Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

If there’s one dessert that never fails to bring a smile, it’s these Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies. Combining the comforting warmth of banana bread with the indulgent depth of chocolate brownies, this recipe offers a moist, fudgy treat packed with rich cocoa and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. The result is an irresistible fusion that feels both homey and decadent, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a sneaky slice yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a superstar role in bringing together the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and richness in your Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies.

• 150g unsalted butter: adds creaminess and a tender crumb while helping melt the chocolate beautifully.
• 150g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa): delivers a deep, bittersweet chocolate flavor that makes these brownies truly indulgent.
• 2 large, very ripe bananas (about 250g mashed): provide natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring a soft, fudgy texture.
• 200g caster sugar: balances the bitterness of dark chocolate and adds subtle sweetness.
• 2 large free-range eggs: bind the ingredients and help create that chewy, dense brownie consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances the overall flavor and adds a lovely aromatic hint.
• 125g plain flour: forms the structure without weighing down the batter.
• 30g unsweetened cocoa powder: intensifies the chocolate flavor and gives the brownies that rich color.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: gives just enough lift to keep the brownies tasty and not too dense.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: brightens and balances the sweetness.
• 100g chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional): add extra texture and bursts of flavor.

How to Make Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan/Gas Mark 4) and line an 8×8 inch square baking tin with baking parchment, leaving some overhang to lift the brownies out easily later. This little prep step ensures a smooth baking process and a neat finish.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Using a bain-marie or microwave, gently melt the butter with the dark chocolate until smooth and glossy. This rich base is the secret to the moist, fudgy texture that sets these brownies apart, so take your time and stir often for a perfect blend.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas with a fork until mostly smooth. Those little lumps are welcome because they give a wonderful texture to the final brownies and boost the banana flavor naturally.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add caster sugar to the mashed bananas and whisk them together. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract, then pour in the cooled chocolate and butter mixture, combining everything into a luscious, chocolatey batter.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt over the wet mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix because we want to maintain that tender fudginess.

Step 6: Add Optional Extras

If you love a little crunch or extra melty chocolate, fold in chocolate chips or chopped walnuts now. They add bursts of flavor and texture in every bite of your Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared tin, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and beginning to pull away from the pan but the center still feels slightly soft. This is the magic moment when fudgy meets fluffy.

Step 8: Cool Thoroughly

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin before lifting them out with the parchment. Patience here is key to cutting neat squares that hold their fudgy shape without crumbling.

How to Serve Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa for a rustic look, or add a dollop of whipped cream to bring a light, creamy contrast to the rich chocolate. Fresh berries or banana slices on the side can also brighten the plate and complement the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce pairs wonderfully with these brownies, elevating them to an indulgent dessert experience. For something less sweet, a cup of strong coffee or black tea balances the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies as part of a dessert platter alongside bite-sized fruit tarts or nuts. You could also sandwich a layer of peanut butter or cream cheese frosting between two brownie squares for a decadent twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their fudgy texture and keeps them tasting fresh, ready to enjoy whenever you fancy a rich treat.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months, so you can enjoy homemade Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies anytime you want without fuss.

Reheating

To warm frozen brownies, allow them to thaw at room temperature, then zap for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to revive that just-baked softness perfectly. Avoid overheating to keep that fudgy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened?

Yes, but unsweetened cocoa powder is preferred for the rich, intense chocolate flavor. Using sweetened might alter the balance of sweetness in your brownies.

What if I don’t have very ripe bananas?

For best results, use very ripe bananas because they are sweeter and softer, which helps create that moist texture. If your bananas aren’t ripe, you can microwave them briefly to soften, then mash well.

Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

You can, but using dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa gives the brownies a deep, rich flavor and balances the banana’s sweetness. Milk chocolate will make the brownies sweeter and less intense.

Is it necessary to let the brownies cool completely?

Absolutely! Cooling lets the brownies set perfectly, making for cleaner cuts and the perfect fudgy texture. Cutting too soon can cause them to crumble or fall apart.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute plain flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend evenly to maintain texture. Be sure to check your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies that makes them an instant favorite whether for a casual snack or an elegant dessert. The wonderful marriage of naturally sweet bananas and rich dark chocolate creates a treat that’s as comforting as it is luxurious. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—you’ll find yourself reaching for another slice before you know it!

Print