Banana Bread Brownies

Name: Banana Bread Brownies: A Delicious Twist Awaits You!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Posted on July 27, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Banana Bread Brownies

Welcome to the delightful world of Banana Bread Brownies! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while trying to whip up something delicious can feel overwhelming. But fear not! This recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days when you crave something sweet yet comforting. Imagine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies combined with the warm, familiar flavors of banana bread. It’s a treat that’s sure to impress your loved ones and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Brownies

These Banana Bread Brownies are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of moist banana bread and rich chocolate flavors creates a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Trust me, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Banana Bread Brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! They add natural sweetness and moisture.
Melted Butter: This gives the brownies a rich flavor and fudgy texture.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. You can use brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Large Egg: It helps bind everything together, giving the brownies structure.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The base for your brownies, providing the necessary structure.
Cocoa Powder: This is what transforms your banana bread into rich, chocolatey brownies.
Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the brownies rise slightly.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
Chocolate Chips (optional): For those who can’t resist extra chocolate, these are a delicious addition!

Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts for crunch or spices like cinnamon for warmth. If you’re looking for exact measurements, they’re available at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making these delicious Banana Bread Brownies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven heats up, grease your baking pan. I like to use butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. A well-greased pan makes for easy removal and perfect-looking brownies!

Step 2: Prepare the Bananas

Next, grab those ripe bananas and mash them up! Use a fork or a potato masher to get them nice and smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your brownies will be. Aim for a creamy consistency, as this will help create that moist texture we all love in banana bread brownies.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the melted butter to your mashed bananas. Mix them together until well combined. Then, stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. This mixing process is essential because it helps to incorporate air into the batter, giving your brownies a light and fluffy texture. Don’t rush; take your time to blend everything nicely!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking is key here! It helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour, ensuring that your brownies rise perfectly. Plus, it breaks up any lumps in the cocoa powder, giving you a smooth batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, and we want them to be soft and fudgy.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients

If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to fold in those chocolate chips or nuts. They add a delightful crunch and extra flavor to your brownies. Just be sure to mix them in gently so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready! Once baked, let them cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is important; it helps the brownies set up perfectly for cutting.

Tips for Success

Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for fudgy brownies.
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for clean edges.
Experiment with add-ins like nuts or spices to customize your flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Baking Pan: A 9×9 inch pan works perfectly. You can also use a larger pan for thinner brownies.
Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do. You can use one for wet and one for dry ingredients.
Whisk: A whisk is great for mixing dry ingredients. A fork can work in a pinch!
Spatula: Use a spatula to fold in ingredients and scrape the bowl clean.

Variations on Banana Bread Brownies

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the brownies.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that enhances the banana taste.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter into the batter before baking and swirl it for a deliciously nutty twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.

Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Brownies

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
Top with whipped cream and fresh banana slices for a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

FAQs about Banana Bread Brownies

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen bananas work great in Banana Bread Brownies. Just thaw them and mash them up. They’ll add the same moisture and sweetness as fresh ones.

How do I store leftover brownies?

Store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just thaw before serving!

Can I make these brownies without eggs?

Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. This makes the brownies vegan-friendly while still keeping them moist and delicious.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon. These additions can elevate your Banana Bread Brownies to a whole new level of deliciousness!

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit as they cool!

Final Thoughts

Making Banana Bread Brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in your kitchen. The aroma of chocolate and bananas wafting through your home is pure bliss. These brownies are perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during a quiet moment with a cup of coffee. They’re a delightful way to use up those overripe bananas while indulging in a rich, fudgy treat. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the joy of baking fill your heart. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your home!