Banana Bread Brownies : The Ultimate Dessert for Banana Lovers

If you’re a fan of both banana bread and brownies, then Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect dessert for you! These delightful treats combine the best of both worlds: the soft, moist texture of banana bread and the rich, chewy goodness of brownies. They’re incredibly easy to make, bursting with banana flavor, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Whether you’re looking for a quick banana dessert recipe, trying to use up overripe bananas, or simply craving a unique treat, Banana Bread Brownies will quickly become your go-to recipe. The combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistible, and they are a great way to turn a traditional banana bread recipe into something even more exciting.

Looking for other banana bread-inspired recipes? Try our Banana Bread Cobbler for another twist on your favorite banana dessert.

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What Makes Banana Bread Brownies So Irresistible?

Banana Bread Brownies are truly a treat like no other. Here’s what makes them so special:

• The Best of Both Worlds: This recipe combines the moist, dense texture of banana bread with the rich, chewy consistency of brownies. It’s like getting two desserts in one!
• Banana Flavor: The bananas infuse these brownies with a natural sweetness that makes them incredibly flavorful without being overly sugary.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of butter and bananas creates a fudgy, cake-like texture that holds up well while still being soft and moist.
• Easy to Make: Unlike traditional banana bread that requires a bit more time and effort, Banana Bread Brownies are easy to mix together, making them perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time.
• Customizable: Whether you like to add chocolate chips, swirl in peanut butter, or top them with a crunchy crumb topping, these brownies are easy to customize.

Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies

Making Banana Bread Brownies is simple, and you only need a few common ingredients to make these delightful treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Brownie Base:

• 2 ripe bananas (the riper, the better for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder (for that rich brownie flavor)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra indulgence)

For the Optional Crumb Topping (to make it more like a cobbler):

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

These ingredients come together to create a decadent, flavorful dessert that’s guaranteed to be a hit with your family or guests.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Bread Brownies

Making Banana Bread Brownies is incredibly easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, leaving just a few small lumps for texture. If your bananas are extra ripe, they should mash easily with a fork or potato masher.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies dense.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)

Fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them. This step adds an extra layer of richness and gooeyness to your brownies.

Step 6: Prepare the Crumb Topping (Optional)

For an added touch of sweetness and texture, you can make a crumb topping. In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the topping forms small crumbs. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the brownie batter.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The brownies should be set but still soft in the center.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, and store any leftovers in an airtight container.

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How to Customize Your Banana Bread Brownies

One of the best things about Banana Bread Brownies is how customizable they are. Here are some ways you can personalize the recipe:

• Add nuts: If you love a bit of crunch, try adding walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter for a nutty contrast to the soft, sweet banana and brownie base.
• Peanut butter swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the bananas and chocolate.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free. You can also use almond flour for a slightly different texture.
• Add a cheesecake layer: For a decadent treat, add a layer of cream cheese and sugar between the brownie layers, creating a cheesecake banana bread crumb cake variation.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread Brownies

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the brownies will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because they’ll naturally bring out more banana flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense brownies. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
• Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so check the brownies around the 30-minute mark. If a toothpick comes out clean, they’re ready! If not, check every few minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Let them cool: Allow the brownies to cool before cutting. They’ll be easier to slice and hold their shape better.

Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Brownies

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them even further with a few serving ideas:

• Top with ice cream: Serve warm banana bread brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chocolate mousse for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzle with caramel: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness and a rich flavor contrast.
• Whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a light, refreshing finish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Banana Bread Brownies

Storage:
Store any leftover Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Reheating:
To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!

Why Banana Bread Brownies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Banana Bread Brownies are versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or as a dessert. They’re perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or even just a treat to enjoy with coffee in the afternoon. Their combination of familiar flavors makes them a hit with both kids and adults, and the ease of preparation makes them a go-to option for any busy baker.

These brownies are not only a great way to use overripe bananas, but they also allow you to get creative with ingredients and toppings, making them perfect for various occasions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Banana Bread Brownies

• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the brownies while they bake to avoid drying them out. They should be soft in the center when fully cooked.
• Not mashing the bananas well enough: If the bananas aren’t mashed thoroughly, they may not fully blend into the batter, which can affect the texture of the brownies.
• Not letting them cool before cutting: Letting the brownies cool slightly makes them easier to slice, ensuring clean, even pieces.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Bread Brownies

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas, but make sure to thaw and drain them before mashing to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the brownie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.

Can I freeze Banana Bread Brownies?
Yes, you can freeze these brownies! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion + Call to Action

Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect combination of two beloved treats: banana bread and brownies. They’re moist, flavorful, and easy to make, with endless opportunities for customization. Whether you’re using ripe bananas or craving a new way to enjoy a classic dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

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