why make this recipe
Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional banana bread and brownies. They combine the moist, banana flavor of classic banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. This means you get the best of both worlds in one tasty treat! Whether you’re looking to use up ripe bananas or simply indulge in a delicious dessert, these brownies are perfect for any occasion.
how to make Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 ounces dark chocolate, broken into pieces
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temp
1 large egg
2 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
12 slices banana, optional
2 tablespoons white sugar (optional, for banana brûlée)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously butter a 9×9-inch square pan. A piece of parchment paper can also be added to the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl; set aside.
- Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe glass or ceramic bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval, 1 to 3 minutes.
- Beat butter and sugar together in a large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and mashed banana, and beat until combined. Add chocolate, and beat until mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Use a spatula to mix in walnuts and chocolate chips, then use the spatula to mix in flour just until flour disappears. Transfer batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Place banana slices on top, evenly spaced in a grid pattern.
- Bake in the preheated oven until a skewer comes out almost clean but with some batter on the very tip. If you want fudgier brownies, do not overcook.
- Let brownies cool in the pan. Cover, refrigerate until cold, about 1 hour, and serve chilled.
- For optional banana brûlée: While brownies are cooling, cover each banana slice with a half teaspoon of sugar. Use a propane kitchen torch to melt the sugar until dark brown and bubbling. Be careful not to char the edges of the crust around the banana too much. This banana brûlée step can also be done before the brownies go into the oven.
how to serve Banana Bread Brownies
These brownies are best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator. You can enjoy them plain, or for a fancier touch, add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream on the side. If you made the banana brûlée, place the caramelized banana slices on top for a beautiful finish.
how to store Banana Bread Brownies
Store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They should stay good for up to three months.
tips to make Banana Bread Brownies
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour; this keeps your brownies soft.
- If you don’t have a propane torch for the banana brûlée, you can place the banana slices with sugar under a broiler for a few minutes.
variation
You can switch up the nuts or chocolate chips based on your preferences. Try using pecans instead of walnuts or adding white chocolate chips for a different flavor. You can also mix in spices like cinnamon for added warmth.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and mash them well before adding them to the batter.
2. Can I leave out the nuts?
Absolutely! If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
3. How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check with a skewer; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, they’re ready!