Name: Banana Bread Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas (mashed); ½ cup unsalted butter (melted); ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate); Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans; Optional: ¼ tsp cinnamon or ½ tsp espresso powder for added depth

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Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Brownies

Got a bunch of overripe bananas sitting on the counter? Craving something sweet but can’t decide between banana bread or brownies? Let’s fix that with the best of both worlds—Banana Bread Brownies.

This cozy dessert has the soft, moist texture of classic banana bread combined with the rich, fudgy decadence of a brownie. It’s a delightful mash-up that feels familiar yet exciting, and it comes together easily with pantry staples.

Whether you’re baking for your family, prepping snacks for the week, or just want to use up those bananas before they go too far, this easy banana bread brownies recipe has your back. It’s a one-bowl, no-fuss treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Plus, it’s flexible! Toss in some chocolate chips, swirl in peanut butter, or keep it simple. However you make them, you’re in for a comforting bite that tastes like home.

What Are Banana Bread Brownies?

Banana Bread Brownies are exactly what they sound like: a dessert hybrid that brings together the best parts of banana bread and brownies. You get that deep banana flavor and tender crumb from the bread, plus the slightly chewy, rich bite of a brownie. It’s not quite cake, not quite blondie—just its own delicious category.

These bars are especially popular among home bakers looking for something unique yet simple. They’ve been trending lately because they’re fun, fast, and a creative way to use bananas outside the usual loaf. You’ll often find variations with nuts, swirls, or frosting—so there’s plenty of room to get creative.

If you’ve ever wished banana bread had more of a dessert edge, this is your answer. The balance of flavors is what makes it work: the sweetness of ripe bananas, the depth of brown sugar, and just enough richness to feel indulgent without going overboard.

Key Ingredients & Why They Matter

Every ingredient in Banana Bread Brownies plays an important role in texture, taste, and structure. Let’s break it down:

Bananas: This is the heart of the recipe. Use very ripe bananas with brown spots or even blackened skins—they’re sweeter, softer, and add unbeatable moisture and flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds more than sweetness—it brings a slight molasses flavor that deepens the taste and keeps the texture chewy and moist.
Eggs & Butter: These two work together to create structure and richness. The eggs bind everything, while butter adds fat for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
All-Purpose Flour: Reliable and sturdy. If you prefer a lighter texture, cake flour is an option, but AP flour gives you the classic dense crumb that makes these brownies so satisfying.
Chocolate (Chips or Melted): Balances the banana flavor with bold richness. You can use semisweet, milk, or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
Optional Add-ins: Want to jazz things up? Toss in walnuts, swirl in peanut butter, or mix in a touch of espresso powder for depth.

Pro Tip: The darker and mushier the banana, the better it’ll taste in these brownies!

Equipment You’ll Need

Good news—you don’t need anything fancy to whip up these Banana Bread Brownies. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

Mixing bowls (one large, one small if needed)
Hand or stand mixer (or just a whisk and elbow grease!)
9×13-inch baking pan (an 8×8 works too, just adjust baking time)
Parchment paper for easy removal and less mess
Spatula for mixing and spreading the batter
Cooling rack to help the brownies set properly after baking

Most of this is already in your kitchen, making this a perfect last-minute bake!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Let’s walk through the process to make sure your Banana Bread Brownies come out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash Bananas & Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash 3 very ripe bananas until smooth. Add in melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in your flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently—just until no dry streaks remain. Don’t overmix! This keeps the brownies soft.

Step 4: Fold in Add-ins

If using, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or a swirl of peanut butter. Keep the mix-ins light to avoid weighing the batter down.

Step 5: Pour & Bake

Spread the batter evenly into your pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You don’t want it dry!

Step 6: Cool & Cut

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment paper and let cool completely on a rack before slicing.

Chef’s Tip: For ultra-moist brownies, slightly underbake them. The residual heat will finish the job without drying them out.

Best Banana Bread Brownie Variations

Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, it’s time to have some fun with flavor twists and textures! Here are some popular and creative variations you’ll love:

Chocolate Swirl Banana Brownies: Melt a bit of semi-sweet chocolate and swirl it through the batter before baking for a marbled look and extra richness.
Peanut Butter Banana Brownies: Add dollops of peanut butter and gently swirl into the top of the batter. Bonus: sprinkle chopped peanuts for crunch!
Vegan Version: Swap regular eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg), use plant-based butter, and check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, or try almond flour for a slightly nuttier taste. Note: texture may be a bit more tender.

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Nutty Twist: Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts for added crunch and depth of flavor.
Frosted Finish: Once cooled, top your brownies with a simple cream cheese frosting or rich brown butter icing for bakery-level indulgence.

Customize It: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter to bring out the banana and chocolate flavors even more!

How to Store, Reheat & Freeze

These brownies store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead dessert or snack.

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool spot away from direct sunlight.
In the Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate—but be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.
Freezer-Friendly: Banana Bread Brownies freeze like a dream! Let them cool completely, slice into squares, and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Warm a brownie square in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back that soft, gooey texture. It’s like they just came out of the oven!

Storage Tip: For on-the-go treats, freeze individual portions and pop one into your lunch bag—it’ll thaw by snack time!

What to Serve with Banana Bread Brownies

These brownies are rich and flavorful, but pairing them with the right sides or drinks can take things to the next level.

Beverage Pairings: You can’t go wrong with a glass of cold milk, a smooth chai latte, or a cup of iced coffee. The creamy drinks balance the sweetness perfectly.
Add to a Dessert Board: Slice them into bite-sized pieces and serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even cheese cubes for contrast. Great for parties!
Banana Brownie Sundae: Feeling extra? Warm a brownie, top with vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, and crushed nuts. Instant crowd-pleaser!

These brownies are flexible—serve them simple or go all out for a celebration-worthy treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here’s what to watch out for:

Using Underripe Bananas: If they aren’t super ripe, the flavor will fall flat. You want deeply speckled or even blackened bananas.
Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the texture rubbery and tough.
Overbaking: This is the fastest way to dry out your brownies. Bake until the center is just set—a few moist crumbs on the toothpick is perfect.
Skipping Parchment Paper: Lining your pan ensures easy removal and helps avoid sticking disasters.
Adding Too Many Mix-ins: It’s tempting, but don’t go overboard with chocolate, nuts, or swirls. Too many add-ins can weigh down the batter and make the bars fall apart.

Stick to these tips, and you’ll be rewarded with moist, fudgy perfection every time!

FAQs – Banana Bread Brownies

Can I make these without chocolate?

Absolutely! Just skip the chocolate chips or swirl, and you’ll have a more classic banana bread flavor in brownie form.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Go for very ripe to overripe bananas—lots of brown spots or fully black skins are ideal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger pan or split into two pans. Extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes, and keep an eye on the center.

Are banana brownies supposed to be gooey in the center?

A slightly gooey middle is great! Just make sure it’s not raw. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use frozen bananas?

You can! Just thaw completely and drain excess liquid before mashing.

Final Thoughts & Encouragement

These Banana Bread Brownies are proof that the best recipes come from using what you already have—like those overripe bananas on the counter. They’re easy to whip up, endlessly customizable, and always a hit.

Try a fun twist with peanut butter or go classic with chocolate chips—either way, you’ll be making them again soon. Don’t be surprised if they disappear within hours!

Got your own variation? Share it in the comments—we’d love to see how yours turn out.

Once you try these, plain banana bread just won’t cut it anymore!