Banana Bread Brownies: A Perfect Hybrid Dessert

Banana bread brownies are the best of both worlds – the comforting, moist texture of banana bread combined with the chewy, indulgent richness of brownies. These treats are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas while satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of mashed banana, vanilla, and a few simple pantry staples like butter, sugar, and flour creates a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy afternoon snack, these banana bread brownies will surely impress with their delicious flavor and texture.

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, taking only 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake. With its moist, dense texture and the natural sweetness from ripe bananas, these brownies are a healthier take on a classic dessert. The vanilla adds depth to the flavor, while the soft bananas blend seamlessly into the batter, creating a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re a banana bread lover or a brownie fan, you’ll fall in love with this hybrid dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Overripe Bananas

Got some ripe bananas lying around? This recipe is a great way to use them up instead of letting them go to waste.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can make these banana bread brownies in less than 40 minutes.

3. Chewy, Moist Texture

The addition of mashed bananas makes these brownies incredibly moist and soft, while the baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can add extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter to make these brownies your own.

5. A Hybrid Dessert

Banana bread and brownies come together in this recipe to create a one-of-a-kind treat that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Nutty Banana Bread Brownies: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter into the batter and swirl it through before baking for a delicious peanut butter flavor.
• Cinnamon Banana Bread Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter and sugar until combined. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until smooth.

Step 4: Fold in the Mashed Banana

Fold the mashed ripe banana into the batter, mixing just until combined.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid dense brownies.
• Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
• Let Them Cool: Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into them to ensure they set properly and hold their shape.

How to Serve

Banana bread brownies are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. For a fun twist, top them with whipped cream and fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries. Serve them as a dessert at a party, or enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy.

Reheating

For a warm treat, reheat individual brownies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be a little denser.

2. Can I make these brownies with a different type of sweetener?

You can try substituting white sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

3. Can I make these without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or another egg replacer if needed.

4. How can I make the brownies more chocolatey?

Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.

5. What can I use instead of butter?

You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil as a substitute for butter.

6. Can I freeze the banana bread brownies?

Yes, banana bread brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

7. How do I know when the brownies are done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

8. Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes! Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

9. Can I make the brownies in a different-sized pan?

If you use a smaller pan, the brownies may need extra baking time. If you use a larger pan, the brownies may bake faster.

10. Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Yes, adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg will give the brownies a warm, spiced flavor.

Conclusion

Banana bread brownies are a delicious and easy dessert that combines the best of both worlds — the moist texture of banana bread and the chewy richness of brownies. Perfect for using up ripe bananas, these brownies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Print