If you’re craving something that perfectly blends the moist, comforting sweetness of banana bread with the rich, chocolaty indulgence of brownies, you absolutely have to try this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe. It’s the kind of treat that makes your kitchen smell like heaven and leaves everyone reaching for just one more bite. Moist bananas, deep cocoa flavor, and optional chocolate chips or nuts come together to create a dessert that is somehow both familiar and exciting, perfect for sharing or savoring solo on a cozy afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating your own batch of Banana Bread Brownies Recipe magic. Each component plays a special role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma from your oven.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that tender crumb everyone loves.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the banana’s natural sweetness; feel free to adjust to taste.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture and structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The basic building block that creates structure without heaviness.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings that classic chocolate depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the brownies rise just enough for a tender bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens chocolate flavors.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional): For an extra burst of melty chocolate goodness.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds crunch and a lovely contrast to the soft texture.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for an easier cleanup and simple brownie removal. This sets the stage for perfect baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your mashed bananas with the melted butter. This duo creates the moist and buttery base that gives your brownies their irresistible texture. Once combined, stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the cocoa and leavening are evenly distributed, preventing any pockets of pure flour or cocoa later in your batter.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, as this will keep your brownies tender and soft instead of dense and tough.
Step 5: Add the Extras
If you’re feeling a little decadent, fold in chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts now. They bring different textures and bursts of flavor that elevate this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe to another level.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This indicates brownies that are perfectly baked—not overcooked or underdone.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
After baking, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This makes cutting easier and ensures clean edges on each square.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can turn your Banana Bread Brownies Recipe into a fancy treat for guests. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream add a bright, fresh contrast that’s utterly delightful.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of strong coffee to complement their rich flavors and make your snack time feel like a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the brownies between layers of whipped cream and sliced bananas for a stunning banana brownie trifle. Or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes perfect for parties and celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for about a week. This keeps them moist and delicious, ready whenever a chocolate-banana craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze up to three months and thaw at room temperature for a quick dessert anytime.
Reheating
Warm up your brownies slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a warm oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes to recapture that freshly baked warmth and gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are actually preferred because they’re sweeter and have a stronger banana flavor, which makes your brownies even tastier.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can’t replicate the full chocolate taste without cocoa powder, but if unavailable, you might try adding melted chocolate in place with adjustments to fat content—though it will change the texture slightly.
Are the nuts necessary in this recipe?
Not at all! Nuts are completely optional. They add a nice crunch, but you can leave them out and still get amazing banana bread brownies.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum, and you should get a similar texture and delicious result.
How do I know when the Banana Bread Brownies Recipe is done baking?
Look for a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with a few moist crumbs attached—not wet batter. The edges will also start pulling away slightly from the pan.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to use ripe bananas, indulge your chocolate cravings, and impress friends and family with something a bit different but incredibly comforting. I truly hope you give it a try and love every bite as much as I do!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously moist and chocolaty Banana Bread Brownies that combine the best of both banana bread and brownie textures. Perfectly sweetened with ripe bananas and enhanced with optional chocolate chips and nuts, these brownies offer a rich, flavorful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 pieces ripe bananas, mashed (The riper the better for sweetness.)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (Melted for a rich texture.)
- 1 cup sugar (Can be reduced due to the sweetness of bananas.)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (For extra chocolate flavor.)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (Such as walnuts or pecans.)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and melted butter until well combined.
- Add Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla: Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful to avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Add Optional Mix-ins: If desired, gently fold in chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts to add extra flavor and texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating doneness.
- Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
- Serving: Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and enjoy your rich, moist Banana Bread Brownies!
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dessert, as bananas add natural sugar.
- Chocolate chips and nuts are optional but add great texture and flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender.
- Check doneness before the full baking time as ovens may vary.
- Store brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
