Banana Split Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Banana Split Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the fresh, fruity flavors of a banana split. Topped with a creamy banana layer, strawberry preserves, and chopped peanuts, this dessert offers a delightful twist that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 3/4 cup butter, cubed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
• Topping:
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium)
• 1/3 cup strawberry preserves
• 1 large egg, room temperature, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts
• Optional: Sliced bananas and additional chopped peanuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and set aside.
2. Step 2: Melt the chopped unsweetened chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually stir in the chocolate mixture.
4. Step 4: Fold in the flour and chopped maraschino cherries until just combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the mashed banana, strawberry preserves, and lightly beaten egg. Mix until fully incorporated.
6. Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and gently swirl with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the chopped salted peanuts evenly over the top.
8. Step 8: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Step 9: Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing. If desired, garnish with sliced bananas and additional chopped peanuts before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness in the topping.
• Swap maraschino cherries for fresh or frozen cherries if preferred, but reduce added sugar accordingly.
• For a nut-free version, omit the peanuts or replace them with toasted coconut flakes.
• To enhance the banana flavor, add a teaspoon of banana extract to the cream cheese topping.

Storage

Store leftover banana split brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature or warm briefly before serving for the best texture and flavor. You may also freeze the brownies wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these banana split brownies hold up well when made a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator and garnish with fresh bananas just before serving to prevent browning.

Can I substitute the cream cheese topping for something else?

You can replace the cream cheese topping with a thick Greek yogurt or mascarpone mixture if you prefer a lighter option, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the classic recipe.

Banana Split Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 84 reviews

These Banana Split Brownies are a decadent twist on classic brownies, topped with a creamy banana-cream cheese layer, strawberry preserves, and chopped maraschino cherries. Finished with salted peanuts and optional fresh banana slices, they deliver a delightful blend of rich chocolate, fruity sweetness, and crunchy texture in every bite.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Base

• 8 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
• 3/4 cup butter, cubed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

Topping

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium)
• 1/3 cup strawberry preserves
• 1 large egg, room temperature, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts
• Optional: Sliced bananas and additional chopped salted peanuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the unsweetened chocolate and cubed butter together, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time into the melted chocolate mixture, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients and Cherries: Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
4. Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
5. Prepare the Topping: While the brownies bake, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the mashed ripe banana, strawberry preserves, and lightly beaten egg until creamy and well combined.
6. Apply the Topping: When brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the warm brownies. Sprinkle the chopped salted peanuts over the topping.
7. Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes, or until the topping is set and slightly golden around the edges.
8. Cool and Garnish: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, optionally garnish with sliced bananas and extra chopped peanuts before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for better mixing consistency.
• To intensify the banana flavor, use ripe bananas that are heavily spotted.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce sugar in the brownie base by 1/4 cup.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• For an extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top before serving.

Keywords: banana split brownies, chocolate brownies, cream cheese topping, dessert, cherry brownies, easy brownies recipe