The aroma of freshly baked banana bread brownies wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. A rich blend of chocolatey goodness and the comforting essence of ripe bananas makes this dessert a true delight. And let’s not forget the creamy frosting that takes it to a whole new level! I first whipped up these Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies during a rainy afternoon, a perfect excuse to indulge in something sweet and satisfying. Honestly, they disappeared faster than I could take photos!
What I love about these brownies is how they combine the best of both worlds—moist banana bread and decadent brownies. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing friends at a gathering. Plus, they’re made with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. Trust me, once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!
This dessert isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick treat for the kids or someone who loves to bake for special occasions, these brownies fit the bill. So, let’s dive into why this recipe is worth your time and how it can become your new go-to treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are truly something special. Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Quick & Easy: You can whip these up in under an hour, making them perfect for those last-minute cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy trips to the grocery store; you likely have everything you need right in your kitchen.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about these brownies—trust me, they’ll be the star of the show!
- Unbelievably Delicious: The rich chocolate and banana flavor combination is simply irresistible.
What sets these brownies apart is their unique texture. They’re not just dense and fudgy; the banana adds a moistness that makes them melt in your mouth. And let’s talk about that cream cheese frosting! It’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, elevating the dessert to a whole new level of indulgence. Imagine taking a bite and feeling the soft creaminess of the frosting mixed with the rich brownie base—absolute heaven!
These brownies are perfect for impressing guests without any fuss. You can make them ahead of time, and they actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:
- For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (240ml) mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional)
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Feel free to play around with the ingredients! For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or coconut sugar. You can also substitute the chocolate chips for nuts or dried fruit if you prefer. Just remember, the key to great banana bread brownies is using ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor!
Equipment Needed
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer (for the frosting)
If you don’t have a 9×13 inch pan, a similar size will work, but keep an eye on the baking time. I’ve made these brownies in a round cake pan before, and they turned out just fine!
Preparation Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir until well blended.
- Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. It’s okay if it’s not completely dry; you want these brownies to be fudgy!
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If the frosting seems too thick, you can add a teaspoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are a few tips to ensure your banana bread brownies turn out perfectly:
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your brownies will be. You want them to be speckled and soft!
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Start checking around 25 minutes.
- Let Them Cool: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting them cool will enhance the flavors and texture.
- Experiment: Feel free to swap out ingredients. Add nuts for crunch or use different types of chocolate chips for varied flavors!
Variations & Adaptations
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations of the Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies:
- Nutty Banana Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Brownies: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a vegan butter alternative for the frosting.
- Seasonal Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These brownies are best served at room temperature, but they can also be enjoyed slightly chilled. For a delightful presentation, top them with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or some chopped nuts. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
To store, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies without the frosting for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. The flavors actually deepen over time, making the second-day brownies even more delicious!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
These Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies are not only delicious but also packed with some nutritional benefits:
- Bananas provide potassium and dietary fiber, making these brownies a bit healthier than your average dessert.
- The recipe can be adapted to fit gluten-free or dairy-free diets with simple ingredient swaps.
Each brownie offers a balance of carbs, fats, and a touch of protein, making it a satisfying treat after meals or as an afternoon snack. Just keep in mind, moderation is key!
Conclusion
So there you have it—your guide to making the Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. This recipe is definitely worth trying, and I promise, it’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire. Feel free to customize it to your heart’s content and make it your own!
I love how this recipe brings joy and comfort to those who indulge in it. I’d love to hear how your brownies turn out! Please leave a comment, share your variations, or let me know if you have any questions. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
2. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
3. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! They store well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be frozen for up to three months.
4. How can I make the cream cheese frosting dairy-free?
Try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and vegan butter for the frosting.
5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
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Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Ultimate Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and ripe bananas, topped with a creamy frosting that elevates this dessert to a whole new level. Perfect for any occasion, they are quick and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 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)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir until well blended.
- Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or coconut sugar. You can also substitute the chocolate chips for nuts or dried fruit if you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 2
Keywords: banana bread, brownies, dessert, cream cheese frosting, easy recipe
