If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy dessert, Banana Bread Brownies are about to become your new obsession! They blend everything you adore about tender banana bread with the richness of a brownie, creating a fudgy, flavorful bite that’s impossible to resist. Imagine the sweet perfume of ripe bananas, the warmth of cinnamon, and a hint of buttery decadence all in one square. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with silky frosting, these bars are pure comfort in every bite and guaranteed to vanish fast at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is hand-picked for maximum impact—no fillers, just the essentials that make Banana Bread Brownies so sensational. Simple to find and easy to combine, each one pulls its weight in flavor, texture, or color.
- Ripe bananas: The riper the better—think lots of brown spots—for maximum sweetness and flavor!
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings incredible richness and a soft, tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: This adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the banana flavor.
- Eggs: Two large eggs act as the glue that holds your batter together and create that perfectly moist texture.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings out all the cozy flavors.
- All-purpose flour: The base for your brownies, creating structure while maintaining softness.
- Baking powder: A little goes a long way to lift the brownies and keep them light.
- Salt: Just a pinch makes all the sweet notes sing.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a slight spice that loves bananas.
- Walnuts or chocolate chips (optional): For crunch or a burst of chocolatey goodness in every bite—yum!
- Frosting (optional): Butter, milk, brown sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla create a luscious, sweet finish you can drizzle or spread on top.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Pan & Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and either grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for effortless removal. That little step makes all the difference for easy slicing and a fuss-free cleanup!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your melted butter and sugar until the mixture looks glossy and smooth. Next, add the eggs, vanilla extract, and those lovely mashed bananas. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined—a few banana lumps are perfectly fine and actually add to the charm.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, gently whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures your brownies bake up evenly and have a touch of warmth in every bite.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to your banana base, stirring just until combined. If you’re jazzing things up with walnuts or chocolate chips, now is the time to fold them in. The batter should be thick but easy to spread.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), you’re good to go! Let the Banana Bread Brownies cool completely in the pan. Patience pays off here, as warm brownies can be tricky to frost or cut.
Step 6: Make the Optional Frosting
For that extra wow factor, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in milk and brown sugar, letting it bubble and thicken slightly—this is what gives the frosting its caramel kick. Remove from heat, let it cool for a few minutes, then whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until silky. Spread generously over your cooled brownies. Let the frosting set before slicing for picture-perfect bars!
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can be elegant, or you might add a handful of extra walnuts or mini chocolate chips for crunch and visual appeal. A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel also brings a swoon-worthy finish to each square of Banana Bread Brownies.
Side Dishes
Balance the sweetness with something light—think a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, a tangy dollop of Greek yogurt, or a handful of fresh berries. Hot coffee or cold milk are classic and comforting partners.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the brownies into mini triangles or stars for a fun party platter, or layer small cubes in a parfait glass with whipped cream and fruit. Serving Banana Bread Brownies warm with a scoop of ice cream melts hearts instantly, especially for special occasions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Banana Bread Brownies at peak freshness by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to three days. If you prefer them to last longer, the fridge is your friend—just let them return to room temp before serving for ultimate tenderness.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled brownies in a single layer (with parchment between them) in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their magic for up to three months. When a craving strikes, thaw in the fridge or on the counter for an easy, anytime treat.
Reheating
If you love that just-baked warmth, pop an individual square in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This works especially well if your brownies have been in the fridge or freezer—it reinvigorates all that gooey, banana-infused goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas in Banana Bread Brownies?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain off extra liquid before mashing and adding to your batter. This ensures your brownies aren’t too wet and bake up with the perfect consistency.
Can I make these Banana Bread Brownies gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it’s one designed for cup-for-cup substitution for the best results.
Is the frosting necessary?
Not at all! The brownies are plenty flavorful on their own, but the frosting adds an irresistibly sweet, caramel note. Try them both ways and see which you prefer.
Can I double the recipe?
You sure can! Just bake in a 9×13-inch pan and check for doneness at about the same bake time. Perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer for future cravings.
What else can I add to customize my Banana Bread Brownies?
Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like toasted pecans, shredded coconut, peanut butter chips, or even a swirl of Nutella. It’s a fun way to make the recipe your own, and they never disappoint!
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderful about sharing a pan of Banana Bread Brownies with family or friends—they’re just so warm, inviting, and universally loved. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, these bars are simple to make and impossible to mess up. Give them a try and watch them disappear—everyone’s going to ask for your secret!
Print
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the best of both worlds with these delicious Banana Bread Brownies. A delightful combination of moist banana bread and fudgy brownies topped with a sweet frosting.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Frosting (optional):
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, and mix until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually stir dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- Make frosting: For the frosting, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add milk and brown sugar, stir until sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla. Spread over cooled brownies and let set before slicing.
Notes
- Skip the frosting for a less-sweet, more banana bread-style treat.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
