How do you make banana bread brownies from scratch?

To make banana bread brownies, you prepare two separate batters—one with mashed bananas and one with cocoa and chocolate—then swirl them together in a baking pan before baking. The result is a marbled, moist dessert with the richness of brownies and the flavor of banana bread. It's perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes a unique twist on classic treats.

Can I make banana bread in a brownie pan?

Yes, you can absolutely make banana bread in a brownie pan! A standard 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch square pan works well if you want thinner, faster-baking slices. Just keep an eye on the bake time—it’s typically shorter than with a loaf pan. This method is especially useful if you're going for banana bread brownies or want a snack-style version of banana bread.

Can you make banana bread in a brownie pan instead of a loaf pan?

Definitely. Making banana bread in a brownie pan is a great way to reduce baking time and create more surface area for a slightly crispier top. If you're aiming for a recipe like banana bread brownies, using a brownie pan enhances the marbling and gives you neat, cuttable squares—perfect for sharing or meal prepping.

What are ‘A Beautiful Mess’ banana bread brownies?

While “A Beautiful Mess” is a popular lifestyle blog, their banana bread brownies are known for being rich, rustic, and easy to make, often incorporating a fudge-like brownie base with mashed bananas swirled in. For a boost, consider adding a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder to the batter—it's a simple way to enhance nutrition without compromising taste. If you're inspired by their aesthetic, aim for a marbled look and cozy presentation. Our version of banana bread brownies captures that same spirit—simple ingredients, beautiful results.

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe | Easy & Budget-Friendly

Description

These Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, fruity flavor of classic banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies—all in one irresistible treat. They’re easy to whip up with pantry staples and make a perfect way to use up ripe bananas.

Ingredients

Scale

¾ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup butter, melted

1 ½ cups granulated sugar (adjust if bananas are very ripe)

3 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ cup chopped bittersweet chocolate or chocolate chips

2 very ripe bananas, mashed

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between two bowls.
Into one bowl, stir in the cocoa powder and chopped chocolate. Into the other, stir in the mashed bananas.
Pour the banana batter into the prepared pan. Add spoonfuls of the chocolate batter over the top.
Use a butter knife to swirl the batters gently for a marbled effect.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
Cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares.

Notes

Substitute bittersweet chocolate with semisweet or dark chocolate chips if preferred.

For extra richness, add a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 240 kcal
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 125mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: banana bread brownies, fudgy banana brownies, banana swirl brownies, easy banana dessert, ripe banana recipes