Why Make This Recipe
Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, rich flavors of banana bread with the chewy texture of brownies. If you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, this recipe is a perfect way to put them to good use. They’re not only easy to make but also deliciously irresistible. The fudgy brownie base enriched with ripe bananas makes for a delightful treat that the whole family will love. Plus, you can enhance them with a simple glaze for that extra touch of sweetness!
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients:
For the brownies:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the glaze/frosting (optional but amazing):
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the brownies bake evenly. Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Lining the pan will make it easier to lift the brownies out once they’re baked.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It’s essential to combine these ingredients well, as they form the base of your brownies.
Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, along with the vanilla extract. This is where the flavor begins to develop, so don’t rush! After mixing in the eggs and vanilla, stir in the mashed bananas until everything is well combined.
Now, add the dry ingredients: the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Mix these ingredients gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense brownies. If you’re adding nuts, now is the time to fold them into the batter.
Step 3: Bake
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a short while. In the meantime, you can prepare the glaze.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it, stirring until it turns golden brown. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once the butter is ready, remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Glaze the Brownies
Pour the glaze over the warm brownies and spread it evenly with a spatula. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling time allows the glaze to set slightly, making slicing easier.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a little extra flair, dust the brownies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or serve alongside fresh fruit for contrast.
These brownies also make a great accompaniment to coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert at gatherings. If you’re feeling festive, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top before serving.
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
If you manage to have leftovers (which might be hard!), storing them properly will keep them fresh. Allow the brownies to cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for up to a week.
If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Slice the brownies into squares, wrap them in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas that are mostly brown and soft.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough brownies.
- Customize the Nuts: Feel free to use your favorite nuts or leave them out entirely if nut-free is your preference.
- Try Different Flavors: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or add chocolate chips for an even richer flavor.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so check your brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking.
Variations
- Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate to half of the brownie batter. Swirl it with a knife to create a marble effect for added chocolate goodness.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: If you love peanut butter, drop dollops of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking and swirl it in for a tasty surprise.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the brownies right before serving for an extra sweet touch.
- Add Fruit: Consider folding in other fruits like chopped strawberries or blueberries for a new twist on the flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I substitute the eggs for a vegan option?
A1: Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
Q2: How can I tell when the brownies are done?
A2: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are ready.
Q3: Can I make these brownies without bananas?
A3: While bananas give the brownies moisture and flavor, you can substitute them with applesauce in a pinch, but the taste will be different.
Q4: Is there a way to make these brownies gluten-free?
A4: Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately for the best results.
By following this simple recipe for Banana Bread Brownies, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s sure to please anyone who tries it! Enjoy the perfect combination of banana bread and brownies in every bite!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich flavors of banana bread with the chewy texture of brownies, perfect for using up overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- Gently mix in flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until just combined. Fold in nuts if using.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
- To make the glaze, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour glaze over warm brownies and let cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature. They pair well with vanilla ice cream or can be enjoyed with coffee or tea.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg