Banana Split Brownies
Banana Split Brownies
There’s something magical about biting into a warm, fudgy brownie that tastes like your favorite childhood treat—but with a twist. These Banana Split Brownies are my latest obsession, and I can’t wait to share them with you. Imagine rich chocolate brownies infused with sweet mashed bananas, topped with creamy strawberry frosting, and finished off with dollops of whipped cream and a cherry on top. It’s like dessert had a party, and everyone was invited!
What Is Banana Split Brownies?
Banana Split Brownies are a delicious fusion of two classics: homemade brownies and the iconic banana split. Instead of ice cream, you get moist, tender brownies made with ripe mashed bananas that add natural sweetness and a hint of banana flavor. The frosting is where it gets fun—strawberry cream cheese buttercream that mimics the tangy-sweet vibe of real strawberry syrup. And yes, we don’t skimp on the toppings: crushed walnuts, fluffy whipped cream, and maraschino cherries bring that authentic ice cream shop feel right to your kitchen counter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a dessert that feels indulgent but isn’t complicated, this recipe hits the spot. It’s made entirely from scratch, so every bite bursts with fresh flavor—no boxed mixes or shortcuts here. Plus, using up overripe bananas has never tasted better! These brownies come together in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute guests or when you need a sweet fix after dinner.
Kids love helping decorate them too—they think it’s a game to pile on the whipped cream and nuts. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t light up when they see a slice topped with a bright red cherry? Whether you’re serving these at a summer potluck or enjoying them straight out of the fridge, they always disappear fast.
What makes this recipe extra special is how versatile it is. You can adjust the frosting color, swap the jam for raspberry if you prefer, or even go nut-free if needed. But honestly, the classic combo just works. Every time I make them, I’m reminded why desserts should feel joyful—not stressful.
How to Make Banana Split Brownies
Quick Overview
Baking these brownies is surprisingly simple. Start by mixing wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, mashed bananas), then fold in drys (flour, cocoa, leaveners). Bake until set, cool completely, then whip up a quick frosting while they rest. Total active time is about 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium ripe bananas)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup seedless strawberry jam
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Chopped walnuts, whipped cream, and maraschino cherries (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter for about 30 seconds until smooth.
- Add sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add flour and cocoa powder, mixing just until no streaks remain—don’t overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Let brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting—this prevents melting.
- While cooling, prepare frosting: In another bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in strawberry jam, milk, and a drop of red food coloring (if using). Beat for 4–5 minutes until creamy and spreadable.
- Once brownies are completely cool, spread frosting evenly over the top.
- Top with whipped cream, chopped walnuts, and a cherry for that classic banana split look. Slice and serve!
What to Serve It With
These brownies are bold enough to stand alone as dessert, but they pair wonderfully with lighter meals too. Try serving them alongside grilled chicken or stuffed burgers for a balanced family dinner. They also shine at potlucks—everyone will ask for the recipe! For a festive touch, serve with a side of vanilla ice cream; the contrast of cold and warm is heavenly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Banana Split Brownies
- Use very ripe bananas: Their sweetness and soft texture are key to moist brownies. If they’re spotted or slightly mushy, peel and mash immediately—it’s perfect!
- Don’t skip the cooling step: Frosting melts if applied too soon. Patience pays off with clean slices.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you like less sugary frosting, reduce powdered sugar to 3½ cups and increase milk slightly.
- Make ahead friendly: Bake the brownies without frosting, wrap tightly, and refrigerate up to 2 days before adding frosting and toppings.
- Storage hack: Freeze unbaked batter in portions for a quick grab-and-bake treat later.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Because of the cream cheese frosting, store leftover brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Never microwave—they’ll become soggy. Instead, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Banana Split Brownies aren’t just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavors, memories, and little moments that make life sweeter. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy night in or bringing them to a backyard barbecue, they’ll turn heads and spark smiles. And the best part? You’re not just baking brownies—you’re making joy, one slice at a time.
Banana Split Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Using an electric mixer, beat butter at medium speed for 30 seconds.
- Mix in sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt.
- Mix in eggs and mashed banana.
- Beat in flour and cocoa powder.
- Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake brownies for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow brownies to completely cool before adding frosting.
- While brownies are cooling, use an electric mixer to beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, strawberry jam and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread frosting over cooled brownies. Garnish with whipped cream, chopped walnuts and a cherry if desired.
