Brownie Bowl for Two

Sometimes you want something warm gooey and chocolatey but you do not want a whole pan of brownies sitting around. This brownie bowl for two is the perfect solution for an easy shareable treat. A single ripe banana forms the sweet base and everything comes together in one bowl for minimal cleanup.

I first came up with this when we had half a banana going soft and needed a treat for two fast. It always hits the spot after a busy day.

Ingredients

• Ripened banana: brings moisture and natural sweetness make sure you use a banana deeply speckled for best flavor
• Vanilla extract: just a splash enhances the chocolate notes use real vanilla for deeper flavor
• Almond milk: creates a silky batter without dairy choose unsweetened for more control over sweetness
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar: gives caramel like flavor and keeps things soft packed fresh sugar works best
• Baking powder: provides lift to create a light soft crumb double check freshness for best results
• Cocoa powder: delivers deep chocolate flavor look for unsweetened Dutch process if possible
• Oat flour: keeps this gluten friendly and gives a tender finish freshly ground oats give the best texture
• Walnuts: add crunch and earthy flavor choose fresh pieces and toast lightly if you want a richer taste
• Chocolate chips: for melty pockets of chocolate use a mix of dark and semi sweet if you love intense chocolate

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Spray a small oven safe bowl or corningware dish generously with cooking spray so the brownie will not stick and the edges get perfectly crisp

Mash the Banana:

In the baking bowl take a ripened banana and mash thoroughly with the back of a fork until almost smooth with just a few small lumps left for texture

Mix in the Wet Ingredients:

Add vanilla extract almond milk and brown sugar to the mashed banana Mix until the sugar dissolves and everything is fully combined

Add the Dry Ingredients:

Sprinkle in baking powder cocoa powder and oat flour Stir gently but thoroughly until no dry spots remain A rubber spatula can help scrape the sides and make sure the batter looks uniform

Add Walnuts and Chocolate Chips:

Fold in the walnuts for crunch then scatter the chocolate chips over the top pressing a few into the batter for gooey chocolate bursts

Bake the Brownie Bowl:

Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake at 375 Fahrenheit for about ten to twelve minutes You want the edges set but the center still soft and gooey so watch closely near the end

Serve Warm:

Top your warm brownie bowl with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of peanut butter for extra richness and enjoy straight from the dish

My favorite part is sinking a spoon into the molten center and hitting those melting chocolate chips The first time my niece tried it she declared it the best dessert ever and begged to make it again the next night It is become a cozy tradition on cool evenings

Storage Tips

Cool any leftovers to room temperature then cover the bowl and store in the fridge Brownie bowl is best eaten warm but you can reheat in the microwave for fifteen seconds to bring back the gooey texture If making ahead assemble all ingredients and refrigerate the batter unbaked for up to one day then bake fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap walnuts for pecans hazelnuts or skip nuts for allergy friendly Use any plant milk or dairy milk if preferred Replace oat flour with all purpose or almond flour for a different flavor profile Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a hint of caramel and a refined sugar free option

Serving Suggestions

Add fresh berries for a tart and juicy topping Scoop a little vegan ice cream or whipped cream over the warm brownie Drizzle with tahini or almond butter for a nutty twist

Cultural and Historical Context

Brownies began as an American classic but the single bowl version has exploded in popularity recently for couples or self care nights Making a brownie bowl is all about treating yourself without overbaking or overindulging The use of banana and oat flour ties into today’s love of wholesome baking

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon in the fall for a warm spiced note Stir in some orange zest around holidays for a chocolate orange treat Top with fresh stone fruit in summer for a juicy twist

Success Stories

My cousin started making this whenever her kids begged for dessert on a school night because it is so easy My neighbor preps the batter for date nights and bakes it fresh after dinner Every time I serve it someone asks for the recipe

Freezer Meal Conversion

While best made fresh you can freeze baked brownie bowls cool then tightly wrap and store for up to one month Thaw and reheat briefly in the oven or microwave until gooey again

Every time I bake this recipe I am amazed at how something so simple can feel so special in just a few minutes Brownie bowl for two is a favorite because it encourages slowing down sharing and savoring small moments together

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour if oat flour is unavailable. It may alter the texture slightly.

→ What can I use instead of almond milk?

Any plant-based milk or dairy milk will work as a substitute for almond milk in this bowl.

→ Is it possible to omit walnuts?

Absolutely. Walnuts add crunch but can be left out or swapped for another nut like pecans or hazelnuts.

→ How do I know when the brownie bowl is done?

The edges should be set while the center remains gooey. Bake for 10-12 minutes and test with a toothpick.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free oat flour. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free as needed.

→ What toppings work well for serving?

Classic toppings include ice cream and a drizzle of peanut butter. Fresh berries or whipped cream also complement the flavors.