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Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 85 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, dense texture of traditional brownies with the sweet, fruity flavor of ripe bananas. Perfectly moist and tender, they feature a smooth vanilla glaze topping and optional crunchy nuts for added texture, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.


Ingredients

Brownie Batter

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Vanilla Glaze

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal of the brownies once baked.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Then add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is uniform.
  3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful to avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
  4. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before applying the glaze.
  5. Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
  6. Glaze the Brownies: Pour the prepared vanilla glaze evenly over the cooled brownies, spreading it with a spatula to cover the entire surface. Let the glaze set at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes to allow it to firm up.
  7. Slice and Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice into 16 equal bars and serve. Enjoy as a delightful snack or dessert.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness in the brownies.
  • If preferred, substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
  • Letting the brownies cool completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a nice finish.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk in the glaze with plant-based alternatives.
  • Brownies are best enjoyed within 3 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.