Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on two beloved treats—banana bread and brownies. Combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the sweet, comforting taste of banana bread creates a treat that is both indulgent and homey. This recipe is perfect for those who love bananas and chocolate together, making it a must-try for any dessert lover.
Why Make This Recipe
People often have ripe bananas sitting on their countertops that are perfect for baking. Banana Bread Brownies offer a great way to use those overripe bananas while satisfying your chocolate cravings. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and provide a unique dessert option that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they are great for sharing at potlucks, parties, or just for an afternoon snack!
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Making Banana Bread Brownies is simple and fun! Just follow the steps below to create this delicious treat.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup over-ripe mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons semisweet chocolate chips (for sprinkling)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9 x 9 x 2-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, use an electric hand mixer or whisk to mix ¾ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar together.
- Add in 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, then mix well.
- Stir in ¾ cup all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon salt just until combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, mash 1 cup of over-ripe bananas and sprinkle ½ teaspoon baking powder on top. Stir to combine.
- Mix half of the brownie batter with the banana mixture and set aside.
- Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder and ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips into the remaining brownie batter, stirring to combine.
- Spoon half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan (it doesn’t need to cover the bottom completely).
- Pour the banana mixture over the brownie batter, then drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter on top.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the two mixtures together. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of semisweet chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs attached.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
Enjoy your Banana Bread Brownies warm or at room temperature. They can be served plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra special treat. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for added sweetness.
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender.
- Experiment with different chocolate chips or nuts to customize the brownies to your liking.
Variation
You can add chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch. For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them and mash them well before adding to the batter.
2. Can I make these brownies without eggs?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg as a substitute.
3. How can I tell if the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. They are done when it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake!
Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter Softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar Packed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup over-ripe mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons semisweet chocolate chips (for sprinkling)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9 x 9 x 2-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix ¾ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar together using an electric hand mixer or whisk.
- Add in 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, then mix well.
- Stir in ¾ cup all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon salt just until combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, mash 1 cup of over-ripe bananas and sprinkle ½ teaspoon baking powder on top. Stir to combine.
- Mix half of the brownie batter with the banana mixture and set aside.
- Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder and ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips into the remaining brownie batter, stirring to combine.
Assembly
- Spoon half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan (it doesn’t need to cover the bottom completely).
- Pour the banana mixture over the brownie batter, then drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter on top.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the two mixtures together. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of semisweet chocolate chips on top before baking.
Baking
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few crumbs attached.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
