Giada Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

I absolutely love banana bread when it has the irresistible texture of brownies.

You get a dessert that’s moist, chewy, and packed with flavor all in one bite!

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best texture and sweetness—they’re the key to making these brownies gold.

I’ve also found that adding a handful of chocolate chips to the banana-chocolate batter makes it even more delectable.

How to Make Giada Banana Bread Brownies

Ingredients

• 2 Bananas (mashed)
• 1/2 cup Almond Butter
• 1/4 cup Coconut Oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup Almond Milk
• 1/4 cup Sugar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder
• 1/4 cup Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Almond Flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Lightly oil an 8×8 inch baking pan with coconut oil.

Line it with a strip of parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, combine mashed bananas, almond butter, coconut oil, almond milk, sugar, and salt.

Mix until it’s smooth with just a few lumps.

Step 3:

Divide the mixture in half.

Mix cocoa powder and chocolate chips into one half.

Stir well!

Step 4:

Pour the plain batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Then, spoon the chocolate batter on top.

Step 5:

Use a knife to swirl through the layers and create a marbled effect.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Ripe Bananas Are Key

Using ripe bananas will make a huge difference in the sweet taste and soft texture of the brownies, so be patient and wait until those bananas are brown and spotty.

Avoid Overmixing the Batter

Make sure you combine the ingredients just until they’re incorporated, because overmixing can make the brownies dense instead of having that perfect balance of fudge and crumb.

Customize with Your Favorite Nuts

Feel free to toss in a handful of your favorite nuts or seeds if you want to add some crunch to the mix; just be sure to chop them finely to keep the texture right.

What to Serve with Giada Banana Bread Brownies

Fresh Berries

Pair your banana bread brownies with a bowl of fresh berries.

Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of color and a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the brownies.

This combination works beautifully as a brunch dessert or an afternoon treat.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic addition that transforms your banana bread brownies into a comforting and luscious dessert.

The cool creaminess of the ice cream contrasts with the warm, moist texture of the brownies, creating a delightful experience.

You can’t go wrong with this pairing.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Try drizzling some salted caramel sauce over your banana bread brownies for a gourmet touch.

The rich and buttery notes of caramel with a hint of salt enhance the flavors of the brownies, adding complexity to the dessert.

It’s an excellent option for a dinner party or special occasion.

Spicy Chai Latte

Serve your banana bread brownies with a steaming cup of spicy chai latte.

The aromatic spices in the chai create a warm and cozy feeling, complementing the comforting flavors of the brownies.

This pairing is perfect for a chilly evening at home.

Cheese Plate

Consider serving a small cheese plate with savory cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda alongside your banana bread brownies.

This might sound unusual, but the sharpness and savory quality of the cheese can balance the sweetness of the dessert.

It offers an interesting and sophisticated pairing for adventurous food lovers.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Flours

You can switch almond flour with all-purpose or whole wheat flour if you prefer a more traditional texture.

Gluten-free flour blends can also work well for those avoiding gluten.

Nut Butter Options

Feel free to replace almond butter with peanut or cashew butter, creating a different flavor profile that can be fun to experiment with!

Sweetener Choices

If you’re looking for a different type of sweetness, substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup.

You might need to adjust the quantity slightly based on your taste preference.

Dairy Alternatives

For a dairy-free option, almond milk can be substituted with oat or soy milk without losing creaminess.

This swap works beautifully and ensures the dish is still rich and moist.

Adding More Texture

Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.

These additions can bring a delightful texture that contrasts well with the softness of the brownie.

Extra Flavors

Adding a teaspoon of vanilla or cinnamon can heighten the aroma and flavor of your brownies!

These little touches make a big difference and can turn a good dish into something special!

How to Store Leftover Banana Bread Brownies

Storing banana bread brownies can make your delicious treats last longer, and it’s easy!

To keep them fresh on the counter, use an airtight container to hold moisture.

Placing a paper towel inside the container can help absorb any excess moisture.

If you want to extend their shelf life, the fridge is your friend.

Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out or absorbing unwanted flavors.

Then, place them in a sealed container or plastic bag before refrigerating.

For long-term storage, the freezer works wonders.

Wrap the brownies individually in plastic wrap and layer them inside a freezer-safe bag.

You can pull one out whenever you crave a quick treat.

Defrost them at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing Batter

You might think mixing more will result in a smoother batter, but too much mixing can make the brownies dense and tough.

It’s important to mix until just combined to maintain a light texture.

Inaccurate Ingredient Measurements

Using the wrong type or amount of any ingredient can affect the final product significantly.

Make sure to measure the almond flour and oats accurately since they are key to the texture.

Skipping Cooling Time

It can be tempting to dive right into those delicious-smelling brownies straight from the oven!

However, cutting them too soon can cause crumbling and a messy presentation.

Let them cool completely for the best results.