If you love the comforting warmth of banana bread and the fudgy indulgence of brownies, then you’re about to discover a match made in dessert heaven with this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe. This treats you to moist, banana-infused layers that melt in your mouth, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that takes each bite to the next level. It’s a delightful way to use ripe bananas while satisfying your chocolate cravings with a twist that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to nailing this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe. Each one plays an essential role, bringing the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that irresistible moistness that makes these brownies so special.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Creates a rich, tender crumb while adding just the right amount of moisture.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Balances the natural sweetness of the bananas and gives the brownies a lovely caramelized flavor.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and provide structure for those perfect slices.
- Mature bananas (1 cup mashed, about 2 large): The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness and a soft, moist texture.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances depth of flavor making the brownies wonderfully aromatic.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the sturdy backbone needed for the brownies to rise just right.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps with gentle rise and ensures a tender crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a nice crunch and earthy flavor contrast.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): For the smooth, glossy glaze that crowns these brownies with sweetness.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Makes the glaze silky and easy to spread.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot when the batter is ready. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving the edges hanging over the sides. This little trick makes lifting the brownies out a breeze once they’re baked and cooled.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and inviting. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, then fold in your creamy mashed bananas and vanilla extract. This rich, fragrant mixture is the base of your banana bread brownie magic.
Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—you want to avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. If you’re feeling nutty, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans here for that delightful crunch.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out so it’s level. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan — this step is crucial for the glaze to stick beautifully without melting away.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
While the brownies cool, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove it from the heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth, pourable glaze. This luscious topping adds a shiny, sweet finish that is the perfect partner to the rich banana brownie base.
Step 6: Glaze the Brownies and Slice
Carefully pour the glaze over the cooled brownies, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes so it can set into a delicate, irresistible sheen. Then, use the parchment paper edges to lift the whole batch out of the pan and slice into 16 generous squares.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the glaze before it sets, or add a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder. Fresh banana slices or a dollop of whipped cream make these brownies not only look extra inviting but also add a fresh creaminess that pairs wonderfully with their dense texture.
Side Dishes
These Banana Bread Brownies Recipe treats pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert. For a brunch twist, serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the sweet, spiced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the brownies in cute little paper cupcake liners for effortless portion control at parties. You can also layer them with whipped cream and sliced strawberries to create a layered parfait that surprises and delights. For gift-giving, arrange slices in a decorative box lined with parchment for the perfect homemade present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge where they’ll last about a week without losing their moist, tender goodness.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these brownies later, freezing is a smart move. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To bring the brownies back to fresh-from-the-oven warmth, microwave a slice for about 15 to 20 seconds or warm it gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This revives their soft texture and enhances the flavor, especially if you add a small pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas in this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are actually perfect since they’re sweeter and easier to mash, adding maximum flavor and moisture to your brownies.
What can I substitute for the nuts if I have allergies?
If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts or pecans, or swap them for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch without the risk.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that’s designed to substitute cup-for-cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I know when the brownies are fully baked?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy and moist, which is the real treat of this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently warm and whisk before pouring it over the brownies to ensure it’s smooth and pourable.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Brownies Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It takes the best of two beloved treats and combines them into something truly special you’ll want to bake over and over. I encourage you to try it soon—your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a batch of crowd-pleasing brownies ready to share and savor.
Print
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of banana bread with the fudgy, decadent appeal of brownies. Enhanced with a luscious vanilla glaze and optional walnut or pecan crunch, this dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a unique twist on classic favorites.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Vanilla Glaze
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Add in the eggs, mashed ripe bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients evenly.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain tender texture. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if using for added crunch.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
- Glaze the Brownies: Pour the prepared glaze over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly using a spatula. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into 16 equal bars and serve to enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and moist.
- The glaze can be substituted with cream cheese frosting for a different flavor profile.
- Walnuts or pecans are optional but add a pleasant texture and nutty taste.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
