Banana Bread Brownies Recipe: A Perfect Fusion of Banana Bread and Brownie
Introduction
Have you ever wished for a treat that combines the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies? Well, today’s your lucky day! This Banana Bread Brownies recipe is a sweet hybrid that combines the best of both worlds. Imagine biting into a brownie, only to discover the familiar comfort of banana bread hidden inside—perfectly baked with a delightful banana flavor.
In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the Banana Bread Brownies recipe, including some tips to make it perfect. We’ll also dive into its health benefits, storage tips, and answer some common questions.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas | 2 large, mashed |
| All-purpose Flour | 1 ½ cups |
| Cocoa Powder | ¼ cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Brown Sugar | ¾ cup |
| Granulated Sugar | ¼ cup |
| Butter, melted | ½ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Milk (or buttermilk) | ¼ cup |
| Chocolate Chips (optional) | ½ cup |
Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 12 brownies
Recipe Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined. If you love a creamier texture, feel free to add milk (or buttermilk for a richer taste).
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in now for extra richness!
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The top should look slightly cracked, and the edges should be firm.
6. Cool & Serve
Allow the Banana Bread Brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- Banana ripeness: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more banana-flavored your brownies will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe!
- Butter vs. Oil: You can substitute the butter with vegetable oil if you prefer. Butter adds a richer taste, but oil makes the brownies slightly moister.
- Chocolate Chips: Optional, but highly recommended! It adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture to the brownies.
How to Serve
Serve these Banana Bread Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a breakfast treat, enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to any brunch spread!
Health Benefits
While brownies are often considered an indulgent treat, the addition of bananas adds some surprising health benefits. Bananas are a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure. They also contain vitamins like B6, which support brain function, and fiber, which helps digestion.
By incorporating banana into your brownie recipe, you’re adding a nutritious twist without sacrificing flavor!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for 1-2 hours or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Sodium | 85mg |
[cal_calc]
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture and flavor, but it’s still delicious!
2. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free. Just ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free, like the baking powder.
3. Can I make these brownies vegan?
Yes! To make these vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg), and use a dairy-free butter or oil.
4. How do I know when the brownies are done?
The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they might be overbaked, so keep an eye on them!
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter! Gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella on top before baking for an added flavor twist.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect way to use up overripe bananas and satisfy your sweet tooth at the same time. The rich flavor and moist texture make them a treat that everyone will love, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a brunch, or just as an afternoon snack, these brownies will never disappoint!
