Name: Banana Bread Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting); 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting); 3 tablespoons milk

Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

If you enjoy both banana bread and brownies, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds. The banana layer is naturally sweet and incredibly moist, while the chocolate portion adds depth and richness.

This recipe is simple to prepare with basic pantry ingredients and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. It’s perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, afternoon snacks, or dessert after dinner.

The marbled swirl not only looks impressive but also ensures every bite delivers a balanced mix of banana and chocolate flavor. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to transform overripe bananas into something truly special.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter, melted
granulated sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
unsweetened cocoa powder
chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
ripe bananas, mashed

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Mix until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly into two bowls.
In one bowl, mix in the cocoa powder and chocolate chips to create the brownie batter.
In the second bowl, fold in the mashed bananas to create the banana bread batter.
Spread the banana batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Spoon dollops of the chocolate batter over the banana layer.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two batters together to create a marbled effect.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–16 squares

Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations
For a nutty crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to either batter before baking.
Swirl a few spoonfuls of peanut butter into the top for a chocolate-peanut butter twist.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the banana batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Stir in white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
For a richer dessert, top the cooled brownies with a simple chocolate glaze or cream cheese frosting.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a longer storage option, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

These brownies also freeze well. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, warm a square in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to restore softness and enhance the chocolate flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding them to the batter.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe with brown spots. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for similar results.

Why are my brownies too dense?

Overmixing the batter can make them dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time may need slight adjustment.

How do I know when they are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce the sugar, especially if your bananas are very sweet, but reducing too much may affect texture.

Can I add extra chocolate chips?

Absolutely. Fold in additional chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.

Should I refrigerate leftovers?

They can be stored at room temperature, but refrigeration will extend freshness, especially in warm climates.

Can I frost these brownies?

Yes, a chocolate glaze, cream cheese frosting, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar works beautifully.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate dessert fusion, combining the comforting flavor of banana bread with the indulgent richness of brownies. They are moist, flavorful, and simple to prepare, making them ideal for both everyday baking and special occasions. Whether you enjoy them plain, swirled with extra chocolate, or topped with frosting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Banana Bread Brownies

Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating