Every now and then, a recipe comes along that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. For me, that’s definitely these Banana Bread Brownies. Picture this: a cozy afternoon spent in the kitchen, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas mingling with rich chocolate wafting through the air. It’s that delightful moment of discovery when you realize you can blend two beloved treats into one indulgent masterpiece.
When life hands you overly ripe bananas, don’t just toss them in the blender for a smoothie; turn them into fudgy, irresistible brownies that double as a dessert and a snack! This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also merely calls for ingredients you likely have on hand. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to transform pantry staples into a decadent treat that’s bound to impress family and friends. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking—the best comfort treat awaits!
Why You'll Love This Banana Bread Brownies
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to create a dessert that feels like a gourmet treat.
- The fusion of banana bread and brownies results in an explosion of rich chocolate flavor balanced with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
- These brownies are versatile enough to serve as a delightful snack or an impressive dessert for gatherings, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Visually appealing and oh-so-decadent, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Banana Bread Brownies Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Banana Bread Brownies.
For the Batter
• 2 ripe bananas – the riper, the sweeter; they add natural moisture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – melted to provide richness; feel free to use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• 1 cup brown sugar – for that deep caramel flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – balances sweetness; can be adjusted to taste if you prefer less sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients together; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – elevates the flavor; you can use almond extract for a twist!
For the Dry Ingredients
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – gives structure to the brownies; a gluten-free flour blend works well too.
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder – the star that brings rich chocolatey goodness; you can use dark cocoa for an extra depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – helps with rising; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
For the Mix-Ins
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips – because more chocolate is always better; try swapping in white or dark chocolate chips for variety.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so that it’s hot and ready to bake those delightful brownies. This step ensures an even cook that will yield that perfect fudgy texture you crave.
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Mash the ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth. This will create a naturally sweet base for your brownies, enhancing their flavor and moisture.
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Mix in the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with the mashed bananas. Stir well until combined, creating a rich and creamy mixture that captures the essence of comfort.
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Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and give it another good stir. The eggs will help bind everything, while the vanilla adds a warm, enticing aroma.
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Combine in another bowl the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step blends your dry ingredients together, preparing them to enhance the chocolatey goodness of your brownies.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined; be sure not to overmix, as that can toughen the brownies!
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Fold in the chocolate chips, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the batter. This will create little pockets of melted chocolate in each bite—heavenly!
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Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, smoothing it out into an even layer. This helps ensure uniform cooking and gives you those beautiful, perfect brownies.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them toward the end; you want them to be toothpick-clean but still moist and fudgy!
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Let cool before slicing into squares. This small wait will allow the flavors to settle, making each bite even more satisfying!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a delicate touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Brownies are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead of time by mixing all the wet ingredients (mashed bananas, melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla) in one bowl and combining the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt) in another. Just keep the wet and dry mixtures separate in the fridge to prevent any browning of the bananas. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix the two bowls, fold in the chocolate chips, pour the batter into your greased pan, and bake as directed. You’ll have warm, fudgy brownies with minimal effort, just as delicious as if they were made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves their rich, fudgy texture while making them easily accessible for snacking.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, store the brownies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Be sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. For easy access, slice them first and layer between parchment paper.
Reheating: To enjoy your brownies warm, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the blend of flavors all over again!
Banana Bread Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
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Nutty Addition: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness. Nuts enhance the texture, giving each bite a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie base.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter on top of the batter and use a knife to swirl it in before baking. The peanut butter adds a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate bananas.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a hint of heat. This unexpected twist adds a warm spice that brings a whole new dimension to the otherwise sweet treat!
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Vegan-Friendly: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). This swap makes the brownies plant-based while keeping them deliciously moist.
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Fruity Upgrade: Add 1/2 cup of diced strawberries or raspberries for a burst of fruity freshness. This variation introduces a tangy note that beautifully complements the sweetness of the bananas.
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Double Chocolate: Use 1 cup of dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for an extra rich chocolate experience. This variation brings a deeper flavor and an intensified chocolate impact that’ll surely please any chocolate lover.
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Zesty Lemon: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist. The zesty notes brighten the brownies, keeping them light and vibrant, making for an unusual yet delicious combination.
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Coconut Flakes: Fold in 1/2 cup of sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair. The coconut adds a chewy texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and bananas.
What to Serve with Banana Bread Brownies?
Indulging in these delectable treats opens the door to a world of delicious pairings that enhance their chocolatey goodness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warm, fudgy brownies, creating a delightful texture harmony. Picture it melting slightly on the warm brownie—pure bliss!
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Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries and strawberries adds a fresh, tangy element that cuts through the richness of the brownies, offering a refreshing bite. Their bright colors also add visual appeal to your dessert plate.
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Espresso: A shot of rich espresso complements the chocolate flavor wonderfully, enhancing your tasting experience. Imagine sipping on this velvety drink while savoring a brownie—sheer heaven!
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making each bite even more delightful. You can also add a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top for an extra treat.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the brownies introduces a luscious sweetness that enhances their flavor profile. It turns a simple dessert into an indulgent celebration!
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Chopped Nuts: Adding toasted walnuts or pecans brings in a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, elevating the texture and making every bite a surprise. The added aroma of nuts enhances the overall experience.
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Milk or Almond Milk: A tall glass of cold milk complements the dense brownies perfectly. It’s a timeless classic that evokes nostalgia, making each bite feel cozy and comforting.
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Chocolate Ganache: For the ultimate chocolate lovers, drizzling a silky chocolate ganache on top creates an over-the-top treat that’s irresistible. It transforms your brownies into a gourmet dessert!
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Fruit Salad: A bright, refreshing fruit salad can provide a light counterpoint to the richness of the brownies, making your dessert choices feel balanced. Think a medley of vibrant flavors that awaken your palate!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For your Banana Bread Brownies, always use very ripe bananas as they provide the best flavor and natural sweetness in the recipe.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter once you combine the dry and wet ingredients; mix just until incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
- When melting the butter, ensure it’s not too hot to prevent cooking the eggs when you add them later in the mixing process.
- Lastly, remember to check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to ensure they come out perfectly fudgy and not overcooked.
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the sweetest and most flavorful Banana Bread Brownies, choose bananas that are very ripe with plenty of brown spots. The more developed the flavor, the better they blend into the brownie batter. If they have some dark spots or bruises, they are perfect to use!
How should I store my Banana Bread Brownies?
The best way to keep your Banana Bread Brownies fresh is to store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them to last longer, wrapping them tightly and placing them in the refrigerator will keep them good for up to 1 week. Just be sure to seal them well to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze my Banana Bread Brownies?
Certainly! To freeze your Banana Bread Brownies, first, let them cool completely. Then slice them into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, and for that freshly baked taste, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my brownies turn out dry?
Very! A common issue with brownies can be their texture, and if they turn out dry, it might be due to overbaking or using less ripe bananas. Make sure to check your brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick. You want it to come out with a few moist crumbs, not totally clean. If they do end up dry, enjoy them warmed with a scoop of ice cream to bring back their moisture!
Are these brownies safe for pets?
Absolutely not! While bananas are safe in moderation for dogs, chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats. Therefore, make sure to keep these delectable Banana Bread Brownies out of reach from your furry friends. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider making plain banana muffins with no added sugars or chocolate for their enjoyment.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs. Substitute flax eggs for a vegan version, which involves mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. For gluten-free brownies, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, using coconut oil instead of butter can cater to dairy-free diets. Enjoy the flexibility and personalize it to your taste!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking pan
- Mikcer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 2 ripe bananas the riper, the sweeter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar for deep caramel flavor
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar adjust to taste if desired
- 2 large eggs or flax eggs for a vegan version
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract for variation
For the Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda ensure it's fresh
- 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances flavors
For the Mix-Ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or white/dark chocolate chips for variety
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth.
- Mix in the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with the mashed bananas until combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and stir again.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and smooth it out.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing into squares.
