Description
These Banana Bread Brownies combine the best of two classic treats into one decadent dessert. Moist mashed bananas add natural sweetness and a rich texture, while cocoa powder and optional chocolate chips create a deep chocolate flavor. With a tender crumb and hints of nuts for crunch, these brownies are perfect for an easy homemade treat that satisfies sweet cravings in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 2 pieces ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat 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 bananas and melted butter until well mixed.
- Add Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla: Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture and mix until smooth.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using, to add extra chocolate flavor and crunch.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and spread it out smoothly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix batter once dry ingredients are added to avoid dense brownies.
- You can reduce sugar slightly if your bananas are very ripe and sweet.
- Feel free to substitute nuts or omit them for a nut-free treat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
