Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on two classic treats. This recipe combines the moistness of banana bread with the rich chocolate flavor of brownies. The result is an indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you have ripe bananas on hand or just crave something sweet, these brownies will hit the spot!
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why Banana Bread Brownies are a great choice. First, they are easy to make and require simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. Second, they are a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas that you’ve been meaning to eat. Lastly, the combination of banana and chocolate creates a delicious flavor that everyone will love. You can enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even treat yourself during a cozy night in.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Making Banana Bread Brownies is simple and fun! You just need to follow a few easy steps, and before you know it, you’ll have a batch of delicious brownies ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cocoa powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour in the milk and stir until smooth.
- If desired, fold in the chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
Banana Bread Brownies can be served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat. They also pair well with coffee or tea, making them a lovely option for afternoon snacks or gatherings.
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
To store your Banana Bread Brownies, keep them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies
- Make sure the bananas are really ripe for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mixing just until combined is key for soft brownies.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like peanut butter chips or dried fruits to customize your brownies.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other flavors or ingredients. For a nutty twist, try using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace some of the cocoa powder with more flour if you want a lighter banana bread texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
How can I make these brownies vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use non-dairy butter or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter.
Enjoy making and sharing your Banana Bread Brownies!