If you’re craving a delightful spin on traditional banana bread, these Easy Banana Bread Brownies make an ideal indulgence. Combining the moist, sweet flavor of banana bread with the fudgy texture of brownies, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to whip up. Whether you’ve got overripe bananas sitting on your counter or you’re just craving something indulgent, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
Adaptable: Great for breakfast, a sweet dessert, or a midday pick-me-up.
Kid-Friendly: A hit with little ones and adults alike.
Uses Overripe Bananas: A great way to avoid food waste.
Irresistible Texture: Soft, moist, and slightly chewy all at once.
Ingredients :
3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chocolate chips (optional, but recommended!)
Preparation Time :
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Method :
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get an 8×8-inch baking pan ready by greasing it or adding parchment paper.
Blend Wet Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, mix the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until silky smooth.
Add Dry Components: Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Combine gently until just mixed—don’t overdo it!
Mix in Chocolate Chips: If desired, fold in chocolate chips for a touch of richness.
Bake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Cool and Slice: Allow the brownies to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then move them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and savor!
Storage and Serving Suggestions :
Storage: Keep your Easy Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or chill them in the fridge for up to 7 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months—just wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
Serving: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or simply enjoy them plain with a cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Squares):
Calories: 210 kcal
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Note: Values are approximate and may vary with substitutions or portion size.
Variations & Substitutions :
Nutty Variation: Toss in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crispness.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Less Sugar: Reduce sugar to ½ cup if you prefer a less sweet treat.
No Cocoa: Omit the cocoa powder and increase flour to 1 ¼ cups for a blondie version.
Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and plant-based butter.
Additional Tips :
Use very ripe bananas (the spottier, the better!) for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Don’t overbake—slightly undercooking keeps them fudgy rather than cakey.
Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan if you’re feeding a crowd.
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
FAQ :
1- Can I make Easy Banana Bread Brownies without chocolate chips?
Yes! They’re still delicious without them, or you can substitute with nuts or dried fruit.
2- How do I know when my Easy Banana Bread Brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready.
3- Can I freeze Easy Banana Bread Brownies?
Of course! For up to two months, freeze them tightly sealed. Before eating, let them to defrost at room temperature.
4- What’s the best way to mash bananas for this recipe?
A fork works fine, or use a potato masher for a smoother consistency.
Conclusion :
These Easy Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate fusion of two beloved treats, delivering a rich, moist bite every time. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and endlessly adaptable. Whip up a batch today and watch them disappear—perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Happy baking!