Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I adore these Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze! They’re a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, combining the rich, moist texture of brownies with the sweet, comforting flavor of bananas. Perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet treat to impress your loved ones, these brownies are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
These Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze are a game-changer for busy days. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them a quick solution for unexpected guests or a sweet craving. The rich, chocolatey flavor paired with the sweetness of ripe bananas creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, the glaze adds a delightful finish, making these brownies not just a treat, but a true indulgence!
Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making your brownies rich and flavorful.
- Melted Butter: This adds a luscious richness to the brownies. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works well, but brown sugar can enhance the flavor with its caramel notes.
- Large Egg: This binds the ingredients together and helps the brownies rise. For a vegan option, try using a flax egg.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor, making everything taste more delicious.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your brownies. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the brownies rise, giving them a light texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Chocolate Chips: These add a delightful chocolatey burst. Feel free to use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips!
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for the glaze, it creates that sweet, smooth finish.
- Milk: This helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency. You can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Vanilla Extract (for glaze): A touch of vanilla in the glaze ties everything together beautifully.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking. While the oven heats up, grease your baking pan to ensure the brownies come out easily. A well-greased pan prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Prepare the Bananas
Next, grab those ripe bananas! Use a fork to mash them in a bowl until smooth. Ripe bananas are key here; they’re sweeter and softer, which adds moisture to your brownies. The more speckles, the better—those brown spots mean maximum flavor!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In the same bowl, add melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will be the heart of your Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze, creating a rich and flavorful base.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking the dry ingredients separately ensures they’re evenly distributed. This step helps your brownies rise perfectly, giving them that delightful texture we all love!
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mix to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix! Finally, fold in those chocolate chips for a delicious chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your brownies are ready to shine!
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the brownies are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. This glaze will add a sweet, glossy finish to your brownies. Make sure it’s smooth and pourable, but not too runny!
Step 8: Drizzle and Cool
Once the brownies are out of the oven, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. After they’ve cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top. This final touch makes them irresistible!
Tips for Success
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for the best texture.
- Check your brownies a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
- Let the brownies cool completely before adding the glaze for a beautiful finish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Pan: A 9×9 inch pan works perfectly. You can also use an 8×8 inch pan for thicker brownies.
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium-sized bowls for mixing. A large bowl can double as a serving dish!
- Fork: Great for mashing bananas. A potato masher works too!
- Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients. A fork can do the job in a pinch.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in chocolate chips and spreading the batter evenly.
Variations of Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the brownies.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in some creamy peanut butter before baking for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter to create a delicious vegan treat.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that enhances the banana taste.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
- Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Drizzle extra glaze on top for an eye-catching finish.
- Cut into smaller squares for a perfect bite-sized snack at gatherings.
FAQs about Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work great in these Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze. Just thaw them and mash them up. They’ll be just as sweet and moist!
How should I store the brownies?
Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies are perfect for making ahead. You can bake them a day or two in advance and glaze them just before serving for that fresh touch.
What can I substitute for the egg?
If you need an egg substitute, a flax egg works wonderfully! Just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Can I add nuts to the brownies?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips for a tasty twist!
Summarizing the Joy of Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze
There’s something truly magical about these Banana Bread Brownies with Glaze. They bring together the comforting flavors of home-baked goodness and the joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones. Each bite is a delightful blend of moist banana and rich chocolate, topped with a glossy glaze that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them after a long day or serving them at a gathering, these brownies create moments of happiness. They remind us that even in our busy lives, we can take a moment to savor something delicious and share a smile with those we care about.
PrintBanana Bread Brownies with Glaze: A Delightful Twist!
A delicious twist on traditional banana bread, these brownies are moist, rich, and topped with a sweet glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.
- Add melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the brownies are done, let them cool before drizzling the glaze on top.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
- These brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
