Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

These Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate mash-up of two classic desserts: rich, fudgy brownies and moist, banana-flavored bread. Packed with chocolatey goodness and a hint of banana sweetness, these brownies are topped with a creamy glaze for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.

Serves: 12-16

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, optional)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk (or heavy cream)
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Optional : Crushed walnuts or pecans for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Stir in the granulated sugar until fully combined.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Add the mashed bananas and mix until the batter is smooth and well blended.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in additional chocolate chips if desired.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).
3. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before adding the glaze.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies using a spoon or piping bag.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle crushed nuts or additional chocolate chips over the glaze for decoration, if desired.
2. Slice into squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

Tips for Success:

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
• Add-ins: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or white chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and almond milk for a vegan-friendly version.
• Freeze option: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information (per brownie, makes 16):

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Fat: ~9g

Enjoy these Banana Bread Brownies as a delightful fusion of banana bread and fudgy brownies. Their rich chocolate flavor and subtle banana sweetness make them a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion!