If classic banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies had a delicious bakery-style baby, this would be it. Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, fruity softness of traditional banana bread with the dense, indulgent texture of brownies. The result? A sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.
As someone who appreciates fruity, sweet flavors in baking, this recipe is a fantastic way to use overripe bananas while creating something a little more special than the usual loaf.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super moist and soft texture
- Rich banana flavor with a brownie-like bite
- Perfect way to use ripe bananas
- Easy, one-bowl batter
- Freezer-friendly
📝 Ingredients
For the Banana Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (very soft and spotty)
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For Brown Butter Glaze (Optional but Recommended)
- 1/4 cup (55g) butter
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2️⃣ Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
Stir in mashed bananas until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually fold dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
3️⃣ Bake
Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let cool completely before glazing.
🍯 Brown Butter Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat.
Whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to reach a pourable consistency.
Spread over cooled banana brownies.
Allow glaze to set before slicing.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Texture
- Use very ripe bananas — the darker, the sweeter.
- Do not overbake; they should stay slightly soft in the center.
- Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for clean, bakery-style squares.
- For extra richness, swirl in 1/4 cup Nutella before baking.
🧊 Storage
- Room temperature: 2–3 days in airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap tightly)
🍽 Serving Ideas
- Warm slightly and serve with vanilla ice cream
- Dust with powdered sugar instead of glaze for a lighter finish
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence
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