The texture should resemble a brownie or a fudgy cake.

It’s important to keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking. You want the dessert to remain moist and rich in texture, rather than dry or crumbly.

Step 7: Let it Cool

After baking, remove the dessert from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. The dessert will firm up slightly as it cools, making it easier to cut into slices or squares.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it has cooled to your liking, slice the dessert into small squares or portions. You can enjoy it as is, or you can get creative with toppings. Here are some ideas:

• A dollop of whipped coconut cream or regular whipped cream for extra richness.
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
• Fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, to add texture and color.
• A sprinkle of shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or dark chocolate chips for added crunch and flavor.

Additional Variations to Try

This basic banana and cocoa dessert is highly versatile. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Banana Cocoa Mug Cake

If you're craving a single serving of dessert, you can make a mug cake version. Simply mix the mashed banana and cocoa powder directly in a microwave-safe mug, and microwave for 1-2 minutes until the cake has set. This is a quick and easy dessert for when you need a sweet fix!

2. Add Nut Butter

For added creaminess and a protein boost, stir in 1 tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter into the banana and cocoa mixture. This will give the dessert a richer, more indulgent flavor and texture.

3. Make It a Banana Cocoa Brownie

To make this dessert even more brownie-like, you can add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the batter. These ingredients will help bind the mixture together and create a denser, more fudgy texture.

4. Chill for a No-Bake Treat

If you prefer no-bake desserts, you can refrigerate the mixture instead of baking it. Simply pour the banana and cocoa mixture into a dish, cover it, and let it chill for 2-3 hours until firm. This creates a dense, mousse-like treat!

Why This Dessert is a Healthier Choice

What makes this banana and cocoa dessert a fantastic choice is that it’s made with whole, natural ingredients. Unlike many traditional desserts, which are packed with refined sugars and flours, this treat uses no flour and no added sugar. The natural sweetness from the banana is more than enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, while the cocoa powder offers a rich, chocolatey taste without the extra calories and sugar.

Moreover, both bananas and cocoa offer numerous health benefits, such as improving heart health, providing antioxidants, and supporting digestion. This dessert is also naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for vegan and dairy-free diets.

Final Thoughts

With just two key ingredients—banana and cocoa powder—you can make a delicious, healthy dessert that’s free from refined flour and sugar. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to your favorite chocolate treats or simply need a quick and satisfying dessert, this easy recipe checks all the boxes.

It’s simple, versatile, and full of nourishing ingredients that satisfy both your sweet tooth and your body’s need for wholesome food. Try it out today and enjoy a delightful, guilt-free treat that’s both decadent and nutritious!