Banana Bread Brownies Simple and Delicious Treat

by
To make banana bread brownies, you need a few key ingredients: - 2 ripe bananas, thoroughly mashed until smooth - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt These ingredients work together to create a moist and rich treat. The ripe bananas add natural sweetness. The cocoa powder gives it that deep chocolate flavor. You can make these brownies even better with mix-ins. Here are a few ideas: - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips These add a nice crunch and extra chocolatey goodness. Feel free to get creative! You can try different nuts or even add some peanut butter. When selecting bananas, look for these tips: - Choose bananas that are yellow with brown spots. - Avoid green bananas, as they are not sweet enough. - Soft, overripe bananas work best for mashing. The riper the banana, the sweeter your brownies will be. You want them to be soft and easy to mash. This will ensure your brownies are moist and full of flavor. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x9 inch baking pan. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the brownies come out easily after baking. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth. Add the applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk these together until the mix is smooth. This blend adds moisture and flavor to your brownies. In another bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures your dry mix is light. This step is key for fluffy brownies. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently until just combined. Now, fold in the walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chips if you want extra flavor and crunch. Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly with your spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Once baked, let them cool in the pan before slicing into squares. To get the right texture for your banana bread brownies, focus on mixing. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. Over-mixing can make your brownies tough. Use a spatula and fold gently. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy. If your brownies come out too dry, you may have baked them too long. Check them a few minutes early next time. If they are too gooey, increase the baking time slightly. Ensure you use ripe bananas, as they add moisture. If your brownies sink, it may be due to underbaking. Always test with a toothpick. To keep your brownies fresh, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They'll last for up to three months in the freezer. Pro Tips Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts. Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to personalize your brownies by adding chocolate chunks, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor! {{image_4}} To make banana bread brownies gluten-free, swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps the brownies hold together. You can also use almond flour or oat flour as good choices. Just remember that the texture may differ a bit. For a vegan twist, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter instead of coconut oil. Also, make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This version keeps all the yummy flavors while being plant-based. You can add peanut butter for a nutty flavor. Swirl in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter before baking. Another option is caramel. Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the batter before baking. This adds a sweet touch. You can also mix in chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips for even more flavor. To serve your banana bread brownies, make them look special. Cut them into neat squares. Place them on a colorful plate. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. You can also stack them high for a fun display. Garnish with a mint leaf for color. This simple trick makes them look like a fancy dessert. These brownies shine when paired with ice cream. A scoop of vanilla on top is perfect. The cold ice cream melts into the warm brownie. This creates a delightful contrast of textures. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter option. Just a dollop adds sweetness and creaminess. Both options make your treat feel extra special. What drinks go well with banana bread brownies? A nice cup of coffee is an excellent choice. The rich flavors of coffee match the chocolatey treats well. You can also serve a glass of milk. The creamy texture of milk balances the brownies nicely. For a fun twist, try a scoop of ice cream in soda. This makes a float that pairs wonderfully with your brownies. Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them first. Make sure to drain any excess liquid. Frozen bananas work well since they are very soft and sweet. They give your brownies a great banana flavor and moisture. To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet, they need more time. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end. You can use other oils, like vegetable oil or melted butter. Each option will change the flavor slightly. If you want a healthy choice, try using applesauce. It will keep your brownies moist and add sweetness. To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap for extra protection. They will stay fresh for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before serving! You learned how to make banana bread brownies from scratch. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to perfect your bake. Don’t forget the fun mix-ins and variations for your unique twist. Proper storage keeps them fresh for longer. Enjoy these brownies warm, with ice cream or coffee. Happy baking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Do you love the comforting taste of banana bread? How about brownies? If you’re nodding your head, you’re in for a treat! I’m excited to share my simple recipe for Banana Bread Brownies. These treats combine the best of both worlds—soft, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you want a classic version or something unique, I’ve got you covered. Get ready to bake something amazing you won’t want to share!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of bananas and cocoa creates a rich, moist brownie that’s different from traditional recipes.
  2. Healthier Ingredients: Using applesauce and coconut oil adds moisture while reducing unhealthy fats, making these brownies a guilt-free treat.
  3. Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and minimal equipment, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  4. Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to make these brownies your own, ensuring every bite is a delightful surprise.

Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies

To make banana bread brownies, you need a few key ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, thoroughly mashed until smooth

– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

– 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs, at room temperature

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted

– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

These ingredients work together to create a moist and rich treat. The ripe bananas add natural sweetness. The cocoa powder gives it that deep chocolate flavor.

Optional Mix-ins for Added Flavor

You can make these brownies even better with mix-ins. Here are a few ideas:

– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

These add a nice crunch and extra chocolatey goodness. Feel free to get creative! You can try different nuts or even add some peanut butter.

Tips for Choosing the Best Bananas

When selecting bananas, look for these tips:

– Choose bananas that are yellow with brown spots.

– Avoid green bananas, as they are not sweet enough.

– Soft, overripe bananas work best for mashing.

The riper the banana, the sweeter your brownies will be. You want them to be soft and easy to mash. This will ensure your brownies are moist and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9 inch baking pan. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the brownies come out easily after baking.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth. Add the applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk these together until the mix is smooth. This blend adds moisture and flavor to your brownies.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures your dry mix is light. This step is key for fluffy brownies.

Folding Batter and Adding Mix-ins

Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently until just combined. Now, fold in the walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chips if you want extra flavor and crunch.

Baking Time and Doneness Check

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly with your spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Once baked, let them cool in the pan before slicing into squares.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Texture

To get the right texture for your banana bread brownies, focus on mixing. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. Over-mixing can make your brownies tough. Use a spatula and fold gently. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy.

Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, you may have baked them too long. Check them a few minutes early next time. If they are too gooey, increase the baking time slightly. Ensure you use ripe bananas, as they add moisture. If your brownies sink, it may be due to underbaking. Always test with a toothpick.

Storing Leftover Brownies Safely

To keep your brownies fresh, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to three months in the freezer.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
  3. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts.
  4. Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to personalize your brownies by adding chocolate chunks, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor!

Variations

Gluten-Free Adaptation

To make banana bread brownies gluten-free, swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps the brownies hold together. You can also use almond flour or oat flour as good choices. Just remember that the texture may differ a bit.

Vegan Version of Banana Bread Brownies

For a vegan twist, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter instead of coconut oil. Also, make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This version keeps all the yummy flavors while being plant-based.

Flavor Additions: Peanut Butter or Caramel

You can add peanut butter for a nutty flavor. Swirl in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter before baking. Another option is caramel. Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the batter before baking. This adds a sweet touch. You can also mix in chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips for even more flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Creative Presentation Ideas

To serve your banana bread brownies, make them look special. Cut them into neat squares. Place them on a colorful plate. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. You can also stack them high for a fun display. Garnish with a mint leaf for color. This simple trick makes them look like a fancy dessert.

Pairing with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream

These brownies shine when paired with ice cream. A scoop of vanilla on top is perfect. The cold ice cream melts into the warm brownie. This creates a delightful contrast of textures. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter option. Just a dollop adds sweetness and creaminess. Both options make your treat feel extra special.

Perfect Beverages to Accompany Brownies

What drinks go well with banana bread brownies? A nice cup of coffee is an excellent choice. The rich flavors of coffee match the chocolatey treats well. You can also serve a glass of milk. The creamy texture of milk balances the brownies nicely. For a fun twist, try a scoop of ice cream in soda. This makes a float that pairs wonderfully with your brownies.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them first. Make sure to drain any excess liquid. Frozen bananas work well since they are very soft and sweet. They give your brownies a great banana flavor and moisture.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet, they need more time. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end.

What can I substitute for coconut oil?

You can use other oils, like vegetable oil or melted butter. Each option will change the flavor slightly. If you want a healthy choice, try using applesauce. It will keep your brownies moist and add sweetness.

How do I store banana bread brownies for freshness?

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap for extra protection. They will stay fresh for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before serving!

You learned how to make banana bread brownies from scratch. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to perfect your bake. Don’t forget the fun mix-ins and variations for your unique twist. Proper storage keeps them fresh for longer. Enjoy these brownies warm, with ice cream or coffee. Happy bakin

To make banana bread brownies, you need a few key ingredients: - 2 ripe bananas, thoroughly mashed until smooth - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt These ingredients work together to create a moist and rich treat. The ripe bananas add natural sweetness. The cocoa powder gives it that deep chocolate flavor. You can make these brownies even better with mix-ins. Here are a few ideas: - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips These add a nice crunch and extra chocolatey goodness. Feel free to get creative! You can try different nuts or even add some peanut butter. When selecting bananas, look for these tips: - Choose bananas that are yellow with brown spots. - Avoid green bananas, as they are not sweet enough. - Soft, overripe bananas work best for mashing. The riper the banana, the sweeter your brownies will be. You want them to be soft and easy to mash. This will ensure your brownies are moist and full of flavor. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x9 inch baking pan. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the brownies come out easily after baking. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth. Add the applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk these together until the mix is smooth. This blend adds moisture and flavor to your brownies. In another bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures your dry mix is light. This step is key for fluffy brownies. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently until just combined. Now, fold in the walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chips if you want extra flavor and crunch. Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly with your spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Once baked, let them cool in the pan before slicing into squares. To get the right texture for your banana bread brownies, focus on mixing. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they come together. Over-mixing can make your brownies tough. Use a spatula and fold gently. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy. If your brownies come out too dry, you may have baked them too long. Check them a few minutes early next time. If they are too gooey, increase the baking time slightly. Ensure you use ripe bananas, as they add moisture. If your brownies sink, it may be due to underbaking. Always test with a toothpick. To keep your brownies fresh, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They'll last for up to three months in the freezer. Pro Tips Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts. Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to personalize your brownies by adding chocolate chunks, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor! {{image_4}} To make banana bread brownies gluten-free, swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps the brownies hold together. You can also use almond flour or oat flour as good choices. Just remember that the texture may differ a bit. For a vegan twist, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter instead of coconut oil. Also, make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This version keeps all the yummy flavors while being plant-based. You can add peanut butter for a nutty flavor. Swirl in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter before baking. Another option is caramel. Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the batter before baking. This adds a sweet touch. You can also mix in chopped nuts or extra chocolate chips for even more flavor. To serve your banana bread brownies, make them look special. Cut them into neat squares. Place them on a colorful plate. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. You can also stack them high for a fun display. Garnish with a mint leaf for color. This simple trick makes them look like a fancy dessert. These brownies shine when paired with ice cream. A scoop of vanilla on top is perfect. The cold ice cream melts into the warm brownie. This creates a delightful contrast of textures. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter option. Just a dollop adds sweetness and creaminess. Both options make your treat feel extra special. What drinks go well with banana bread brownies? A nice cup of coffee is an excellent choice. The rich flavors of coffee match the chocolatey treats well. You can also serve a glass of milk. The creamy texture of milk balances the brownies nicely. For a fun twist, try a scoop of ice cream in soda. This makes a float that pairs wonderfully with your brownies. Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them first. Make sure to drain any excess liquid. Frozen bananas work well since they are very soft and sweet. They give your brownies a great banana flavor and moisture. To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet, they need more time. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end. You can use other oils, like vegetable oil or melted butter. Each option will change the flavor slightly. If you want a healthy choice, try using applesauce. It will keep your brownies moist and add sweetness. To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. You can also wrap them in plastic wrap for extra protection. They will stay fresh for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before serving! You learned how to make banana bread brownies from scratch. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to perfect your bake. Don’t forget the fun mix-ins and variations for your unique twist. Proper storage keeps them fresh for longer. Enjoy these brownies warm, with ice cream or coffee. Happy baking!

Banana Bread Brownies Delight

A delicious blend of banana bread and brownies, featuring rich chocolate and optional nuts for added texture.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 whole ripe bananas, thoroughly mashed until smooth
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce, for added moisture
  • 0.33 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly
  • 0.5 cup packed brown sugar for richness
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar for sweetness
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, for flavor
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, for that chocolatey goodness
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda, to help the brownies rise
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt, to enhance the flavors
  • 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional), for crunch
  • 0.5 cup dark chocolate chips, for indulgent bites

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Crack in the eggs and add the vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk these in until the mixture is fully homogenous and slightly airy.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure there are no lumps and that the ingredients are well mixed.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to over-mix to maintain the brownies’ soft texture.
  • Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chips, if you choose to include them. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the brownies.
  • Carefully pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
  • Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, rather than wet batter.
  • Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, slice into 16 squares for perfect serving size.

Notes

For a delightful serving, offer the banana bread brownies warm. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or complement with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat!
Keyword banana, brownies, chocolate, dessert

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