Tasty Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe is the perfect blend of moist banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies, creating an irresistible treat for any occasion. This recipe combines the sweet, comforting taste of ripe bananas with the decadence of chocolatey brownies, resulting in a dessert that’s both soft and chewy.

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious banana bread brownies:

For the Banana Bread Brownies:

• 2 large ripe bananas – Mashed for natural sweetness and moisture.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and a soft texture.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the brownies without overpowering the banana flavor.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Enhances the moisture and adds a slight caramelized taste.
• 2 large eggs – Provides structure and helps create a soft, fudgy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts the overall flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base of the batter for the perfect balance of chewiness and density.
• ¼ cup cocoa powder – Gives the brownies a deep chocolate flavor.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the brownies rise slightly.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with the bananas for a light and airy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and complements the banana flavor.
• ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate – For extra gooeyness and a rich chocolate taste.

For the Creamy Frosting (Optional, but highly recommended!):

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a smooth and creamy texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream – Adjusts consistency for a silky finish.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to the frosting.

Directions: How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Banana Bread Brownies with a rich, fudgy texture!

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mash the Bananas

   • In a large mixing bowl, mash 2 large ripe bananas until smooth. A few small lumps are fine, as they add texture.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

   • Add ½ cup melted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup brown sugar to the mashed bananas.
   • Stir until well combined.
   • Mix in 2 eggs (one at a time) and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together:
     • 1 cup all-purpose flour
     • ¼ cup cocoa powder
     • ½ teaspoon baking powder
     • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
     • ¼ teaspoon salt
     • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

5. Mix the Batter

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
   • Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies dense.
   • Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for extra gooeyness.

Step 2: Bake the Banana Bread Brownies

1. Pour & Spread the Batter

   • Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

2. Bake to Perfection

   • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
   • Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s ready!

3. Cool Completely

   • Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
   • This helps them set and develop the best texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Optional Frosting

1. Whisk the Butter and Sugar

   • In a small bowl, beat ¼ cup softened butter with 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth.

2. Add the Liquid Ingredients

   • Mix in 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until creamy.
   • If the frosting is too thick, add a little more milk (1 teaspoon at a time).

3. Spread & Set

   • Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top.
   • Let it set for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice the brownies into 12 squares and serve with a glass of milk, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream! 🍌🍫
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Tips for Making the Best Banana Bread Brownies

Follow these expert tips to ensure your Banana Bread Brownies turn out soft, fudgy, and full of flavor!

1. Use Ripe Bananas for Maximum Flavor 🍌

• The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter 🚫🥣

• Overmixing the batter can make the brownies dense and tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a soft, tender texture.

3. Adjust the Texture to Your Liking

• For a fudgier texture: Reduce the flour by 2 tablespoons and add an extra 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
• For a cakier texture: Add an extra ¼ teaspoon of baking powder to give the brownies more lift.

4. Enhance the Flavor with Add-Ins 🍫

• Stir in chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) for a crunchy contrast.
• Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
• Swirl in peanut butter or caramel for extra richness.

5. Check for Doneness Correctly

• Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the brownies are ready.
• If in doubt, slightly underbake them, as they will continue to set while cooling.

6. Let Them Cool Before Slicing ⏳

• Cutting into warm brownies can cause them to fall apart. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

7. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week for a firmer texture.
• Freeze for up to 3 months—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect combination of moist, flavorful banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies. With their soft texture, deep chocolate taste, and natural sweetness from ripe bananas, they make an irresistible treat for any occasion. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even a quick breakfast, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Now that you have this delicious and foolproof recipe, it’s time to give it a try! Bake a batch, enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience. If you make these banana bread brownies, let us know in the comments how they turned out—did you add any fun twists like nuts, caramel, or a swirl of peanut butter? We’d love to hear from you!