Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, sweet richness of banana bread with the dense, fudgy texture of a classic brownie. Topped with a decadent browned butter frosting, this treat is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth with a unique twist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 cups)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter for frosting
• 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar for frosting
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract for frosting
• 3 tablespoons milk, more if needed for spreading frosting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and uniform.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
5. Step 5: Fold in the chopped walnuts if using, then pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
7. Step 7: To make the frosting, melt ½ cup of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook it until it turns a light golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
8. Step 8: Whisk the browned butter with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable. Add more milk, a little at a time, if the frosting is too thick.
9. Step 9: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled banana brownies. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips for extra richness.
• Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness and moist texture.
• If you prefer a tangier frosting, substitute half the milk with buttermilk or sour cream.

Storage

Store the banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the unfrosted brownies for up to 3 months; thaw and frost them just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will keep the brownies moist while adding a slight tang.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe with lots of brown spots or fully brown skins for maximum sweetness and flavor in your banana bread brownies.

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 147 reviews

These Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of banana bread with the dense, fudgy quality of brownies for a delightful dessert. Made with ripe bananas, sour cream, and a touch of vanilla, these bars are topped with a luscious browned butter frosting that adds a nutty depth of flavor. Perfect for a cozy treat or sharing at gatherings.

• Author: Viktoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 cups)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
• 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons milk, more if needed for spreading

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Banana Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together, then gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts if you choose to include them.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Frosting: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it turns a light golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
5. Frost and Serve: Spread the browned butter frosting evenly over the cooled banana brownies. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Notes

• Using overripe bananas enhances the natural sweetness and moisture of the brownies.
• Walnuts can be omitted or substituted with other nuts like pecans or chopped chocolate for variation.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt and use vegan butter for the frosting.
• Make sure the butter for the frosting is not burnt; a light golden brown color is ideal for the best nutty flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: banana bread brownies, banana dessert, baked banana bars, browned butter frosting, banana walnut brownies