Can you believe that two of life’s greatest comforts—moist banana bread and rich chocolate brownies—can join forces in one incredible treat? That’s exactly what I discovered when crafting my Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies. These delightful squares combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a dense, fudgy chocolate base, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet satisfying. Not only are these Banana Bread Brownies an easy way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, but they also offer a fantastic gluten-free option for those with dietary preferences. Perfect as a sweet afternoon snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert, they’re sure to win the hearts of family and friends alike. Curious about how to make these heavenly bites at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Banana Bread Brownies a Must-Try?
Indulgent flavor: These Banana Bread Brownies blend the sweet, comforting essence of banana bread with the decadence of brownies, creating a treat that’s absolutely irresistible.
Easy to make: You’ll love how straightforward the recipe is, perfect for home cooks looking to whip up something delicious without complications.
Versatile options: With simple ingredient swaps, you can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets or cater to personal preferences.
Stylish presentation: Serve these brownies warm with ice cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow your guests.
Perfect for snacking: These fudgy delights are ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth between meals and make for a delightful after-school snack.
For more indulgent variations, try my Hawaiian Banana Bread or the refreshing Banana Pudding Tiramisu.
Banana Bread Brownie Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Ripe Bananas – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; opt for very ripe, speckled bananas for the best flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies and helps create structure; no substitutions necessary.
• Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and deeper flavor through caramelization; choose light or dark brown based on preference.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and is key for a fudgy texture; can be swapped with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients and provides leavening; consider flaxseed meal as a vegan substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; no substitutions necessary.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides stability; for gluten-free Banana Bread Brownies, substitute with a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and cornstarch.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Imparts the essential chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a richer taste.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; no substitutions necessary.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; feel free to use sea salt or kosher salt.
• Chocolate Chips – Optional for extra chocolate bursts; can substitute with white chocolate or peanut butter chips if desired.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper, which will ensure easy removal of your fudgy Banana Bread Brownies once baked.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Aim for a creamy texture with minimal lumps, as this will incorporate well into the batter, adding natural sweetness and moisture to your Banana Bread Brownies.
Step 3: Combine Sugars and Butter
Next, stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter to the mashed bananas. Mix the ingredients until everything is well combined and creamy, which will enhance the fudgy texture of the brownies and infuse them with rich flavor.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, whisking until fully incorporated. The eggs will help bind the ingredients and add moisture, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of your Banana Bread Brownies, making them deliciously aromatic.
Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the baking soda and cocoa, ensuring your brownies rise properly and are rich in chocolatey flavor without any clumps.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture using a rubber spatula. Gently combine until just mixed to avoid overmixing, which can make your banana brownies dense. You want a thick, cohesive batter that still holds moisture.
Step 7: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
If desired, gently fold in chocolate chips at this stage for an extra chocolatey bite. Mix them through the batter lightly, just enough to distribute them without breaking them apart, enhancing the fudgy nature of the Banana Bread Brownies.
Step 8: Pour and Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. The surface should be smooth and level, allowing for even baking and a nice, consistent texture in your final banana brownie creation.
Step 9: Bake the Brownies
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them: they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with some moist crumbs, signaling your fudgy Banana Bread Brownies are perfectly baked.
Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, helping them set while allowing the residual heat to finish the cooking process for a soft, gooey center.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Brownies
Perfect Bananas: Use very ripe, speckled bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Avoid underripe bananas, as they won’t provide the same flavor.
Mix Wisely: Be gentle when folding the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Overmixing can lead to dense Banana Bread Brownies instead of light, fudgy treats.
Chocolate Choice: Feel free to substitute chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips for different flavor experiences, but avoid skipping them entirely for that extra chocolate burst.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking. A toothpick should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs to ensure the right fudgy texture.
Cooling Matters: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly, giving you clean edges and a gooey center.
Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, wrapping individually for easy snacking.
Banana Bread Brownies: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Banana Bread Brownies—there are endless ways to customize these treats to suit your preferences!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and cornstarch for a delicious gluten-free version.
Dairy-Free: Swap the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a totally dairy-free brownie that still packs a flavorful punch.
Vegan: Replace eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a delightful vegan treat.
Nutty Crunch: Add a quarter cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for an irresistible crunch and added richness that compliments the brownies perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile, adding warmth and a hint of spice that enhances the classic banana taste.
Chocolate Swirl: Mix in dollops of peanut butter or chocolate spread before baking for a creamy, decadent swirl that elevates the fudginess of your brownies.
Fruity Twist: Include freeze-dried strawberries or shredded coconut for a fruity burst and chewy texture that leaves everyone wanting more.
For a different take on banana treats, consider trying my Hawaiian Banana Bread or make a heavenly Chocolate Covered Banana for a fun dessert surprise!
What to Serve with Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies?
Indulging in rich, fudgy goodness opens up a world of delicious pairing possibilities that can elevate your dessert game.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic companion adds a delightful contrast, melting into the warm brownies to create a soothing, creamy experience.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream enhances the brownies’ richness while offering a light, fluffy texture that balances the fudge.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling extra melted chocolate on top provides a decadent finish, amplifying the treat’s chocolaty flavor while adding an appealing look.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries such as raspberries or strawberries counterbalance the sweetness of the brownies, bringing freshness that excites the palate.
Peanut Butter Glaze: A smear of creamy peanut butter adds an irresistible nutty contrast, complementing every chocolatey bite and infusing it with heartiness.
Nutty Side Car: Pair your brownies with a handful of crunchy walnuts or pecans. Their texture offers a perfect contrast to the soft brownie and enhances the nutty notes.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the rich flavors, creating a cozy, comforting experience that’s perfect for after dinner or a midday pick-me-up.
Mint Tea: For a refreshing finish, serve with a soothing mint tea that cuts through the sweetness, leaving you feeling refreshed after each decadent bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your brownies creates a luxurious dimension of sweetness, reminding you of the colors and flavors of fall.
Chocolate Milkshake: For an extra indulgent treat, enjoy these brownies with a rich chocolate milkshake, transporting you to dessert nirvana.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Brownies
Room Temperature: Store leftover Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the brownies for up to a week. Just ensure they are covered tightly to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. These delicious brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw frozen brownies in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds to restore their warmth and softness.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Brownies are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together, then refrigerating it in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to let the batter come to room temperature before pouring it into the baking pan for the best texture. You can also mash the ripe bananas and pick your other ingredients up to 3 days ahead, ensuring they’re ready for seamless assembly. Baking them fresh when you need a sweet treat keeps them just as delicious and fudgy as the day they were made!
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best results, use very ripe, speckled bananas. The more spots, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be. Overripe bananas bring out the natural sweetness and moisture, making your Banana Bread Brownies truly irresistible.
How should I store my Banana Bread Brownies?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re covered tightly to maintain their fudgy texture and prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Brownies? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze them! Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and then reheat them in the microwave for about 15 seconds for that warm, fudgy goodness.
What can I do if my brownie batter is too thick or too thin?
If your batter seems too thick, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up. Alternatively, if it’s too thin, you can add a bit more flour—start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Just remember to mix gently to maintain the fudge-like texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and cornstarch. Additionally, if you or your guests have dietary restrictions, consider using coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option and flaxseed meal in place of eggs for a vegan version.
How long should I bake my Banana Bread Brownies for the perfect texture?
You should bake your brownies for about 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them and do the toothpick test—insert it in the center, and it should come out mostly clean with some moist crumbs for that perfect fudgy texture!
Decadent Banana Bread Brownies for Your Sweet Tooth Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until mostly smooth.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter until well combined and creamy.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, combining until just mixed.
- Fold in the chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes, checking with a toothpick inserted in the center.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.