If you’re on the hunt for a delectable treat that marries the classic flavors of bananas and chocolate, you’ve found it in these Banana Bread brownies. Perfect for dessert or as an indulgent snack, this recipe comes together with ease and will quickly become a family favorite.
In our family, baking these delicious treats is a cherished tradition, especially when the bananas on the counter are just too ripe. My grandmother used to make a version of these for us every Sunday, and the aroma filled our home, drawing everyone to the kitchen. Now, I’ve put my twist on her classic recipe by adding a rich, fudgy chocolate layer reminiscent of my childhood.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the best of both worlds, combining the sweet, plush texture of banana bread with the dense, chocolatey pleasure of brownies. It’s perfect for busy bakers since it uses simple pantry staples. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or just an afternoon treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
Ingredients Notes
The ingredients for these banana bread brownies are straightforward, but understanding each one can make a big difference. Choose ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and a silky texture. If you can’t find unsweetened cocoa powder, use a high-quality dark cocoa for a richer flavor. Be sure to use unsalted butter to control the salt content in your brownies. For a nutty twist, add walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch pan. This ensures even baking and easy removal of your brownies once they’re done.
Step 2
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture serves as the base flavor of your brownies.
Step 3
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This creates a fluffy batter by incorporating air.
Step 4
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your brownies tender.
Step 5
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. Let the brownies cool before cutting to ensure perfect squares.
Storage Options
Store these banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully; just wrap them individually and pop them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply let them defrost at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free butter substitute. If you’re out of bananas, try pumpkin puree for a fall twist. For added texture, fold in a handful of chocolate chips or nuts. Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut for added depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are incredibly versatile; serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy them with a cold glass of milk for a comforting snack. They’re perfect for brunch gatherings, or pack them as a sweet treat in lunchboxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. This will ensure that the brownies don’t become too wet.
What’s the best way to mash bananas? The easiest way to mash bananas is using a fork or potato masher. For a smoother texture, you can also use a food processor. Ensure there are no large chunks, as this could affect the final bake.
How can I tell when the brownies are done? The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. The edges will start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, which is another good indication.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, these banana bread brownies are a surefire hit. With their delightful combination of flavors and straightforward preparation, they’re bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed bananas about 2 large bananas
- 0.5 cup butter melted
- 0.25 cup buttermilk or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 0.75 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and eggs until well blended.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
