Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, comforting flavors of banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. This delightful twist is perfect for anyone craving a unique dessert that’s easy to make and sure to please a crowd.

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)
• 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. 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 easy removal.
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 well combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing for a tender texture.
6. Step 6: Fold in the chopped walnuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Step 9: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack.
10. Step 10: For the frosting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it turns a light golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
11. Step 11: Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
12. Step 12: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled banana brownies.
13. Step 13: Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest, most flavorful brownies.
• Swap walnuts for pecans or chocolate chips for a different texture and taste.
• For a lighter frosting, try cream cheese frosting instead of browned butter icing.
• To add extra depth, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter.

Storage

Store banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream and will keep the brownies moist.

Do I have to brown the butter for the frosting?

While browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor, you can simply melt it for a milder taste if you’re short on time.

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 135 reviews

These Banana Bread Brownies combine the moistness of classic banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies, topped with a luscious browned butter frosting. Perfect for banana lovers seeking a decadent treat that balances fruity sweetness with a tender crumb and a nutty, creamy finish.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 brownies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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 and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
2. Make the Banana Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing the batter.
4. Add Walnuts (Optional): Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, if using, to incorporate some crunchy texture in your brownies.
5. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Then, remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Prepare the Frosting: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking it until it turns a light golden brown and releases a delicious nutty aroma, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Then whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if necessary to achieve the right consistency.
7. Frost and Serve: Spread the browned butter frosting evenly over the cooled banana brownies. Cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy this delightful fusion of banana bread and brownies with a rich, nutty topping!

Notes

• You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream if preferred, yielding a slightly tangier batter.
• Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and moist.
• The browned butter frosting adds a unique nutty flavor that complements the banana and walnut well.
• Walnuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and texture contrast.
• Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Keywords: banana bread brownies, banana brownies, banana dessert, banana walnut brownies, baked banana dessert