Banana Bread Brownies

Banana bread brownies are the ultimate mash-up of two beloved desserts, combining the moist, tender texture of banana bread with the fudgy richness of brownies. Each bite brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the decadence of chocolate.

This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for anyone looking to elevate classic banana bread into something extra indulgent. It’s an excellent way to use overripe bananas in a dessert that feels both familiar and exciting.

Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed as a snack, banana bread brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while impressing family and friends.

Ingredients List

– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.

Step 5: Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts if using. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 6: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve as-is or top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings

Serves 12

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 280
Carbs: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g

Storage Instructions

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. These brownies also freeze beautifully—wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Pairings/Suggestions

Banana bread brownies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee. For a decadent dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make great additions to dessert platters alongside cookies, fruit, or cakes.

Seasonal Relevance

These brownies are a great treat year-round but feel especially comforting in the fall and winter months when warm, rich desserts are most appreciated. They’re also an excellent way to use ripe bananas during summer and spring when fresh produce is plentiful.

Health Benefits

Bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, allowing you to use less added fat. They’re rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, contributing to heart and digestive health. Walnuts add healthy fats and protein, while dark cocoa powder offers antioxidants. While these brownies are indulgent, small adjustments like reducing sugar or swapping whole wheat flour can boost their nutritional value.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Moist, rich, and chocolatey	Higher in sugar and calories than plain banana bread
Creative twist on two classics	Texture may vary if bananas are underripe
Easy to make with pantry staples	Needs ripe bananas for best flavor
Freezes well for later enjoyment	Nuts may be an allergen for some

Conclusion

Banana bread brownies are the perfect marriage of comfort and indulgence, bringing together the moist sweetness of bananas and the rich flavor of chocolate. They’re simple to make, versatile, and a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.

Whether you’re baking for a special dessert, a casual snack, or to use up ripe bananas, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try these fudgy, flavorful brownies, you’ll find yourself coming back to them again and again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these brownies without cocoa powder?
Yes, though they’ll taste more like banana cake than brownies. Cocoa powder is what gives them their signature flavor.

Q2: How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

Q3: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely. Reducing sugar by up to ¼ cup won’t affect texture too much, though the brownies will be less sweet.