Banana Bread Brownies: A Sweet Twist Every Banana Lover Craves
There’s something so comforting about the aroma of ripe bananas wafting through the kitchen, especially as we transition into the cozier months of the year. Whether it’s the first hint of fall in the air or a chilly winter afternoon, these Banana Bread Brownies conjure memories of warm gatherings and sweet indulgence. Imagine biting into a soft, gooey brownie that melds the delightful taste of banana bread with rich chocolatey goodness. It’s an experience that every banana lover craves, and I’m here to share this delightful recipe with you!
These Banana Bread Brownies are perfect for those who want to whisk something warm and inviting into their kitchen without spending hours. It’s an easy weeknight dessert that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle.
- Family-friendly; even the pickiest eaters will love these cozy treats.
- A unique blend of traditional banana bread and rich brownies—what’s not to love?
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.
- Creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your whole home with warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Banana Bread Brownies: A Sweet Twist Every Banana Lover Craves
To whip up a batch of these irresistible Banana Bread Brownies, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 3 medium Ripe Bananas (Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.)
- 1/2 cup Melted Butter (Enhances richness; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the brownies and contributes to the perfect texture.)
- 2 large Eggs (Provides structure and helps bind everything together.)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds depth to the overall flavor profile.)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Forms the base structure for the brownies.)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Acts as a leavening agent.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances flavors and brings out sweetness.)
- 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Infuses chocolate richness.)
- 1/4 cup Milk (Incorporates moisture; substitute with almond milk for a lactose-free option.)
- 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Optional: add dark or white chocolate.)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Introduces a delightful caramel-like flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Enhances the banana flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness when melted on top before baking.)
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies: A Sweet Twist Every Banana Lover Craves
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your brownies will be!
Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter and brown sugar to the mashed bananas, stirring until well combined. Then, add in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; don’t overmix!
Incorporate Chocolate Chips: If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now for that extra creamy indulgence.
Prepare for Baking: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Drizzle the two tablespoons of melted butter over the top for a rich finish.
Bake: Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy warm and watch them disappear!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Nutty Banana Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist that enhances the texture.
- Tropical Influences: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that pairs wonderfully with banana and chocolate.
- Double Chocolate Dream: Swap out 1/4 cup of flour for an additional 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Zesty Orange Infusion: Add the zest of one orange to the batter for a bright, citrusy punch that elevates the banana flavor.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Magic: These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute coconut oil for butter and almond milk for regular milk to make them dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Slicing Tip: For perfectly clean cuts, wait until the brownies have cooled completely, or use a plastic knife for easier slicing through the chocolate chips.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Carbs: 30g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead? Yes! These brownies can be made a day in advance and they actually taste better after a night in the fridge.
Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour or different types of sugars.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
How long does it last? When stored properly, these brownies can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any season. Indulging in the sweet aroma and rich flavor will create lasting memories around your table. So, save this Banana Bread Brownies: A Sweet Twist Every Banana Lover Craves to your dessert board, and you’ll have a go-to recipe ready for any cozy occasion!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful fusion of banana bread and rich brownies that every banana lover craves. Quick to make and perfect for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 medium Ripe Bananas
- 1/2 cup Melted Butter
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1 cup Chocolate Chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons Butter (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add melted butter and brown sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well. Then stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- If using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
These brownies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or a week in the refrigerator. Adjust ingredients for dietary preferences as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: banana bread, brownies, dessert, baking, comfort food