Grandma's Secret: Coconut Macaroon Banana Bread Brownies
Remember those cozy afternoons spent baking with Grandma? This recipe captures that same warmth and love, but with a modern twist. These Coconut Macaroon Banana Bread Brownies are unbelievably easy, unbelievably delicious, and unbelievably addictive – get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!).
Equipment
- 8x8 inch baking pan
Ingredients
Banana Bread Brownies:
- 2 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Coconut Macaroon Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut sweetened or unsweetened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper – this makes cleanup a breeze!
- Mash your bananas in a large bowl. Add the melted butter and brown sugar, and stir until well combined. Don't worry about lumps; it all blends together beautifully.
- Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. This is where you can get creative – a nice, even layer, or a slightly uneven rustic look – it's your call!
- In a small bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Drop spoonfuls of the coconut mixture over the brownie batter. I like to use a spoon to create little dollops of coconutty goodness. Then, gently spread it evenly over the brownie batter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as ovens vary.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. This allows them to set up properly and makes for cleaner slices.
Notes
Feel free to experiment! Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra indulgence. Use different types of coconut – toasted coconut would add a lovely nutty flavor. For a richer brownie, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to the brownie batter for a warm spice note.