Banana Bread Brownies

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There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of bananas and chocolate. The rich, fudgy texture of brownies paired with the moist, caramelized sweetness of banana bread creates a dessert that’s truly the best of both worlds. I love how these Banana Bread Brownies offer the comforting flavors of classic banana bread but with an indulgent brownie twist.

What makes this recipe even more special is the contrast of flavors and textures. The deep, chocolatey brownie base is balanced by the light, buttery banana-infused layer, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re a fan of brownies or banana bread, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love These Banana Bread Brownies

• Best of Both Worlds – Enjoy the classic flavors of banana bread with the decadence of a brownie in one treat.
• Perfectly Moist & Fudgy – The combination of ripe bananas and rich chocolate ensures a soft, dense texture.
• Easy to Make – No fancy techniques required! Just mix, layer, and bake.
• Great Way to Use Overripe Bananas – Instead of making another plain banana bread, turn those ripe bananas into a chocolatey delight.
• Irresistible Glaze – A simple yet luscious glaze on top enhances the flavors and adds a perfect finishing touch.

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What Kind of Bananas Work Best for Banana Bread Brownies?

The best bananas for these brownies are overripe bananas—the ones with brown spots or even fully browned peels. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Overripe bananas also have a softer texture, which blends beautifully into the batter, ensuring a moist and tender bite. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, you can speed up the process by baking them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes until the peels turn black.

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Options for Substitutions

1. Flour Alternatives

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or oat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

2. Sweeteners

Swap white sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version. Honey also works but will slightly alter the taste.

3. Butter vs. Oil

While butter adds richness, you can replace it with coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option. Greek yogurt can also be used for a lower-fat alternative.

4. Egg Substitutes

For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg). Mashed bananas can also work but may make the brownies even softer.

5. Chocolate Options

Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips can be added for extra indulgence. If you prefer a deeper cocoa flavor, use unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chunks.

6. Extra Mix-Ins

For added crunch, throw in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds. If you love a hint of spice, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the banana flavor beautifully.

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Ingredients for These Banana Bread Brownies

Ripe Bananas

The star of the recipe! Bananas add natural sweetness, moisture, and a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. The riper the bananas, the better.

All-Purpose Flour

Gives the brownies structure while keeping them soft and tender. If you want a gluten-free version, you can substitute with almond or oat flour.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder

Adds deep, chocolatey richness to the brownie layer, making it fudgy and indulgent.

Granulated Sugar

Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the bananas. You can use coconut sugar or brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like taste.

Butter

Creates a rich, buttery texture in the brownies. You can swap it for coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free version.

Eggs

Help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the soft yet firm texture of the brownies. A flax egg can be used as a vegan substitute.

Vanilla Extract

Enhances both the chocolate and banana flavors, adding warmth and depth to every bite.

Baking Powder

A leavening agent that helps the banana bread layer rise slightly, creating a soft and fluffy texture.

Salt

A small pinch brings out the flavors of the chocolate and bananas, preventing the brownies from tasting overly sweet.

Chocolate Chips

Optional but highly recommended! Melty chocolate pockets throughout the brownies make them even more indulgent. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips.

Powdered Sugar & Milk (for the Glaze)

A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk gives the brownies a beautiful, sweet finish. You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

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Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the brownies after baking.

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Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. Then, sift in the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until the mixture is thick and glossy. Set this aside.

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Step 3: Make the Banana Bread Batter

In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Mix in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the banana layer soft and tender.

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Step 4: Layer the Batters

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Next, add all of the banana bread batter on top. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the top and use a knife to swirl it lightly, creating a marbled effect.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the brownies to stay fudgy.

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Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

While the brownies cool, whisk together powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies for a sweet finishing touch.

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Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. Serve and enjoy the perfect blend of banana bread and brownies in every bite!

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How Long to Cook the Banana Bread Brownies

The ideal baking time for Banana Bread Brownies is 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Since this recipe has two layers—brownie and banana bread—you want to ensure both cook evenly without drying out. The best way to check for doneness is by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter), they’re ready!

If you prefer extra fudgy brownies, bake for 30 minutes and let them set while cooling. For a more cake-like texture, bake closer to 35 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Brownies

1. Use Overripe Bananas

The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Brown, spotty bananas are perfect!

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing can make the banana bread layer dense instead of soft and fluffy. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

3. Layer Evenly for the Best Texture

Spreading the batters evenly in the pan ensures each bite has the perfect balance of brownie and banana bread.

4. Swirl, Don’t Overmix

If you’re swirling the batters, use a knife or toothpick to gently create a marbled effect without fully blending the layers.

5. Let Them Cool Completely

Cutting into warm brownies can make them fall apart. Let them cool for at least 30 minutes for clean slices.

6. Add Chocolate Chips for Extra Indulgence

Mix in or sprinkle chocolate chips over the brownie layer before baking for melty chocolate goodness.

7. Try a Caramel or Peanut Butter Drizzle

Instead of a simple glaze, drizzle warm caramel or peanut butter over the brownies for an extra treat.

8. Store Properly for Maximum Freshness

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Using Under-ripe Bananas

Bananas that aren’t ripe enough won’t add the right level of sweetness or moisture. Always use bananas with brown spots for the best results.

2. Overbaking the Brownies

Since brownies continue to set while cooling, baking them too long will make them dry instead of fudgy. Take them out when a toothpick has a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.

3. Overmixing the Banana Bread Batter

Mixing the banana layer too much can lead to a tough, dense texture instead of a light and soft crumb. Stir gently and stop once the ingredients are combined.

4. Skipping the Swirling Step

If you want a marbled effect, don’t forget to swirl the brownie and banana layers slightly. This step ensures every bite has a balanced mix of both flavors.

5. Not Lining or Greasing the Pan

For easy removal, always grease the pan or use parchment paper. Otherwise, your brownies might stick to the bottom and sides.

6. Cutting Too Soon

Warm brownies are super soft and may fall apart if sliced too soon. Let them cool completely before cutting for neat, even squares.

7. Using Too Much Flour

Accidentally adding extra flour can make the banana bread layer dry. Always measure correctly using the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag.

8. Skipping the Glaze or Toppings

While optional, the glaze adds a delicious finishing touch. You can also experiment with caramel drizzle, peanut butter, or even a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flavor.

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What to Serve With Banana Bread Brownies?

1. A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

The creamy, cool contrast of vanilla ice cream makes these warm brownies even more indulgent.

2. Fresh Whipped Cream

Light, airy whipped cream balances the richness of the brownies perfectly.

3. A Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

A warm caramel drizzle over the brownies takes the flavor to the next level.

4. Peanut Butter or Nut Butter

Spread a thin layer of peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty, salty contrast.

5. A Hot Cup of Coffee or Espresso

The bold, bitter notes of coffee complement the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.

6. A Glass of Cold Milk

Classic and comforting—milk enhances the fudgy texture and chocolatey flavor.

7. Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing, tart contrast to the rich brownies.

8. A Sprinkle of Sea Salt

A light dusting of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness and makes the chocolate flavor pop.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

If you plan to enjoy your Banana Bread Brownies within 2–3 days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness.

Refrigeration

For longer storage, place the brownies in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Chilling them helps retain moisture and keeps them from drying out. Before serving, you can bring them to room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey texture.

Freezing Instructions

Want to save them for later? These brownies freeze beautifully!

• Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds for a warm treat.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

• Calories: ~220
• Carbohydrates: ~32g
• Protein: ~3g
• Fat: ~10g
• Saturated Fat: ~5g
• Sugar: ~20g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sodium: ~80mg

For a healthier version, you can reduce sugar, use whole wheat or almond flour, or swap butter for Greek yogurt.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Banana Bread Brownies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or use unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg).

2. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free 1:1 baking flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

3. How can I make these brownies even fudgier?

For extra fudgy brownies, reduce the baking time by 2–3 minutes and let them cool completely before slicing. You can also add an extra egg yolk for a richer texture.

4. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a great crunch. Stir them into the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.

5. What if my bananas aren’t ripe enough?

If your bananas aren’t ripe, bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until the peels turn black. Let them cool before using.

6. Can I skip the glaze?

Of course! The glaze adds a sweet finishing touch, but you can enjoy these brownies as-is or dust them with powdered sugar instead.

7. How do I get clean slices when cutting the brownies?

For neat slices, let the brownies cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfect squares.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may increase by 5–10 minutes, so check with a toothpick.

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Conclusion

Banana Bread Brownies bring together the best of banana bread and brownies in one irresistible treat. They’re moist, chocolatey, and perfectly sweet, making them a great way to use overripe bananas. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a glaze, or topped with ice cream, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, with easy storage and substitution options, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

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