These Banana Bread Brownies combine the best of both worlds: the soft, comforting texture of banana bread and the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies. Each bite is filled with the perfect balance of sweetness from the ripe bananas and the chocolate chips, making it a treat you’ll keep coming back to. For an added twist, you can top these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, these Banana Bread Brownies are guaranteed to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 ripe bananas
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cocoa powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup butter, melted
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3/4 cup brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup buttermilk
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1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
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In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Stir in the mashed bananas and buttermilk into the wet ingredients until well combined.
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Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth.
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Add chocolate chips if desired and mix until evenly distributed.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Banana Bread Brownies: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert
Banana bread and brownies are two classic desserts that have been loved by generations. But what if you could combine these two favorites into one irresistibly delicious treat? Enter Banana Bread Brownies—a perfect fusion of moist, banana-flavored bread and decadent, fudgy brownies. If you’re looking for a dessert that offers the best of both worlds, then this recipe is your answer. Let’s dive into the backstory, the benefits, and why this recipe stands out as the ultimate comfort dessert.
A Perfect Fusion of Two Classic Desserts
Banana bread and brownies have a special place in many people’s hearts. Banana bread, with its sweet, rich flavor and moist texture, is a staple in many households. Whether it’s a slice for breakfast or a snack with tea, banana bread never disappoints. On the other hand, brownies are an iconic dessert that satisfies any chocolate lover’s cravings with their gooey texture and indulgent flavor.
This recipe for Banana Bread Brownies combines the best aspects of both. The bananas bring the signature sweetness and moistness of banana bread, while the cocoa powder and chocolate chips add that deep, chocolatey richness of brownies. Together, they create an irresistible dessert that’s moist, rich, and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a dessert, it’s sure to become your new favorite go-to treat.
Why Banana Bread Brownies Are the Best
When it comes to choosing a dessert, it’s essential to find something that is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. The Banana Bread Brownies recipe is packed with flavor and has a few benefits that make it a better choice than traditional sugary sweets.
1. The Benefits of Bananas
Bananas are a natural source of essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas allows you to reduce the amount of sugar in your recipe, making it slightly healthier than most traditional dessert recipes. Potassium helps in maintaining heart health, while vitamin C boosts immunity, making these Banana Bread Brownies a treat that provides a little nutritional boost as well.
2. A Healthier Alternative to Regular Brownies
Regular brownies often rely heavily on sugar, butter, and flour, but the Banana Bread Brownies recipe uses healthier substitutions. The mashed bananas provide natural sweetness, which helps reduce the need for excessive sugar. Additionally, using butter in moderation and opting for whole-wheat or almond flour instead of refined flour can make the recipe even more nutritious. You can even substitute the chocolate chips for dark chocolate, which is higher in antioxidants.
3. A Simple, Quick Recipe for Everyone
Many banana bread recipes require a lot of time and effort to prepare, but Banana Bread Brownies are easy to make and take much less time. With only about 10 minutes of preparation time, you can have these treats in the oven and ready to bake in no time. They are perfect for busy individuals, families, or those who want to prepare a quick dessert for unexpected guests.
4. A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Banana Bread Brownies is that they are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing a special dessert for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a casual family meal, this recipe fits all occasions. You can dress it up with whipped cream, ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch, or enjoy it as-is for a simpler treat. These brownies are also great for sharing, whether you’re bringing them to a potluck or giving them as a homemade gift.
How to Customize Banana Bread Brownies
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. There are many ways to customize your Banana Bread Brownies based on personal preferences or dietary needs.
1. Add Nuts or Dried Fruits
For an extra crunch and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They complement the banana flavor beautifully and add texture to the brownies. You can also add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or dates for a more unique twist.
2. Experiment with Different Types of Chocolate
While this recipe calls for chocolate chips, you can easily experiment with other types of chocolate to suit your taste. White chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks can add a different depth of flavor. You could even melt down your favorite chocolate bar and drizzle it on top of the brownies after baking for a luxurious finish.
3. Make It Gluten-Free or Vegan
For those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make this recipe gluten-free or vegan. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use dairy-free butter and egg alternatives such as flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water. These small changes won’t affect the final result, and you’ll still enjoy the same delicious, indulgent dessert.
A Family-Friendly Dessert
One of the reasons Banana Bread Brownies stand out is their family-friendly appeal. The ingredients are simple, inexpensive, and easy to find in any local grocery store, making it a great option for families on a budget. Kids will love the sweetness of the bananas and the chocolatey flavor, while adults will appreciate the nostalgia of banana bread combined with the decadence of brownies.
If you’re looking for a fun family activity, baking these Banana Bread Brownies together can be a great bonding experience. Kids can help mash the bananas, stir the batter, and even decorate the brownies with toppings of their choice. It’s a wonderful way to spend time together in the kitchen and enjoy the fruits of your labor afterward.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread Brownies
To ensure your Banana Bread Brownies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Overripe bananas are ideal because they are soft and full of natural sweetness, making them perfect for baking.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can cause the brownies to become dense and heavy. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients, and avoid over-stirring.
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Check for Doneness: Since ovens can vary, it’s important to check the brownies for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your brownies are ready. If there’s batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes.
Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Brownies
These Banana Bread Brownies are a true showstopper in both flavor and texture. The combination of moist banana bread and indulgent brownie makes for a satisfying dessert that’s not overly sweet but still packed with flavor. Whether you’re a fan of banana bread, brownies, or both, you’ll fall in love with this delicious hybrid treat.
Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they are also incredibly customizable to suit all dietary preferences. With the added bonus of being a great dessert for families and parties alike, you’ll find that these Banana Bread Brownies will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Brownies are a wonderful and unique dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to be customized for different tastes and dietary preferences. With the natural sweetness of bananas, the rich cocoa flavor, and the indulgence of chocolate chips, this treat is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. It’s the perfect comfort dessert for any occasion and a great way to use up overripe bananas. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, a weekend treat, or a gift for a friend, these Banana Bread Brownies are guaranteed to impress.