If you can’t decide between banana bread and brownies, why not enjoy the best of both? These Banana Bread Brownies are irresistibly soft, moist, and packed with sweet banana flavor, finished with a rich buttery vanilla glaze that melts into every bite.
Made with ripe bananas, pantry staples, and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas. The texture is lighter than a traditional brownie but richer than classic banana bread, creating a dessert that’s wonderfully tender, chewy around the edges, and impossible to resist.
Whether you’re baking for family, sharing with friends, or simply treating yourself, these banana bread brownies are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super moist and soft
- Easy one-bowl recipe
- Perfect for ripe bananas
- Rich buttery vanilla glaze
- Ready in under an hour
- Family-friendly dessert
- Great for meal prep
- Freezer-friendly
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Brownies
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- Β½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1Β½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Β½ teaspoon salt
- Β½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Β½ cup white chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Vanilla Butter Glaze
- ΒΌ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9Γ13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line a 9Γ13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips or walnuts if using.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25β30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Remove from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 6: Glaze the Brownies
While the brownies are still slightly warm, pour the glaze over the top and spread evenly.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the brownies to cool completely so the glaze can set.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Cut into squares and enjoy with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Brownies
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter.
- Pour the glaze over warm brownies so it soaks in slightly.
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them moist.
Delicious Variations
Chocolate Chip Banana Brownies
Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Cream Cheese Banana Brownies
Swirl softened cream cheese into the batter before baking.
Peanut Butter Banana Brownies
Drizzle melted peanut butter over the top.
Walnut Banana Brownies
Mix chopped walnuts into the batter for crunch.
Cinnamon Banana Brownies
Add extra cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for warm spice.
What to Serve With Them
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
- Hot coffee
- Iced latte
- Chai tea
- Caramel sauce
- Chocolate drizzle
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freeze individual squares for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely. The brownies are still delicious without it.
How do I know they’re done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Definitely! Chocolate chips pair wonderfully with banana.
Nutrition Information
Approximate per serving
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
Nutrition values are estimates.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Brownies combine everything you love about classic banana bread and soft, rich brownies into one irresistible dessert. Moist, buttery, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they’re the perfect way to transform ripe bananas into a bakery-worthy treat.
Once you bake a batch, don’t be surprised if everyone asks for the recipe!