Oh. My. Goodness. If you think you know banana bread, wait until you try these banana bread brownies! They’re like a cozy hug in dessert form—rich, fudgy, and bursting with that sweet banana flavor we all love. I stumbled upon this recipe one rainy afternoon when I had a couple of super ripe bananas just begging to be used. I decided to shake things up and turn my traditional banana bread into a brownie, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The texture is so decadent, and the chocolate chips melt beautifully into the batter, taking it to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try these banana bread brownies, you might just forget all about plain old banana bread!
Ingredients List
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed until smooth)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (sifted)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How to Prepare Banana Bread Brownies
Getting these banana bread brownies from your kitchen to your belly is a breeze! I promise, you’ll love how simple the process is. Let’s dive right in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to getting those brownies baked just right.
- While the oven is warming up, grab your ripe bananas and mash them in a bowl until they’re smooth and creamy. You want that banana goodness to shine through!
- Next, mix in the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined. The aroma at this stage is already heavenly!
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Sifting helps to break up any lumps and ensures a nice, even texture.
- Now it’s time to combine! Gradually fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture. Be gentle; we want those brownies to stay nice and fudgy!
- Once everything is mixed, fold in those delicious chocolate chips. They’re the cherry on top of this delightful dessert!
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. I like to use a spatula to get every last bit out of the bowl—no brownie left behind!
- Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Finally, let the brownies cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re cool, cut them into squares and get ready for the indulgence!
And just like that, your kitchen is filled with the irresistible scent of banana bread brownies. Enjoy the process and don’t forget to sneak a taste before they’re all gone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth—way better than your average banana bread!
- Incredibly easy to make, even for kitchen newbies—just mix, pour, and bake!
- Perfect way to use up overripe bananas—no waste here, just pure deliciousness!
- The addition of chocolate chips elevates the flavor, making each bite a decadent treat.
- Great for sharing, but you might want to keep these brownies all to yourself!
- They stay moist and flavorful for days, so you can enjoy them well into the week!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to whip up these delightful banana bread brownies, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!
- Use overripe bananas: The riper, the better! Those brown, speckled beauties are packed with sweetness and flavor that make your brownies extra delicious. Don’t toss those bad boys out—use them!
- Don’t overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher brownies instead of that luscious fudgy texture we’re after.
- Check for doneness: Start checking your brownies at the 25-minute mark. Ovens can vary, so a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, they need more time!
- Cool before cutting: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but allowing your brownies to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack helps them set up nicely. This way, you’ll get those perfect, clean squares!
- Storing leftovers: If you have any brownies left (which is a big if!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll be your secret stash for when those chocolate cravings hit!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to making the best banana bread brownies ever! Enjoy every bite and happy baking!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delicious banana bread brownies! Here’s a typical breakdown for one brownie, based on standard ingredients:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose. But hey, whether you’re counting or just indulging, these brownies are a sweet treat worth every bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous (and trust me, you’ll want to be!), there are so many fun ways to customize your banana bread brownies. Here are some of my favorite variations that can take these already delicious treats to the next level:
- Nuts: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. They complement the banana and chocolate beautifully!
- Chocolate Chips: Feel free to mix it up with different types of chocolate chips—dark, milk, or even white chocolate. Each brings its own unique twist!
- Spices: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and flavor. It adds a lovely aromatic touch that makes these brownies even more comforting.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle some creamy peanut butter on top of the batter before baking and use a knife to create a beautiful swirl. The combination of banana, chocolate, and peanut butter is simply heavenly!
- Caramel Drizzle: Once they’re baked and cooled, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for a decadent finish. It adds a sweet, gooey contrast that’s just irresistible!
- Mint Chocolate: For a refreshing twist, toss in some mint chocolate chips or add a few drops of mint extract to the batter. It’s like a chocolatey breath of fresh air!
These variations can make each batch of banana bread brownies a new experience! So, don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor them to your taste. Happy experimenting!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these delicious banana bread brownies? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my best answers.
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid. Frozen bananas work wonderfully and can add extra moisture to your brownies!
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes). Both options will help bind the ingredients together!
How do I store leftovers?
Store your banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months!
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You sure can! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your baking powder is gluten-free, too. They’ll still turn out delicious!
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you’re out of cocoa powder, you could try using carob powder as a substitute, though it will give a different flavor. Alternatively, you can make a banana bread version by leaving out the cocoa powder altogether and adding more flour!
Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions. I’m here to help you create the best banana bread brownies ever!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of these mouthwatering banana bread brownies, let’s talk about how to serve them for maximum indulgence! Trust me, the right pairing can take your dessert experience to a whole new level.
- Ice Cream: Seriously, is there anything better than a warm brownie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? The cold creaminess melts into the fudgy brownie, creating a heavenly contrast. You can even drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an extra treat!
- Coffee: Enjoying these brownies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee is a match made in heaven! The rich flavors of the brownie complement the coffee beautifully, making it a great afternoon pick-me-up.
- Fruit Salad: For a lighter option, serve your brownies alongside a refreshing fruit salad. The bright, juicy fruits provide a nice balance to the rich chocolatey goodness of the brownies. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your dessert plate!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of your brownie can elevate it even more! You can make it plain or add a hint of vanilla or almond extract for a little twist.
- Nut Butter: Spread some almond or peanut butter on top of a warm brownie for a nutty, creamy contrast that complements the banana flavor perfectly. It’s a simple yet delightful addition!
These banana bread brownies are versatile and can be served in so many delightful ways. Don’t hesitate to mix and match your favorites! Enjoy your delicious creations and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies: 7 Irresistible Comfort Delights
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious twist on traditional banana bread, these brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with banana flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Mix in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Combine dry ingredients with the banana mixture.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for better flavor.
- Store brownies in an airtight container.
- These brownies can be frozen for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: banana bread brownies, brownies, banana dessert
