Why Make This Recipe
Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on classic banana bread. These treats combine the flavors of moist, sweet bananas with rich chocolate goodness. They are easy to make, great for using overripe bananas, and perfect for a snack or dessert. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them all by yourself, these brownies are sure to please everyone, especially chocolate lovers.
The unique combination of banana and chocolate creates a wonderful texture that is both fudgy and cake-like. This recipe is a perfect way to satisfy a sweet tooth while also ensuring that bananas that might go to waste get used up. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners and can be made in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the brownies bake evenly.
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. You can use butter or cooking spray, so the brownies do not stick to the bottom.
Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, take the ripe bananas and mash them with a fork. Aim for a smooth texture. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your brownies will be!
Mix in the Butter: Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix them together thoroughly.
Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla: Stir in the sugar, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. Mix everything until it’s smooth and well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another smaller bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients add structure and leavening to your brownies.
Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined; do not over-mix. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
Chocolate Chips: If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this stage. These will add pockets of melted chocolate to your brownies.
Pour into Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Cool and Cut: Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies are delicious on their own but can be dressed up for special occasions. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great choice for afternoon snacks or dessert after dinner.
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
To keep your Banana Bread Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For even longer storage, freeze the brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a sealable bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Use Overripe Bananas: The best bananas for this recipe are overripe ones. They will be sweeter and add more moisture to your brownies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your brownies dense instead of fluffy.
Customize with Nuts: If you enjoy a crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter along with the chocolate chips.
Adjust Sugar: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar slightly. Remember that bananas also add natural sweetness.
Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
Variations
Nutty Banana Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Frosted Brownies: After the brownies have cooled, spread a layer of your favorite chocolate frosting on top for an indulgent treat.
Marble Brownies: For a pretty presentation, swirl some peanut butter or cream cheese through the batter before baking.
Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use a plant-based butter alternative. Make sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips if you add them.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Thaw them completely before mashing. They will add the same sweetness and moisture as fresh overripe bananas.
2. How can I tell if my brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, they are done. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, continue to bake for another few minutes.
3. Can I add other flavors to my brownies?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like cinnamon, espresso powder, or even peanut butter for a flavored twist. Just be sure to adjust the other ingredients slightly if necessary.
4. What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can replace it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour for a plain banana brownie, or you could try using carob powder for a different flavor.
5. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients. Use a larger baking pan and increase the baking time slightly. Just keep an eye on the brownies as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook.
By following this simple yet delicious recipe, you can enjoy warm, fudgy Banana Bread Brownies any time of the year. Happy baking!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on classic banana bread, these Banana Bread Brownies combine moist, sweet bananas with rich chocolate goodness for a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing it.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth.
- Mix in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in another bowl.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the banana mixture gradually until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious treat. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: banana bread, brownies, dessert, chocolate, easy baking