Banana Bread Brownies: 7 Steps to Heavenly Treats

Name: Banana Bread Brownies: 7 Steps to Heavenly Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2-3 medium bananas); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the first time I made these banana bread brownies! It was one of those rainy afternoons when I had a couple of overripe bananas sitting on my counter, just begging to be used. I was craving something chocolatey, and then it hit me—why not combine the moist, comforting flavors of banana bread with the rich decadence of brownies? The result was a match made in dessert heaven! These banana bread brownies are so wonderfully moist and chewy, and the deep chocolate flavor just sings with each bite.

Honestly, I can’t get enough of the way the flavors meld together. The bananas add a natural sweetness and a tender texture, while the cocoa powder gives it that intense chocolate kick we all crave. Trust me, if you haven’t tried this fusion yet, you’re in for a delightful treat! I’ve made these for everything from casual family dinners to holiday gatherings, and they never fail to impress. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and get baking!

banana bread brownies - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting these delightful banana bread brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2-3 medium bananas): Make sure they’re nice and spotty for maximum sweetness!
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Melting the butter allows it to blend seamlessly with the sugar and bananas, enhancing that rich flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar: This adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the chocolate.
2 large eggs: They help bind everything together and provide moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for that warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate and bananas!
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base for your brownies, giving them structure.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Use high-quality cocoa for a deep chocolate flavor; it’s the star of the show!
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: This will help your brownies rise just a bit.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional): For those who want an extra chocolatey experience, these are a delightful addition!

These ingredients blend together to create a rich, moist brownie that perfectly balances banana and chocolate. I promise, you’re going to love it!

How to Prepare Banana Bread Brownies

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get into the fun part—making these delicious banana bread brownies! Follow along with these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of sweet, chocolatey goodness in no time.

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out just right. While that’s heating up, grab a 9×9-inch baking pan and grease it well with butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial to prevent any sticky situations later on when you want to enjoy those fudgy treats. Trust me, you want them to slide right out!

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, let’s start by mixing the melted butter and granulated sugar together. Stir until it’s well blended and shiny—this is where the magic begins! Next, add in your mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract. Don’t rush this part; mix it thoroughly to ensure all those flavors meld together beautifully. The bananas should be fully integrated, giving you a luscious base for your brownies.

Mix Dry Ingredients

Now, grab another bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it helps to aerate the dry ingredients and ensures that everything is evenly distributed. You want those cocoa and flour particles to be friends before they meet the wet mixture, so whisk away until it’s all nicely combined!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. I like to do this in batches, folding it in gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just mix until everything is combined. You want to see a few flour streaks; that’s perfectly okay! Overmixing can lead to dense brownies, and we absolutely don’t want that.

Add Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If you’re feeling a bit indulgent (and who isn’t?), now’s the time to fold in those chocolate chips. They add an extra layer of deliciousness and a little surprise in each bite! Just sprinkle them in and gently fold them through the batter. You want them evenly distributed but don’t mix too fiercely—keep that fudgy texture intact!

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. A great way to check for doneness is to stick a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Remember, these brownies will continue to cook a bit even after you take them out, so don’t overbake!

Cooling and Serving

Once they’re baked to perfection, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set up a bit more before you try to transfer them. After that, carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, here’s my favorite part—serving! These brownies are delicious on their own, but if you really want to take it to the next level, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s pure bliss, I promise!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these banana bread brownies! First and foremost, the rich flavor is an absolute showstopper. The combination of sweet, ripe bananas and deep, chocolatey goodness creates a decadent treat that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Then there’s the texture—oh my goodness! These brownies are wonderfully moist and chewy, with that perfect fudgy interior that just melts in your mouth. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve taken a bite and felt pure happiness wash over me!

What I love most is their versatility. Whether you’re serving them warm out of the oven, pairing them with a scoop of ice cream, or enjoying them plain with a cup of coffee, these little squares of joy fit any occasion. They’re great for potlucks, cozy family dinners, or even just a sweet afternoon snack. Trust me, once you whip up a batch, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

So go ahead, treat yourself to this delightful fusion of banana bread and brownies—you won’t regret it!

Tips for Success

Getting those banana bread brownies just right can feel like a delicious accomplishment, and I’ve got a few pro tips to help you achieve brownie perfection!

Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! Look for ones with lots of brown spots. They’re sweeter and will give your brownies that moist, flavorful base. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Experiment with Cocoa Powders: If you want to take your brownies to the next level, try using different types of cocoa powder. Dark chocolate cocoa can add an intense flavor, while Dutch-processed cocoa gives a smoother taste. Play around and find your favorite!
Don’t Overmix: I can’t stress this enough! When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough brownies instead of that dreamy, fudgy texture we all love.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter! If it’s clean, they may be overbaked.
Storage Tips: These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them! Just wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months—perfect for a sweet treat later on!
Serve Warm: For that ultimate indulgent experience, serve your brownies warm straight from the oven or gently reheated. The chocolate chips (if you added them) will be melty, and oh-so-delicious!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for success. Enjoy every chocolatey, banana-filled bite of your creations!

Variations

One of the best things about these banana bread brownies is how easily you can customize them to fit your tastes or the occasion! Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

Nuts: If you love a little crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans. They add a fantastic texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and banana.
Different Chocolates: Experiment with chocolate! Try using milk chocolate chips for a sweeter treat, or dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavor. You can even mix them up! White chocolate chips add a lovely contrast and a touch of creaminess.
Spices: For a warm, cozy vibe, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. It elevates the flavor profile and gives your brownies a delightful twist!
Peanut Butter Swirl: Feeling indulgent? Swirl in some peanut butter or nut butter of your choice before baking for a creamy, nutty surprise in each bite. Just drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl gently with a knife.
Caramel Drizzle: For a touch of decadence, drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top once the brownies have cooled. This adds a beautiful gooey layer and an extra layer of sweetness!
Gluten-Free Option: If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This is a great way to make these brownies accessible to everyone!

Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ideas! The beauty of these banana bread brownies is you can truly make them your own. Get creative and enjoy the process—it’s all about what flavors make you happiest!

Nutritional Information

Now that you know how to whip up these delicious banana bread brownies, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you can expect per brownie, based on standard ingredients:

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: Approximately 180
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you decide to add in those optional chocolate chips or any variations. But it’s helpful to know what you’re working with, right? Enjoy your baking adventure while keeping these tasty brownies in mind as a sweet treat to share (or keep all to yourself!).

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas can actually enhance the sweetness and moisture of your brownies!

What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you’re out of cocoa powder, you can substitute it with carob powder for a different flavor profile, or you could try using unsweetened chocolate. Just melt it down and replace the cocoa and fat with the same weight of chocolate.

How do I know when the brownies are done?
Great question! Start checking around the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; you want it to come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit as they cool!

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These brownies store well. Just let them cool completely, then cover them tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for a week or frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for a future sweet craving!

Can I substitute the butter for oil?
Yes, you can substitute melted coconut oil or vegetable oil for the butter in equal amounts. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor and texture, but they’ll still be delicious!

What toppings do you recommend?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, but you could also top them with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an added flavor boost!

Can I add other fruits to the mix?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips are fantastic additions. Just remember to adjust the overall amount of dry ingredients if you’re adding in something that could change the batter’s consistency.

Is it necessary to let them cool before cutting?
Yes! I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting them cool helps them set up and makes cutting easier. Patience will reward you with cleaner slices and better texture!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.