Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies combine the best of both worlds—moist, sweet banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies. These bars are soft, dense, and packed with banana flavor, with just the right amount of chocolatey goodness. Perfect as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast, they’re easy to make and a great way to use up ripe bananas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Best of Both Worlds – A delicious blend of banana bread and brownies.
• Soft, Moist, and Fudgy – The perfect chewy texture with rich chocolate flavor.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and one-bowl preparation.
• Great for Using Overripe Bananas – A delicious way to prevent food waste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Banana Brownie Base:

• Ripe bananas, mashed
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Cocoa powder
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
• Chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream or milk
• Vanilla extract

Directions

Making the Banana Brownie Base:

1. Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mash Bananas – In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients – Stir in melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
5. Mix Everything Together – Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Add Chocolate Chips & Nuts (Optional) – Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts for extra texture.
7. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool Completely – Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing.

Making the Glaze (Optional):

1. Mix Glaze Ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle Over Brownies – Once the brownies are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top for extra sweetness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 brownies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Peanut Butter Banana Brownies – Swirl in melted peanut butter before baking.
• Extra Chocolatey – Stir in dark chocolate chunks for an intense cocoa flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk for the glaze.
• Cinnamon Banana Brownies – Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
• Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes! Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mashing.

How do I make them fudgier?

Use more butter and less flour, and avoid overbaking.

Can I skip the cocoa powder for more banana flavor?

Yes! You’ll get a more banana bread-like texture.

What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?

Chill the brownies first, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I add a caramel drizzle?

Absolutely! Drizzle caramel sauce over the brownies for extra indulgence.

Are these brownies cakey or fudgy?

They’re a perfect balance—moist like banana bread but with a slightly fudgy texture.

Can I make them without eggs?

Yes! Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).

What’s the best type of chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks work best.

Can I add coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor?

Yes! Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for depth.

How do I know when they’re done?

A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Conclusion

These Homemade Banana Bread Brownies are soft, moist, and loaded with banana-chocolate goodness. Whether you’re making them as a quick dessert or a sweet snack, they’re the perfect way to use up ripe bananas. Try them today and enjoy a delicious twist on classic brownies!

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