You won't believe it, but just the other day, I stumbled upon a recipe that perfectly blends two of your favorite treats—banana bread and brownies. Imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you whip up this decadent dessert. It's simple to make and so satisfying that you'll want to share it with everyone. Curious about how to bring this delicious idea to life? Let's explore the details together.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Combine 3 mashed ripe bananas with melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla for the base mixture.
- Mix together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl before combining with the wet ingredients.
- Bake in a greased 9×9-inch pan at 350°F (175°C) for a deliciously moist brownie texture.
- Allow brownies to sit for a day to enhance flavor and store in an airtight container for freshness.
- Serve warm with ice cream or dust with powdered sugar for a delightful treat.
How To Make It – Recipe

Homemade banana bread brownies are a delightful fusion of two classic treats, bringing together the moist richness of banana bread with the fudgy decadence of brownies. This recipe is perfect for those ripe bananas sitting on your counter that need to be used up. Not only are these brownies easy to make, but they also offer a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while incorporating the wholesome goodness of bananas.
To create these delicious brownies, you'll start by mashing ripe bananas and combining them with other simple ingredients to achieve a delightful batter. The result is a wonderfully soft, chocolatey dessert that's sure to please everyone in your family. Banana bread brownies can be a great way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these banana bread brownies are a delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 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)
To prepare the brownies, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and mashed bananas until smooth.
Add in the brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing well. Next, incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.
If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for added richness. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
When making banana bread brownies, consider using overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. You can also experiment by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for added texture and taste.
Additionally, if you prefer a richer brownie, try adding a bit more cocoa powder or using dark chocolate chips. Enjoy the process and have fun with your variations!
Substitution Suggestions
If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, don't worry—there are plenty of substitutions that can work just as well in your banana bread brownies.
For those ripe bananas, consider using applesauce or pureed pumpkin as delicious banana alternatives. They'll keep your brownies moist and flavorful.
If you need gluten substitutes, swap out all-purpose flour for almond or oat flour for a nutty twist. You could even try a gluten-free blend to maintain that perfect texture.
Additionally, incorporating the right ingredients can enhance the overall flavor profile of your brownies.
With these simple swaps, you'll create scrumptious brownies that fit your needs without sacrificing taste or quality. Enjoy experimenting!
Decorating Ideas
While your banana bread brownies are baking to perfection, consider how you'll bring them to life with some creative decorations.
You could sprinkle them with chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for an added crunch. Drizzle a warm chocolate or caramel sauce on top for a decadent touch.
For festive decorations, try adding colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to make them pop. If you're feeling adventurous, layer fresh banana slices and whipped cream for a delightful finish. Additionally, incorporating 3 ingredient banana brownies into your recipe can simplify the process and enhance the flavor.
These topping options won't only enhance the flavor but also make your brownies visually stunning, perfect for any occasion or gathering!
Serving Suggestions
As your banana bread brownies cool and you admire their delightful decorations, it's the perfect time to think about how to serve them.
Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious contrast. You could also drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top for an indulgent twist.
If you're feeling adventurous, explore banana bread variations by adding nuts or caramel to your brownies, enhancing their texture and flavor.
Finally, don't forget the brownie toppings—sprinkle some sea salt or shredded coconut for an unexpected crunch.
Additionally, incorporating banana bread variations can make your brownies even more exciting and unique.
These simple touches elevate your dessert experience to new heights!
Make-Ahead and Storage
Even though you might be tempted to enjoy your banana bread brownies right away, making them ahead of time can actually enhance their flavor and texture.
When you let them sit for a day, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a richer, more indulgent treat. This is perfect for your meal prep; just whip up a batch on the weekend, and savor the rewards throughout the week. Decadent banana brownies can also be enjoyed warm, but allowing them to cool and sit overnight will elevate your taste experience.
Store them in an airtight container, and you'll find they become even more delectable as time passes.
Trust me, waiting just a bit will take your banana bread brownies to the next level!
How to Store Leftovers
After you've savored your banana bread brownies, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers.
To guarantee proper leftover storage, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This keeps them moist and flavorful, extending their shelf life.
For peak brownie preservation, store them in the fridge if you plan to enjoy them within a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just pop them in a freezer-safe container, and they'll be ready for a sweet treat whenever you crave that banana bread goodness! Healthy Banana Bread Brownies can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing their delightful taste.
Enjoy those leftovers!
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
Indulging in a rich banana bread brownie not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also comes with some intriguing nutrition facts. Each serving packs around 150 calories, making it a delightful treat without overwhelming your diet.
Bananas are a star ingredient, bringing fantastic benefits like potassium and vitamin C, which support heart health and boost immunity. You'll also find fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you full longer. Additionally, the flourless brownie option offers a delicious alternative for those seeking gluten-free desserts.
Final Thoughts
As you savor each bite of your homemade banana bread brownies, you might realize that this delightful dessert isn't just about satisfying your cravings; it's also an experience that blends comfort and nutrition.
Experimenting with recipe variations can elevate your baking game—try adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch. Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the brownies.
Remember, a few baking tips can make a world of difference: guarantee your ingredients are at room temperature and don't overmix the batter.
Each slice promises a moist, flavorful treat. So, enjoy the process, share with friends, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Happy baking!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use frozen bananas! They add sweetness and moisture. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for a quick fix. Enjoy the benefits of easily ripe bananas in your baking!
How Do I Know When the Brownies Are Fully Baked?
To know when the brownies are fully baked, use a toothpick for a texture check. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you're golden! Remember, they'll continue baking slightly after you remove them.
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips to the Batter?
Absolutely, you can add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter! It'll elevate your brownies to legendary status. Consider nut substitutions for flavor variations, enhancing that delicious, gooey goodness you're craving. Go for it!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegan Diets?
Absolutely, you can make it vegan! Just swap out regular ingredients for vegan substitutions like almond milk or coconut oil instead of butter. It'll taste just as delicious with those dairy alternatives. Enjoy your baking adventure!
What Type of Bananas Work Best for Banana Bread Brownies?
When you're baking, think of ripe bananas as golden treasures. Varieties like Cavendish or red bananas work best, bringing sweetness and moisture that dance in harmony, creating a rich, delightful flavor in your brownies.