Why Make This Recipe
Banana Bread Brownies, also known as Banana Blondies, are an irresistible treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavors of chocolate and walnuts (if you choose to add them). They are moist, chewy, and incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. This recipe is a great way to use up those overripe bananas on your kitchen counter, turning them into something delightful and delicious. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or looking for a dessert to share with friends, these banana brownies fit the bill perfectly.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Making Banana Bread Brownies is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of delicious treats.
Ingredients:
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted and lightly browned
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. For easy removal, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted (and lightly browned) butter and brown sugar until you have a smooth mixture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Whisk in the egg and pure vanilla extract. Ensure everything is well-mixed, then stir in the mashed bananas until they are fully combined.
- Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon just until no dry streaks remain. Mixing too much can make your brownies tough, so be careful!
- Add Chocolate Chips/Walnuts: If you are using chocolate chips or chopped walnuts, gently fold them into the batter. This adds extra flavor and texture.
- Spread Batter: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. They are done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Slice into bars.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies can be served in various delightful ways. You can enjoy them warm right out of the oven or let them cool to room temperature. They make a wonderful dessert after dinner or a tasty snack at any time of the day. For an extra touch, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce over the top can also elevate them to a new level of indulgence.
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
To store your Banana Bread Brownies, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will stay fresh for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or gently heat them in the microwave.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
- Measure Ingredients Correctly: Make sure to measure your flour and brown sugar correctly. Too much flour can make the brownies dry.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
- Add Spices: Feel free to experiment by adding other spices like nutmeg or ginger for additional flavor.
- Personalize It: You can customize your brownies by adding nuts, coconut flakes, or even dried fruits.
Variation
- Nut-Free Version: If you want a nut-free option, simply leave out the walnuts or any other nuts.
- Gluten-Free: You can make these brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of the egg, and replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
2. How can I tell if my brownies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), your brownies are done.
3. Can I add other mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! You can add things like shredded coconut, peanut butter chips, or even chopped candy bars for a fun twist.
4. What should I do if my brownies are too gooey?
If your brownies are too gooey, they may need a bit more baking time. Just return them to the oven in 3-5 minute increments until they set properly.
5. How do I know when to stop browning the butter?
The butter is ready when it turns a golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to let it burn, as it can quickly go from brown to burnt.
Try this delicious Banana Bread Brownies recipe today for a simple yet satisfying treat that everyone will love. With their irresistible combination of flavors and straightforward preparation, these brownies are sure to become a favorite in your home!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously moist and chewy Banana Bread Brownies that combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with rich chocolate and optional walnuts.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted and lightly browned
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix the melted butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well, then stir in the mashed bananas.
- Gently fold in the flour, salt, and cinnamon until no dry streaks remain.
- Add the chocolate chips or walnuts if using, and fold them into the batter.
- Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into bars.
Notes
For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. You can also substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg