Banana Bread Brownies

If you’re a fan of both banana bread and brownies, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Banana Bread Brownies recipe. Imagine the soft, moist texture of banana bread combined with the rich, fudgy indulgence of brownies. It’s the perfect dessert hybrid that will satisfy all your cravings. With ripe bananas bringing natural sweetness and the gooey chocolate brownies adding a touch of decadence, this treat is ideal for when you want to try something new, but still crave that familiar comfort food vibe. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Brownies

Here’s why these Banana Bread Brownies will become your new go-to treat:

A Perfect Mash-Up

These brownies give you the best of both worlds—banana bread’s fluffiness and brownies’ gooey richness. It’s like the perfect dessert hybrid.

Super Moist and Flavorful

The ripe bananas bring in a natural sweetness that keeps the brownies soft and moist, so each bite melts in your mouth.

Simple to Make

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a baking pro to make this delicious dessert. It’s a foolproof recipe for anyone who wants to enjoy something homemade without the hassle.

Irresistible Texture

These brownies have the chewy, dense texture of banana bread, but with that rich, fudgy brownie appeal. You’re getting the best of both worlds, and it’s a texture lover’s dream.

Easy to Customize

If you love nuts, chocolate chips, or even a little cinnamon, you can easily make this recipe your own. It’s the perfect base for your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients in Banana Bread Brownies

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ripe Bananas

The star of the show! Overripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the brownies, making them soft and flavorful.

Butter

For that rich, indulgent flavor that makes everything better—especially in brownies.

Brown Sugar

Brings a slight molasses flavor and helps achieve that moist, fudgy texture.

Eggs

Bind everything together and contribute to the soft, tender texture of the brownies.

Flour

The structure for the brownies. All-purpose flour works perfectly here.

Cocoa Powder

For that deep chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness of the bananas.

Baking Powder

To help the brownies rise and create that perfect texture.

Salt

Enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavor of the bananas and cocoa powder.

Vanilla Extract

Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the bananas and chocolate.

Optional Add-ins:

• Chocolate chips
• Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
• Cinnamon (for an extra layer of flavor)

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above!)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 210
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g

Instructions

It’s time to bake these delectable Banana Bread Brownies! Let’s dive right in:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mash the Bananas

Peel and mash your ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth. You want about 1 ½ cups of mashed bananas, which usually comes from 2-3 medium-sized bananas.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and whisk it together with the brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the mashed bananas and mix until everything is fully combined.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Add the Dry Ingredients to the Wet

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

6. Add Optional Mix-ins

If you’re using chocolate chips, nuts, or other add-ins, now is the time to fold them into the batter.

7. Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are fine).

8. Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares. This allows them to firm up and makes them easier to cut.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Serve these Banana Bread Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy them as is with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re just as delicious the next day, too, so feel free to store leftovers in an airtight container.

How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies

These Banana Bread Brownies are perfect for any occasion, and there are plenty of ways to serve them!

As a Dessert

Serve them on their own as a sweet treat after dinner. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream on top can make them even more indulgent.

With Coffee or Tea

These brownies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They’re not too heavy, so they’re the perfect snack to enjoy with your afternoon drink.

For Special Occasions

These brownies are also great for potlucks, birthday parties, or family gatherings. They’re easy to make in large batches, and everyone loves the combination of banana and chocolate.

Breakfast (Yes, You Can!)

Okay, maybe this is a bit of a stretch, but these banana bread brownies have that banana bread vibe, so why not enjoy them for breakfast? They’re the perfect balance of sweet and satisfying.

Additional Tips

Use Overripe Bananas

For the best flavor and texture, use bananas that are very ripe—think spotted, brown bananas. They’ll be extra sweet and will create a moister brownie.

Don’t Overmix

When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing could make the brownies dense or chewy instead of fudgy.

Add-ins Galore

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a little cinnamon can really enhance the flavor of these brownies.

Serve with Ice Cream

For the ultimate dessert experience, top these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination of warm brownies and cold ice cream is irresistible.

Store Properly

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for a longer shelf life. These brownies also freeze well—just wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen bananas?

A1: Yes! Frozen bananas work great for banana bread brownies. Just thaw and mash them before using.

Q2: Can I make these brownies without cocoa powder?

A2: If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can try substituting it with melted chocolate for a different chocolatey flavor, though the texture may be slightly different.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?

A3: Yes, you can double the recipe! Just use a larger baking pan (9×13-inch) and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes.

Q4: Can I add other fruits?

A4: Absolutely! You can experiment with adding chopped strawberries, blueberries, or even apples for a twist on this classic.

Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A5: Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking.

Q6: Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

A6: While brown sugar gives these brownies a bit of extra moisture and flavor, you can use white sugar if that’s all you have on hand.

Q7: Can I make these banana bread brownies vegan?

A7: Yes, you can make them vegan by swapping the butter for a plant-based butter and using flax eggs or another egg substitute.

Q8: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A8: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge.

Q9: Can I freeze these brownies?

A9: Yes, these brownies freeze beautifully. Just wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature.

Q10: How can I make these brownies more decadent?

A10: Top these brownies with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence!

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect balance of banana bread and chocolate brownies. They’re moist, fudgy, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make—no complicated steps required! Whether you’re using overripe bananas or just craving something sweet, these brownies will hit the spot. So go ahead, make a batch, and enjoy every last bite!

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