Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on two classic treats. They’re soft and cake-like like banana bread, but cut and served like brownies, with a rich banana flavor and a tender crumb. What sets them apart is the brown butter frosting—a nutty, sweet glaze that melts into the warm bars and takes them to the next level. These are perfect for potlucks, brunches, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread Brownies:
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (more as needed)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the sour cream (or yogurt) and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in chopped walnuts if using.
3. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 23–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the frosting.
4. Make the Brown Butter Frosting
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from heat and immediately whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
5. Frost the Brownies
- Pour the warm frosting over the warm banana bread brownies.
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.
Tips & Variations:
- Add chocolate chips: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a richer treat.
- Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and yogurt alternatives.
- Add spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth.
- Freeze for later: These bars freeze beautifully—wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Moist and flavorful: Thanks to the bananas and sour cream.
- Easy to make: No mixer required, just a few bowls and a whisk.
- Crowd-pleasing: A unique dessert that everyone will ask for again.
- Perfect for ripe bananas: A creative alternative to classic banana bread.
These Banana Bread Brownies are the best of both worlds—comforting, sweet, and just indulgent enough. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them with a cup of coffee, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking rotation. Want to elevate them even more? Try topping with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert twist.