Banana Bread Brownies
These Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect fusion of moist banana bread and decadent brownies! The sweet, naturally rich flavor of ripe bananas pairs wonderfully with a melt-in-your-mouth, soft brownie texture. With chocolate chips adding extra indulgence, these banana bread brownies are the ultimate treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a dessert, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth in the best way possible!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until smooth and well-combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the baking soda, salt, and flour. Mix until just incorporated, making sure not to overmix the batter.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter for a touch of extra sweetness and gooey chocolate throughout.
- Pour into the Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the banana bread brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze these brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. You can also warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar for a richer flavor.
- How ripe should the bananas be? Use very ripe bananas that are almost overripe with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture may be denser.
- What can I use instead of chocolate chips? You can use chopped chocolate, peanut butter chips, or even chopped nuts.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
- How can I make these vegan? Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water), and use a plant-based butter alternative.
- Can I add nuts to the brownies? Yes, feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or any other nut you like.
- Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, but the baking time may be slightly longer.
- Should I peel the bananas before mashing them? Yes, peel the bananas before mashing them.
- How can I make these brownies more moist? Make sure to use very ripe bananas and do not overbake the brownies, as they will dry out.
- Can I make this recipe without sugar? You can try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, but the taste and texture may vary.
- Can I add cinnamon or other spices? Yes, adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg will enhance the flavor.
- Can I use oil instead of butter? Yes, you can use vegetable oil or coconut oil as a substitute for melted butter.
- What’s the best way to mash bananas? Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the bananas until smooth, with only a few lumps remaining.
- Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, frozen bananas work great. Just thaw and drain any excess water before mashing.
- What should I do if the brownies are too crumbly? If your brownies are too crumbly, it could be because of too much flour or underbaking. Make sure to measure the flour accurately and bake them a bit longer.
- Can I make mini banana bread brownies? Yes, you can bake the batter in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized brownies. Adjust the baking time to around 15-18 minutes.
- Can I add cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor? Yes, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for an extra chocolatey boost.
- What’s the best way to test if the brownies are done? Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.
- Can I use less sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet brownie.
20 Best Tips to Make Banana Bread Brownies:
- Use super ripe bananas for the sweetest and most flavorful brownies.
- Mash the bananas well to avoid lumps in the batter for a smooth texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the brownies soft.
- Sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top before baking for an extra gooey finish.
- Measure the flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
- Do not overbake – check the brownies at 25 minutes to avoid drying them out.
- Let them cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and easy serving.
- Use room temperature ingredients like butter and eggs to ensure the batter mixes evenly.
- Customize the add-ins with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, coconut, or dried fruit.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut oil and almond milk for the butter and egg.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Add a touch of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness of the bananas.
- Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before baking for a slightly fluffier texture.
- For an extra moist texture, add 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.
- Use a glass baking pan for more even baking and a golden-brown crust.
- For a banana flavor boost, add a small amount of banana extract to the batter.
- Top the brownies with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Cut the brownies into smaller squares if serving for a party or gathering for easy portioning.
Enjoy these delicious Banana Bread Brownies as the perfect treat that combines the best of both worlds!