Introduction
Have you ever found yourself with a bunch of overripe bananas and no idea what to do with them? Well, I’ve got the perfect answer for you! These delightful Banana Bread Brownies meld the rich, sweet flavor of bananas with the indulgent taste of chocolate, creating a dessert that is both fudgy and satisfying. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these brownies are the perfect way to use up those ripe bananas while also treating yourself (and maybe a few friends) to a decadent snack. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the brownies later.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, then mix in the melted butter until well combined.
- Stir in the brown sugar, followed by the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is beautifully smooth and glossy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is a tender brownie!
- If you’re using chocolate chips and walnuts, fold them into the batter now, distributing them evenly throughout for a delightful texture.
- Pour the rich, chocolatey batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully lift them out using the parchment paper.
- Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares to serve.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the warm brownies before they cool. You can also substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor!
Cooking Techniques
Creating these brownies is simple, and you’ll love how quickly they come together! The key is to ensure your banana mixture is smooth before adding in the dry ingredients, which will help achieve that luscious, fudgy texture. Mixing gently at the end is crucial to avoid tough brownies, so fold in those toppings with care!
FAQ
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I use other add-ins instead of chocolate chips and walnuts?
Certainly! Feel free to get creative! Dried fruit, peanut butter chips, or even a sprinkle of coconut can add delightful flavors and textures!
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Brownies are more than just a treat; they are a delightful way to embrace the sweetness of ripe bananas while enjoying the rich flavor of chocolate. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an everyday snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy the joyous experience of baking something truly delectable!