If you’re a fan of banana bread and brownies, why choose between them when you can have the best of both worlds? These Banana Bread Brownies are moist, rich, and full of comforting banana flavor, with just the right amount of chocolatey decadence. Perfect for dessert, snack time, or even breakfast (we won’t tell!).
Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this irresistible treat. Each ingredient brings its own magic to the recipe, so don’t skip any!
- Ripe Bananas (2 large or 3 medium, mashed)
Bananas are the star of the show here, providing natural sweetness and moisture. Tip: Use overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor. - Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted)
Butter adds richness and ensures these brownies are wonderfully soft. Pro tip: Let it cool slightly before mixing to avoid curdling the eggs. - Granulated Sugar (¾ cup)
For sweetness and a perfect brownie-like crust. You can adjust slightly if your bananas are extra sweet. - Brown Sugar (¼ cup)
Adds depth of flavor and keeps the brownies moist. - Large Eggs (2)
These bind everything together, giving the brownies structure while keeping them soft. - Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
Enhances all the flavors. Use pure vanilla extract if possible for the best results. - All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
Provides the structure. Be sure to measure it correctly—too much can make the brownies dense. - Baking Powder (1 teaspoon)
A little lift helps these brownies achieve the perfect texture. - Salt (½ teaspoon)
Balances the sweetness and brings out the banana and chocolate flavors. - Chocolate Chips (½ cup)
For that gooey chocolatey goodness in every bite. You can use dark, semi-sweet, or even milk chocolate chips.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Let’s get to the fun part—baking! Follow these simple steps for the most delicious Banana Bread Brownies.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. A few small lumps are okay—they add texture!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips gently. Save a few for sprinkling on top if you’d like a picture-perfect finish.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork for mashing bananas
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Wire rack for cooling
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Thaw frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing. They work just as well and often bring extra sweetness.
Can I substitute butter with oil?
You can replace butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. However, butter adds a richer flavor.
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
No problem! You can chop up a chocolate bar or use nuts, white chocolate chips, or dried fruits as alternatives.
How should I store Banana Bread Brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Ensure your other ingredients, like chocolate chips, are also gluten-free.
What if I want extra fudgy brownies?
Use an extra half banana for added moisture and bake them slightly less, checking for doneness at 22 minutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time to 30–35 minutes.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited about these Banana Bread Brownies as I am! They’re simple, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for satisfying both your banana bread and brownie cravings in one go.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends on Facebook using the share buttons below, or save it to Pinterest for later. Happy baking! 🍌🍫
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Banana Bread Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3
Description
Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, tender texture of banana bread with the rich decadence of brownies. Topped with a creamy glaze, they’re a delicious treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed; about 1 cup)
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (90 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks.
Bake the Brownies:
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the glaze.
Make the Glaze:
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.
Glaze and Serve:
10. Pour the glaze over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly. Let it set for 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Banana Substitute: For a different flavor, swap bananas with 1 cup of pumpkin puree.
- Add-Ins: Mix in chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a pinch of cinnamon for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed brownies for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
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