Introduction

These Banana Bread Brownies Bars combine the best of both worlds: the moist, tender crumb of banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. Topped with a luscious brown butter glaze, they make an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

The image shows nine square pieces of banana cake arranged in three layers on a white plate. Each piece has two layers: a light brown, moist cake base with visible tiny banana bits and a smooth, white frosting layer on top. Three banana slices are placed on the white plate around the cake pieces. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
½ cup butter, softened
2 large eggs
3–4 ripe bananas, mashed
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon salt
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Mini milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
4 tablespoons butter (for the glaze)
2 cups powdered sugar (for the glaze)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the glaze)
1–2 tablespoons milk (for the glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (≈190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Add the flour, baking soda, and salt; mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened and incorporated. If you’re using chopped nuts or chocolate chips, stir them in now.
Step 5: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 23–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: As the bars are baking, start making the brown butter glaze: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and let it cook until it develops a light golden-brown color and a nutty aroma. Remove from heat.
Step 7: Immediately whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach a spreadable consistency.
Step 8: As soon as the bars come out of the oven (while still warm), pour the warm glaze over them and spread gently with the back of a spoon or a spatula.
Step 9: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

For extra texture, fold in a handful of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips before baking.
You can substitute the Greek yogurt with full-fat sour cream for a slightly tangier taste.
If you prefer a stronger banana flavor, use very ripe bananas with brown spots.
To make the glaze dairy-free, use a plant-based butter and milk alternative.

Storage

Store the banana bread brownies bars 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. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back some softness before serving.

How to Serve

A white plate holds four square pieces of banana cake with a light brown, moist texture dotted with small banana bits inside. Each piece has one thick, smooth, creamy white frosting layer on top. Some fresh banana slices are placed beside the cake squares on the plate. The plate rests on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt as a substitute, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker texture which helps keep the bars moist.

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. They are done when the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.