If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that combines the moist, comforting essence of banana bread with the rich, chewy decadence of brownies, this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite is an irresistible fusion of sweet banana flavor, warm cinnamon, and a tender crumb that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend treat or impressing friends with your baking skills, these brownies bring smiles and satisfied sighs with every square.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Banana Bread Brownies Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the richness of melted butter to the brightness of ripe bananas, every element is thoughtfully chosen.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds a luscious richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Provides sweetness and keeps the brownies moist.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Infuses a subtle caramel note and chewiness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and give structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Offers moisture and tang for a perfectly soft bite.
- Ripe bananas (2, mashed): The star ingredient that lends natural sweetness and a wonderful homemade feel.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure without making it too dense.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the brownies rise lightly while keeping them tender.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Reacts with the sour cream and bananas to aid texture and lift.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances flavors and deepens sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a cozy spice note that pairs beautifully with banana.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prep step ensures your Banana Bread Brownies release easily after baking and have nice edges.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until you have a smooth, glossy mixture. Then add in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream. Whisk everything together until completely combined. Finally, stir in the mashed bananas to infuse your batter with that signature banana flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these well ensures your leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined. Resist the urge to overmix here; you want tender, not tough, Banana Bread Brownies. The batter will be thick and ready to pour into your prepared pan.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let your brownies cool completely in the pan to set perfectly.
Step 6: Optional Cream Cheese Frosting
If you want to elevate these Banana Bread Brownies even more, whip up a simple cream cheese frosting. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Spread this fluffy frosting over the cooled brownies for a luscious finishing touch.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These Banana Bread Brownies shine on their own, but you can add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra pop. Toasted pecans or a drizzle of melted chocolate also make fantastic garnishes and elevate the visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the warm banana and cinnamon flavors. Fresh berries can add a vibrant contrast, while a cup of hot coffee or chai tea rounds out the cozy experience beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut these brownies into bite-sized squares for a party platter or stack them on a dessert plate layered with seasonal fruit and nuts. For a fun twist, turn your Banana Bread Brownies Recipe into a layered trifle with cream and banana slices, creating a show-stopping dessert everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for the week or to share with family and friends.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer warm brownies, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens them back to that freshly baked warmth and makes any leftovers just as delightful as when first made.
FAQs
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the Banana Bread Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter is a delicious way to add texture and extra flavor. Fold them in gently during the final mixing step.
What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?
You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk in equal amounts. These options will keep your brownies moist and tender without changing the flavor too much.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
The bananas should be very ripe, ideally with plenty of brown spots on the peel. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your Banana Bread Brownies will turn out.
Is this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe gluten-free friendly?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that substitute 1:1 for all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free version.
Can I make these Banana Bread Brownies vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer instead of regular eggs. Use a plant-based sour cream alternative and your results will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your taste buds with something that feels both nostalgic and new, the Banana Bread Brownies Recipe is your kitchen’s new best friend. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavors makes it one of those go-to desserts you’ll want to bake again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear how much you love every bite!
