If you’re looking for a dessert that magically blends the comforting flavors of ripe bananas with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies, you absolutely must try this Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe. It’s like the best of both worlds rolled into one irresistible treat that’s soft, moist, and topped with an outrageously delicious, nutty brown butter frosting that you won’t be able to get enough of. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just because you deserve a special something, these brownies promise to wow every bite of the way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe are wonderfully simple yet essential to achieve that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component, from the bananas to the brown butter, plays a key role in crafting those luscious, tender brownies and the irresistible frosting that crowns them.
- 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar: Adds necessary sweetness and helps with the moist texture of the brownies.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream): Brings moisture and a subtle tanginess that enhances the banana flavor.
- 1/2 cup softened butter: Renders the batter rich and tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
- 3-4 ripe bananas (mashed): The star of the show, delivering natural sweetness and that iconic banana bread flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the entire flavor profile with warm, inviting notes.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure to the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives just the right lift to keep the brownies tender but not cakey.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 4 tablespoons butter (for frosting): Turned into brown butter for a deep, nutty frosting base.
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds warmth and complexity to the frosting.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for frosting): Adjusts the frosting to the perfect consistency.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your brownies don’t stick and come out in perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, beat in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. This combination creates a moist and flavorful base that’s the heart of the Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Batter
Next, add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is moistened—overmixing can toughen the brownies. If you want a little crunch, this is also the time to fold in some walnuts.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top to ensure even baking. Bake for 23 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. While the brownies bake, you can move on to making the luscious brown butter frosting.
Step 5: Make the Brown Butter Frosting
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter and allow it to simmer until it turns a delicate golden brown with a nutty aroma. This step is crucial for the deep flavor that defines this frosting. Be sure to watch carefully so the butter doesn’t burn! Remove from heat immediately once browned.
Step 6: Whisk the Frosting
To the warm brown butter, whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until silky smooth. Add more powdered sugar or milk as needed to reach a perfect spreading consistency. When the brownies are still warm out of the oven, pour the frosting over them and spread gently with the back of a spoon for an even, glossy finish.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe from delicious to downright stunning. Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans right after frosting to add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few chocolate shavings can also enhance both the look and the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a lighter option, serve these brownies alongside fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. The contrast of cool, creamy sides with the warm, rich brownies is absolutely heavenly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe into bite-sized squares for a party platter or layering them in a trifle with whipped cream and bananas for a stunning dessert centerpiece. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment paper tied with twine makes for charming gifts or party favors guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent the frosting from drying out or picking up other flavors.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you want to warm your brownies, place individual pieces on a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 seconds. The warmth will revive that melty, soft texture and release the enticing aroma of bananas and brown butter.
FAQs
Can I use something other than Greek yogurt or sour cream?
Absolutely! You can substitute with buttermilk or even a mild cream cheese, but Greek yogurt or sour cream give the perfect tang and moisture balance that really brings out the banana flavor.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
For best results, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots. They’re sweeter and softer, which makes the brownies moist and flavorful. If you don’t have ripe ones, try ripening them quickly by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon if needed to help with the texture.
Is the brown butter frosting difficult to make?
Not at all! The trickiest part is watching the butter carefully to avoid burning it. Once you get a nutty aroma and a golden color, the rest is just whisking in powdered sugar and milk. It’s simple but adds incredible flavor.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Definitely! Walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips are fantastic additions to the batter and give a nice textural contrast. Just fold them in with the flour mixture before baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe that makes it a perfect anytime dessert. The combination of classic comfort flavors with a gourmet twist is pure magic, and it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, bake a batch, share with loved ones, and enjoy every delicious moment!
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Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist richness of banana bread with the fudgy indulgence of brownies, topped with a luscious brown butter frosting. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, this recipe yields a tray of irresistible bars that bake up soft and flavorful with a nutty, creamy glaze.
Ingredients
Banana Brownies
- 1–1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3–4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Brown Butter Frosting
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently just until the batter is moistened; do not overmix to maintain a tender texture. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts now.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 23 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. While baking, start preparing the frosting.
- Make Brown Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and bring it to a simmer. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until it turns a delicate brown color and emits a nutty aroma—be careful not to burn it. Remove from heat immediately once browned.
- Prepare Frosting: Whisk the browned butter into a bowl with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or milk to thin as needed.
- Frost the Brownies: Pour the warm brown butter frosting evenly over the warm banana bread brownies. Spread gently with the back of a spoon to cover the surface. Allow to cool before cutting and serving.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the brownies moist and tender.
- The brown butter frosting can be reheated gently if it becomes too thick before spreading.
- Optionally, add chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
