Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of bananas and chocolate. It evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of home-baked treats and cozy afternoons. Today, we’re diving into an indulgent yet simple recipe: Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze. These brownies are rich, moist, and packed with the sweet essence of ripe bananas, perfectly paired with a luscious glaze that takes them to the next level. Whether for an afternoon snack or a dessert to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why It’s My Go-To

Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze are the ultimate treat for a few reasons. First, they combine the best aspects of banana bread and brownies, making them a unique dessert that satisfies both cravings. The texture is delightfully fudgy, and the addition of the vanilla caramel glaze adds a sweet, creamy finish that is hard to resist. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or a cozy night in. You won’t be able to stop at just one!

Your Shopping Guide

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need to grab from the grocery store:

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, melted (one stick)
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed
• Large Egg: 1
• Greek Yogurt: 6 ounces (vanilla, chocolate, or plain; I recommend Chobani Vanilla Chocolate Chunk)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
• Mashed Ripe Bananas: 1 cup (about 1 ½ large or 2 small bananas)
• Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix: 1 box (3.9 ounces; avoid Cook n Serve)
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: ½ teaspoon (optional and to taste)

For the Vanilla Caramel Glaze:

• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, melted (half of 1 stick)
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed
• Cream or Milk: 2 tablespoons
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
• Confectioners Sugar: 1 to 2 cups, sifted (must be sifted)

Recommended Tools

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, consider having these tools handy:

• Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes for mixing ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Whisk: To combine ingredients seamlessly.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients and scraping bowls clean.
• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: The ideal size for these brownies.
• Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the brownies from the pan.

Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze: From Prep to Plate

Let’s get started on these decadent Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly moist.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the brownies out once they’re baked.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Whisk until well combined. Add in the egg, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate instant pudding mix, unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Caramel Glaze

While the brownies cool, prepare the vanilla caramel glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the melted unsalted butter and light brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture starts to bubble. Remove from the heat and add in the cream (or milk) and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.

Step 7: Add the Confectioners Sugar

Gradually whisk in the sifted confectioners sugar until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream or milk; if it’s too thin, add more confectioners sugar.

Step 8: Glaze the Brownies

Once the brownies are completely cool, drizzle the vanilla caramel glaze over the top. You can use a spatula to spread it out evenly or simply let it cascade down the sides for a rustic look.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Using a sharp knife, slice the brownies into squares or rectangles. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re looking to make adjustments based on what you have on hand, consider these swaps:

• Greek Yogurt: You can substitute with sour cream or any other yogurt of your choice.
• Butter: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar or raw sugar can work as alternatives.
• All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour or almond flour can be used, though results may vary.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

For best results, use very ripe bananas; they provide more sweetness and moisture. If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, feel free to increase the cocoa powder by a tablespoon or two. Ensure your brownie batter is not overmixed to maintain a fudgy texture. Enjoy experimenting with different types of chocolate pudding mixes for a unique twist!

Shelf Life & Storage

These Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Is there a way to make these brownies healthier?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, use whole wheat flour, and substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier version.

Can I make these brownies without eggs?

Yes! You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute for the egg.

What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

Because You Liked This

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
• Fudgy Brownies with Mint Frosting
• Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
• Classic Banana Muffins

Hungry for More?

If you loved these Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze, stay tuned for more delicious recipes! From seasonal treats to everyday desserts, there’s always something new to whip up in the kitchen. Keep your bananas ripe and your cravings satisfied, and remember to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!

Banana Bread Brownies with Vanilla Caramel Glaze

Indulge in these rich, moist Banana Bread Brownies topped with a luscious vanilla caramel glaze. Perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter melted
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Light Brown Sugar packed
• 1 Large Egg
• 6 ounces Greek Yogurt vanilla, chocolate, or plain
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup Mashed Ripe Bananas (about 1 ½ large or 2 small)
• 1 box Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix (3.9 ounces; avoid Cook n Serve)
• ¾ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• ½ teaspoon Salt (optional and to taste)

For the Vanilla Caramel Glaze:

• ½ cup Unsalted Butter melted
• 1 cup Light Brown Sugar packed
• 2 tablespoons Cream or Milk
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 to 2 cups Confectioners Sugar sifted (must be sifted)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula
• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper

Method

 

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until well combined. Add the egg, yogurt, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. Step 6: For the glaze, combine melted butter and brown sugar in a saucepan. Stir until bubbling, then remove from heat and add cream and vanilla.
7. Step 7: Gradually whisk in sifted confectioners sugar until the glaze reaches desired consistency.
8. Step 8: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies.
9. Step 9: Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

• Use very ripe bananas for more sweetness and moisture.
• Increase cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Avoid overmixing to maintain a fudgy texture.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; wrap well to prevent freezer burn.