There’s a certain magic to the aroma of baking brownies. It’s the scent one that folds around you like a favorite blanket—warm, comforting, and a touch nostalgic.
This specific recipe for Oatmeal Brownies is one to which I repeatedly return—not only due to its astounding simplicity and use of wholesome ingredients, but also because it transports me to the afternoons of my childhood, when my grandmother’s bright kitchen filled the air with the aroma of lovingly baked confections (and the occasional shortcut in the pantry).
These brownies are my idea of the perfect dessert: indulgent, fudgy, intensly chocolatey, and not too sweet. And here’s the best part: no flour, no eggs, and no butter to be found. We’re substituting in rolled oats, ripe bananas, and a bit of coconut oil to give us a treat that tastes sinful, but is deceptively healthy as well.
No matter if you’re avoiding traditional baking elements or simply need a low-maintenance dessert, this one’s a keeper. We’ll get started!
Why You’ll Enjoy These Oatmeal Brownies
Obviously gluten-free (you can use certified gluten-free oats)
Vegan and completely plant-based
One bowl, minimal mess, and no mixer required
Moist and chewy, and sprinkled with melted chocolate chips
Ideal for children, evening snacks, or serving to friends with coffee
A Little Backstory
The initial batches of these were whipped up by yours truly on a soggy Sunday when I had nearly everything in the kitchen: no eggs, no flour, no butter. However, I had two spotted bananas, a container of cocoa powder, and some oats on hand. Out of both curiosity and a serious need for chocolate, they were mixed up in a bowl and hoped to turn out okay. Guess what? Pure gold.
I have since modified and refined this recipe, and it’s one of the most sought-after desserts at our family events. My niece refers to them as “magic brownies” since they vanish so quickly.
Ingredients (Serves 9 small brownies)
- 2 ripe large bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats, ground into a flour (or use pre-made oat flour)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
- Optional: 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped, for crunch
Let’s Make It!
Step 1: Prepare the pan and oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease the 8×8-inch pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine the wet ingredients
In a big bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly. Pour in melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract and stir until they are thoroughly mixed together.
Step 3: Incorporate the dry ingredients
Add the cocoa powder, oatmeal, baking soda, and salt and stir gently until a thick, even batter is formed.
Step 4: Add in the good stuff
Fold in the chocolate chips (and the nuts, if using). Reserve a few chips to use on the top!
Step 5: Bake it up
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top. Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and slice
Let them cool in the pan for a minimum of 15–20 minutes before cutting. They will set firm when they are cooled, so worth the wait!
Star Tips to Ensure Brownie Bliss
Ripe bananas are key! The riper, the sweeter.
To create a nut-free version, omit the nuts and use allergen-safe chocolate chips.
Need a richer flavor? Swirl in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter prior to baking. Just trust me.
Store leftovers in a sealed container at room temperature for 2 days, or in the refrigerator up to a week (assuming they’ll last that long).
The Vibe: Flavor + Texture
These are dense and gooey in the center with a chewy texture thanks to the oats. There’s a slight crisp on top and golden puddles of melted chocolate, though. And the aroma? It’s like a hug in a different direction altogether—deep chocolate and a whisper of banana and toasted oats. It’s hard to resist letting them cool before you start devouring them.
Make It Yours
This is the type of recipe that encourages you to play along. Sub in applesauce for the bananas, use agave if you don’t have maple syrup, or add in dried cherries, shredded coconut, or espresso powder if you want a more adult version. The foundation is sound—you can create your own brownie escapade from here.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about baking in your own two hands—particularly when the ingredients are uncomplicated and the outcome is straight-up irresistible. These oatmeal brownies are a humble reminder that you don’t have to use fancy stuff in order to produce something really exceptional. So go ahead and put on your apron, crank up your favorite playlist, and give these a shot. And when you do, let me know how it turns out. Leave a note, post a photo, or mention me on social–come let’s celebrate the fun of homemade goodies together.