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Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

4.8 from 354 reviews

These Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, flavorful richness of banana bread with the dense, fudgy texture of classic brownies. Enhanced with a nutty browned butter frosting and optional walnuts for crunch, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful twist on traditional banana bread.

Ingredients

Scale

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 ensure the brownies won’t stick after baking.
  2. Make the Banana Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts gently to distribute evenly.
  3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack.
  4. Prepare the Frosting: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until it turns a light golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the browned butter to cool slightly. Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
  5. Frost and Serve: Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the browned butter frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares or bars, then serve and enjoy this decadent twist on a traditional banana bread.

Notes

  • You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor and added protein.
  • Ensure bananas are ripe with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
  • Brown butter frosting adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
  • Store brownies 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 brownies, browned butter frosting, walnut banana brownies