Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Name: Banana Bread Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 105 min
Yield: 12
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)

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Making actual banana bread brownies turned out to be a lot harder than I thought. When I saw the food wish, I figured Id just do what I usually do for recipes Ive not tried before, and check out a bunch of versions online before deciding on how to do my twist. Except, I really didnt see any true banana bread brownies, but rather banana bread baked and cut into the shape of a brownie, which is definitely not the same thing. So, I did a few test batches, and eventually accomplished my goal of making something that tastes like banana bread, but looks, feels, and eats like a brownie. These banana bread brownies were sort of halfway between cakey and fudgy, and I loved the balance between the banana and chocolate. As I said in the video, testing the doneness can be a challenge, so be sure to use the skewer test early and often, and as with all brownies, a little undercooked is better than over. But, once you nail the baking time, if youre a fan of banana bread and brownies, this is a must make, and I really do hope you give them a try soon. Enjoy!

More recipes: Try the latest and greatest recipes from Chef John!

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 unsalted butter, at room temperature
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 brle)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Generously butter a 9x9-inch square pan. Optionally, line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval, for 1 to 3 minutes, until smooth.
Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla, and mashed banana to the butter-sugar mixture, and continue beating until fully combined.
Stir in the melted chocolate, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips using a spatula. Then, gently mix in the flour just until it disappears.
Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
If desired, arrange banana slices on top of the batter in a grid pattern.
Bake in the preheated oven until a skewer comes out almost clean but with some batter on the very tip (this may take about 25-30 minutes). If you prefer fudgier brownies, do not overbake.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate until completely chilled, about 1 hour, before serving.

Optional Banana Brle

While the brownies are cooling, sprinkle each banana slice with about half a teaspoon of sugar.
Use a kitchen torch to melt the sugar until it becomes dark brown and bubbly. Be cautious not to burn the edges of the banana slices.
If preferred, you can brle the banana slices before placing them on the batter for baking.

Chefs Note:

If you choose not to do the brle, the banana slices and surface of the brownies can be brushed with honey or maple syrup for a glossy finish.
You can also use an 8x8-inch pan instead of the 9x9-inch one, but you may need to adjust the baking time by a few minutes. Be sure to check doneness with a skewer.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 401
Total Fat: 23g (29% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 12g (61% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 57mg (19% Daily Value)
Sodium: 261mg (11% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 48g (17% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 29g
Protein: 4g (8% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
Calcium: 44mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
Potassium: 211mg (4% Daily Value)

The Origins of Banana Bread Brownies

Banana bread brownies are a creative fusion dessert that combines two beloved baked goods: traditional banana bread and classic chocolate brownies. The idea likely emerged in the early 2000s when home bakers and food bloggers began experimenting with hybrid desserts, seeking to capture the moist, fruity texture of banana bread alongside the rich, fudgy consistency of brownies. Unlike conventional banana bread, which is more loaf-like and cake-like, banana bread brownies are dense, chewy, and chocolate-infused, offering a unique experience for dessert enthusiasts.

Regional Variations

Although this dessert is rooted in American baking traditions, it has been embraced and adapted in various regions. In the Southern United States, recipes often incorporate pecans instead of walnuts, while in the Northeast, some versions include a swirl of cream cheese or caramel. In Western regions, bananas may be caramelized on top or combined with chocolate chips to enhance sweetness. Each regional adaptation highlights local preferences for texture, flavor intensity, and nutty additions, making banana bread brownies versatile and highly customizable.

Distinguishing Features

Banana bread brownies differ from both standard brownies and banana bread. While traditional brownies focus on chocolate intensity and fudginess, banana bread brownies include mashed ripe bananas, which lend natural sweetness and moisture. Unlike banana bread, which is often baked as a loaf and sliced, banana bread brownies are typically baked in square or rectangular pans for uniform pieces with a chewy, slightly gooey center. This hybridization creates a dessert that balances fruitiness with chocolate richness, offering a unique textural experience.

Common Serving Occasions

Banana bread brownies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many contexts. They are often served chilled or at room temperature as a snack, dessert, or part of a brunch spread. Cafs and bakeries frequently offer them alongside coffee or tea, while home bakers may prepare them for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family celebrations. Optional toppings, such as caramelized banana slices, chocolate drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar, make them visually appealing and enhance flavor complexity.

Interesting Facts

The dessert gained popularity through online recipe videos, especially those showcasing step-by-step baking techniques for achieving the perfect balance between fudgy and moist textures.
Ripe bananas are essential: overripe bananas with brown spots contribute natural sweetness and a soft texture that contrasts beautifully with chocolate.
Some bakers opt for a banana brle on top, lightly torching sugar-coated banana slices to create a caramelized layer that adds flavor depth and visual flair.
Despite its simplicity, achieving the correct baking time can be tricky. Slightly underbaking results in a soft, gooey center, while overbaking can make the brownies dry and less flavorful.
Banana bread brownies are often mistaken for traditional brownies, but they are a distinct dessert with a hybrid identity, offering the best characteristics of both parent desserts.

FAQ about Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Yes, you can use an 8x8-inch pan instead of the 9x9-inch pan. However, be aware that the baking time may increase by a few minutes, so it's important to test the brownies with a skewer to ensure they are fully cooked.

Yes, these banana bread brownies can be stored in an airtight container. You should refrigerate them to keep them fresh, and they will last for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.

Yes, the brûlée step is optional. If you prefer, you can skip it or brush the banana slices with honey or maple syrup for a glossy appearance.

If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can place the banana slices under a broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sugar. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of the brownies will vary depending on the type of chocolate you choose.

Yes, you can replace the walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version. You can also substitute them with dried fruit or additional chocolate chips.

To check if the brownies are done, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. For fudgier brownies, avoid overcooking them.

Yes, you can use frozen bananas that have been thawed. Just make sure to mash them well before using them in the recipe.

If your brownies are too undercooked in the center, you can place them back in the oven for a few extra minutes, checking for doneness every 2–3 minutes. You can also try baking at a slightly lower temperature to ensure they cook evenly.

Refrigerating the brownies is not mandatory, but it helps to firm up the texture and enhance the flavors. If you prefer them warm, you can serve them immediately after cooling, but they are also delicious when chilled.

Comments

TealStir7477

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I turned the oven to 400, and after i put the brownies in, i turned it down to 350. I baked for 32 mins, and the toothpick came out clean, but once it set the center wass still a gooey mess (not a good one). Next batch, same same, but at 32 mins, left brownies in, turned the oven off and let it set an additional 7 minutes, and they were perfect! Done and chewy on the inside, nice crunch on the outside! Thanks!

Kim

09/06/2025 07:19:46 PM

I thought these brownies turned out very well! They've got the perfect combo of banana bread and brownie. My changes were to use brown sugar in place of white, and add a bit of cinnamon. I also did not refrigerate the brownies before serving, and they were great! Brulee-ing the banana slices on top was a really nice touch. It added a nice caramelized flavor that took the brownies over the top. The only issue I had was with bake time. There's no bake time listed at all in the recipe; but in the video it says 30 minutes. However, my brownies were still totally raw, and not even close to done at 30 mins. In the end, they required 42 minutes total bake time. I would make these again, though! Thank you for sharing your recipe!

ronprast

02/06/2025 06:30:17 PM

I thought this was very good. I baked it for 40 minutes and it was just right. Maybe the only thing I would add is an extra egg.

Aaron Thompson

08/28/2024 07:36:30 PM

Even my picky cousin went for seconds.

JumpyPeel3045

03/17/2024 05:15:00 PM

These are not brownies! This is a chocolatey banana bread with a chewy brownie like texture. If you go into this expecting brownies, you’ll be disappointed. If you go into it expecting a banana bread with chocolate, you will be pleased. I baked this in a 9 inch round pan lined with parchment for 30 min. The outside cooked much more than the middle. The outside was still nice and moist, even more than a traditional banana bread. The middle was extra fudgy like a brownie. I used store brand dark chocolate chips because it’s all I had on hand, but I think it made it a little too sweet and not as dark as Chef John’s. This is a super tasty recipe!

Emily Wagner

02/28/2024 10:41:08 PM

4 stars, but I don't know if I made some mistakes. Mistake 1: using an 8x8 pan . Mistake 2: my two bananas were really big? I would describe my results as a chocolatey banana bread more than a brownie. #1. After 30 minutes, I put foil around the edges so they didn't burn. I baked it for 10-15 more minutes and the toothpick came out cleanish. However, when I cut into it after it cooled, the center pieces were undercooked. I baked these slices in the toaster oven to finish them. #2. The finished texture is very soft and mushy. It has a some structure at the edges but the other pieces falls apart pretty easily. I wonder if another egg would have helped like in brownie recipes. The batter looked to be the same consistency as in the video.I replaced the walnuts with more chocolate chips as I've done with other recipes and I don't think that's the issue. The flavor is awesome and I want to try this again. Perhaps I just need to cover the whole thing after 30 min and bake it for even longer, like a banana bread loaf.

Sharon Pickell

02/25/2024 11:38:42 PM

Easy to follow instructions make this very easy to bake. Will be making this with aging bananas now instead of just plain Banana Bread!

audio version

Cook Time: 85 minutes

Preserved Lemon Blueberry Pie Recipe

View Recipe

audio version

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Ingredients