Brownies or banana muffins? Why not both? Imagine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies combined with the sweet, moist texture of banana muffins—all without starting from scratch! If you’ve got a box of brownie mixes and a couple of ripe bananas, you’re just a few steps away from creating a crowd-pleasing treat that looks gourmet but requires minimal effort.
This recipe is perfect for baking enthusiasts short on time, health-conscious bakers looking for a twist, and food bloggers wanting to impress followers with an easy yet decadent recipe. Read on to learn how to make this ultimate mash-up dessert and explore tips to customize it to match your flavour cravings.
Why Use a Brownie Mix?
Before we start the recipe, let’s discuss why brownie mixes are the best foundation for this delectable creation. While some purists might prefer baking from scratch, high-quality box mixes can yield consistently delicious results with minimal effort.
Here are some reasons why a mix is a smart choice:
Time-Saver: No need to measure cocoa powder, sugar, or flour—pour, mix, and go.
Cost-Effective: Boxed brownie mixes are affordable, and you likely already have the other ingredients.
Customizable: The beauty of a mix is that you can still add personal touches! Bananas are only the beginning of endless possibilities.
Combining a store-bought brownie mix with fresh, ripe bananas elevates a basic recipe into something extraordinary.
The Benefits of Adding Bananas
Bananas—and especially overripe ones—are a magical ingredient in baking. Here’s why they work so perfectly in this recipe:
Natural Sweetener: Ripe bananas add a natural sweetness and can even allow you to reduce additional sugar.
Moisture Booster: They make the muffins incredibly soft and moist, eliminating that dense or dry texture some boxed brownies might have.
Nutrient-Packed: Bananas add potassium, fibre, and vitamins to your recipe, giving it a slightly healthier edge.
If you’re looking for a way to use those spotted bananas on your countertop, this is the recipe for you.
The Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of brownie banana muffins.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of brownie mix (pick your favourite brand)
- 2 overripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for a richer flavour)
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional additions:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips for extra decadence
- A dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon for a flavour twist
Equipment:
- Muffin tin and liners
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven.
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mash the bananas.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. A few small lumps are okay—they add texture to your muffins.
3. Combine wet ingredients.
Add the eggs, oil (or butter), and water to the mashed bananas. Whisk until everything is well incorporated.
4. Add the brownie mix.
Gradually fold in the brownie mix. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. You can also toss in any optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.
5. Portion the batter.
Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. The muffins will rise slightly as they bake.
6. Bake to perfection.
Place the muffin tin in the centre rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of a muffin comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and enjoy.
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm for a gooey brownie experience or at room temperature for a firmer texture.
Pro Tips for Perfect Muffins
To make sure your brownie banana muffins turn out flawlessly, here are a few tips from the pros:
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better. Spotted or black bananas will bring the most flavour and moisture.
Customize Freely: Mix in your favourite toppings or spices. Coconut flakes, peanut butter swirls, or even a pinch of sea salt can add unique flair.
Storage: Leftover muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownie banana muffins are so much more than a quick dessert. Here’s why they stand out:
Family-Friendly: Kids love this chocolatey treat, and parents appreciate the hidden banana nutrition.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These muffins are versatile enough to serve as a grab-and-go breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a potluck dessert.
Instagram-Worthy: The blend of brownie richness and muffin fluffiness makes for beautifully photogenic treats!
Combining creativity with the ease of a boxed mix allows you to impress your friends, family, or social media audience with minimal stress.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Want a healthier spin? Swap the oil for applesauce or Greek yoghurt. Do you prefer a deeper chocolate flavour? Use a dark chocolate brownie mix.
Whatever your preference, this recipe makes baking accessible, fun, and drool-worthy.
Are you ready to try a slice of chocolate banana heaven? Roll up your sleeves and get baking today!
If you’re a food blogger or baking enthusiast, don’t forget to share your results on social media and tag us so we can see your creations!
