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
Scale
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
