Banana Brownies with Chocolate Glaze

Banana Brownies with Chocolate Glaze are the ultimate fusion of comfort food and decadent dessert. This easy-to-make treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of chocolate, resulting in a moist, flavorful brownie. Topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon snack, a potluck, or a special treat to share with friends and family. The combination of soft, chewy brownies with a smooth chocolate topping makes each bite irresistible. If you love bananas and chocolate, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Not only does this recipe offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies, but it also allows you to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. The bananas add a moistness to the brownies that make them even more delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that’s sure to impress. Plus, the chocolate glaze adds an extra layer of richness that makes these brownies truly indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Banana Flavored Brownies

The addition of ripe bananas gives these brownies a unique flavor and a naturally sweet taste that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.

2. Quick and Easy

With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious brownies in the oven and ready in no time.

3. Moist and Chewy

The bananas help keep the brownies moist and chewy, ensuring that each bite is satisfying and tender.

4. Chocolate Glaze for Extra Indulgence

The homemade chocolate glaze adds a rich, smooth finish that takes these brownies to the next level of deliciousness.

5. Perfect for Using Overripe Bananas

This recipe is a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas that are too soft for eating but perfect for baking.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• Mashed ripe bananas
• Butter, melted
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Salt
• Chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• Semisweet chocolate chips
• Butter

Variations

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in some peanut butter before baking for a delicious twist.
• Double Chocolate Brownies: Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Banana Nut Brownies: For more crunch, use your favorite nuts, like pecans or almonds, in place of walnuts.
• Vegan Option: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) to make the brownies vegan.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, mix together mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using, for added crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter over low heat. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

Step 6: Glaze the Brownies

Once the brownies have cooled, pour the chocolate glaze over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Let the Glaze Set

Allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes before cutting the brownies into squares and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because they’re naturally sweeter and more flavorful.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid dense brownies.
• Make Sure the Brownies are Cooled: Let the brownies cool before adding the glaze, or the glaze will melt into the brownies instead of setting on top.
• Customize the Glaze: If you prefer a richer chocolate glaze, you can add a little more chocolate and butter to your mixture.

How to Serve

These banana brownies with chocolate glaze are perfect served on their own as a sweet treat. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. For an afternoon snack, serve with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to any dessert table or picnic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftovers with the glaze, be sure to let them sit for a few minutes before storing to avoid the glaze sticking to the container.

Freezing

You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

Reheating

To reheat the brownies, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these without walnuts?

Yes, you can skip the walnuts or substitute them with any other nuts of your choice.

2. Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

3. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips can be added to the batter for a double-chocolate treat.

4. How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.

5. Can I make this recipe without the chocolate glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a more simple banana brownie, or use a powdered sugar glaze instead.

6. How do I make the chocolate glaze thicker?

For a thicker glaze, add more chocolate chips or reduce the butter slightly.

7. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.

8. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, using brown sugar will add a richer flavor, but it will slightly change the texture of the brownies.

9. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas will work just as well as fresh ones.

10. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet for the glaze?

Yes, milk chocolate will work for a sweeter glaze, but semisweet chocolate provides a more balanced flavor.

Conclusion

Banana Brownies with Chocolate Glaze are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the soft, moist texture of banana bread and the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies. With the perfect balance of sweetness from the bananas and the indulgent chocolate glaze, these brownies are a sure way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress or simply want to use up overripe bananas, this recipe is easy, quick, and delicious. Enjoy every bite!

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