Why Make This Recipe

Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful way to indulge in the flavors of two beloved treats—banana bread and brownies. If you love bananas, brownies, or both, then this recipe is perfect for you! The combination of ripe bananas and rich cocoa powder creates a moist, chewy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. They contribute natural sweetness and moisture, making this dessert not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

This recipe is simple enough for baking novices but impressive enough for seasoned bakers. Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity, something to bring to a gathering, or just a sweet snack for yourself, Banana Bread Brownies are sure to hit the spot.

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Making Banana Bread Brownies is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. You’ll be amazed at how fast you can whip up this delectable treat.

Ingredients

3 medium Ripe Bananas (Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.)
1/2 cup Melted Butter (Enhances richness; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.)
1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the brownies and contributes to the perfect texture.)
2 large Eggs (Provides structure and helps bind everything together.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds depth to the overall flavor profile.)
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Forms the base structure for the brownies.)
1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Acts as a leavening agent.)
1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances flavors and brings out sweetness.)
1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Infuses chocolate richness.)
1/4 cup Milk (Incorporates moisture; substitute with almond milk for a lactose-free option.)
1 cup Chocolate Chips (Optional: add dark or white chocolate.)
1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Introduces a delightful caramel-like flavor.)
1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Enhances the banana flavor.)
2 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness when melted on top before baking.)

Directions

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your brownies bake evenly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the 3 ripe bananas with a fork or a potato masher until smooth. You want them to be mostly lump-free, but a few small chunks can add texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the 1/2 cup of melted butter to the mashed bananas. Stir them together until well combined. Next, add the 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Mix everything until the sugars start to dissolve into the banana mixture.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in the 2 large eggs and pour in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined and smooth.
Sift in Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sifting helps to remove any lumps and ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredient bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your brownies.
Add Milk: Pour in the 1/4 cup of milk and stir until the batter is smooth. If you’re using almond milk, it will work just as well.
Chocolate Chips: If you’re adding chocolate chips, stir them into the batter now. They give extra chocolate flavor and texture to the brownies.
Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Melt Extra Butter: Optional but recommended—melt the additional 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle it on top of the batter before baking. This will create a beautiful crust.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice them into squares for serving.

How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies can be served warm or at room temperature. For a special treat, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzling some caramel sauce on top can also add an extra layer of sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped nuts or additional chocolate chips on top before serving for a bit of crunch.

These brownies are fantastic as a dessert, but they can also be enjoyed as a snack or even for breakfast. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, and you have a delightful treat at any time of day!

How to Store Banana Bread Brownies

To store your Banana Bread Brownies, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Alternatively, you can also freeze the brownies. To do this, cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and keep them in the freezer. They will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.

Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Use Overripe Bananas: The more brown spots on your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter just until combined will give you the best texture. Overmixing can make them dense.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary greatly, so check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The toothpick test is the best way to see if they’re done.
Add Nuts: If you like nuts, consider tossing in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add other mix-ins like shredded coconut, dried fruit, or even peanut butter for a fun twist.

Variation

You can easily tweak this recipe to create different flavor profiles.

Peanut Butter Swirl: Before baking, scoop in dollops of peanut butter and use a knife to create swirls. This adds a delicious nutty flavor.
Nutty Chocolate Chip Version: Throw in some hazelnuts or almonds along with the chocolate chips for a nutty chocolate brownie.
Decadent Fudge Brownies: Increase the cocoa powder to 3/4 cup and lessen the flour to 3/4 cup for a richer, more chocolaty brownie.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just let them thaw and then mash them. They’ll add the same sweetness and moisture.

2. What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals 1 egg) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) as an egg substitute.

3. How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure that the other ingredients you use, like baking soda and chocolate chips, are also gluten-free.

4. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but it may affect the texture and sweetness. Start by reducing it by 1/4 cup, and adjust to your taste.

5. Are Banana Bread Brownies healthy?
While they do contain bananas, which are nutritious, they are still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation. You can make them healthier by reducing sugar or using whole grain flour.

These Banana Bread Brownies are a perfect treat for banana lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike. With a simple recipe and easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious dessert that makes the most of overripe bananas. Happy baking!