As I stood in my kitchen last Sunday, the sweet aroma of ripe bananas wafted through the air, sending my senses into a delightful frenzy. That’s when I decided to combine two beloved treats into one incredible recipe: Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting. This irresistible dessert perfectly marries the moist texture of traditional banana bread with the fudgy richness of brownies, creating a truly unforgettable experience for your taste buds. The best part? They’re quick to whip up and vanish almost as fast—making them ideal for any gathering or a late afternoon pick-me-up. Curious to learn how to make these delicious bars that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Banana Bread Brownies so irresistible?
Unique Fusion: This recipe combines two classic favorites, delivering both banana bread’s softness and brownie richness in every bite.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for those busy days, these brownies come together in no time, making dessert creation hassle-free.
Decadent Flavor: Topped with brown butter frosting, each square bursts with the exquisite flavors of chocolate and ripe bananas.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve warm or chilled, and watch as friends and family gather around for a second (or third!) helping.
For more banana-inspired delights, check out my Fudgy Brownies Indulge for a chocolate fix or try the Patriotic Star Brownies for festive gatherings!
Banana Bread Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Sour Cream – Contributes to a rich texture; Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative.
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; coconut oil works as a dairy-free option.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds structure; an egg replacer can be used for vegan options.
• Ripe Bananas – Essential for sweetness and moisture; choose 3-4 overripe bananas for maximum flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; using pure vanilla will result in a more fragrant treat.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base ingredient that contributes to structure; can be swapped with a gluten-free blend.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help brownies rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch; can be omitted or replaced with chocolate chips for extra decadence.
For the Brown Butter Frosting
• Butter – Use unsalted for better control over flavor; remember to brown it to achieve that nutty taste.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; sift it for a smooth texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; stick with pure vanilla for the best results.
• Milk – Adjusts frosting consistency; substitute with dairy-free milk to cater to dietary needs.
Unleash your inner baker with these delightful Banana Bread Brownies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, take a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan and grease it thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent your delicious Banana Bread Brownies from sticking and ensure they come out perfectly!
Step 2: Cream the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, cream together these ingredients on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2–3 minutes. You should see a light and fluffy texture when you’re done.
Step 3: Incorporate Bananas and Vanilla
Next, add the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract to your creamy mixture. With a spatula or your mixer on low speed, combine everything until the bananas and vanilla are fully incorporated. The batter should become a lovely yellow color, filled with banana goodness, ready for the dry ingredients!
Step 4: Mix the Flour and Dry Ingredients
Gradually sprinkle in the all-purpose flour along with the baking soda and salt into the banana mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients in using a spatula, mixing just until no flour streaks remain. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep your Banana Bread Brownies soft and chewy.
Step 5: Add Walnuts (Optional)
If you’re using walnuts, gently fold them into the batter at this point. This step adds a delightful crunch to your Banana Bread Brownies. Once thoroughly mixed, pour the batter into your greased jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The edges of the brownies should appear golden brown and set—watch closely to avoid overbaking!
Step 7: Prepare the Brown Butter Frosting
While the brownies bake, make the brown butter frosting. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it becomes golden brown and releases a nutty aroma—this should take about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and then remove from heat once done.
Step 8: Whisk in the Frosting Ingredients
Immediately whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk into the browned butter. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, which should take just a couple of minutes. Your frosting will have a deliciously rich flavor that perfectly complements the brownies.
Step 9: Spread the Frosting
Once the Banana Bread Brownies are out of the oven and slightly cooled, pour the brown butter frosting over the warm brownies. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly across the top, allowing the warmth of the brownies to help the frosting melt slightly, making it easier to spread.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes before cutting them into squares. This helps them set up for better slicing. Once cooled, enjoy your delectable Banana Bread Brownies, whether warm or at room temperature!
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Brownies
• Use Overripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are key to achieving the best sweetness and moisture in your Banana Bread Brownies. Don’t be shy—use those dark speckled ones!
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in the flour to prevent the brownies from becoming tough. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture that isn’t quite as delightful.
• Watch the Butter: For your brown butter frosting, monitor the butter carefully. It should be golden brown, not burnt; this adds a delightful nutty flavor.
• Cooling Matters: Allow the brownies to cool slightly before cutting. This ensures they hold their shape and maintain that luscious, chewy texture.
• Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra warm, cozy flavor in your Banana Bread Brownies.
Banana Bread Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Banana Bread Brownies! Here are some delightful twists to customize your baking experience.
-
Chocolate Chip Delight: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite that will please any chocoholic.
-
Nutty Option: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds to give your brownies a lovely crunch and a different flavor profile.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic spice that will elevate the flavor of your brownies.
-
Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace butter with a dairy-free spread and use almond milk in the frosting – perfect for your plant-based guests.
-
Tropical Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a pleasing texture and a hint of the tropics; it’s a fun way to switch things up!
-
Fudgy Brownies: For even more indulgence, swap in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to make your brownies richer and fudgier. A chocolate lover’s dream!
-
Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter to the batter before baking and swirl lightly with a knife for a deliciously creamy addition.
-
Zesty Refresh: Mix in the zest of one orange or lemon to brighten up the flavors, creating a refreshing twist on the traditional banana flavor.
For more yummy recipes, don’t forget to check out my Fudgy Brownies Indulge and the festive Patriotic Star Brownies for your next gathering!
Make Ahead Options
Banana Bread Brownies are a fantastic dessert for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy home cooks! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent browning, cover the container tightly to maintain moisture. You can also bake the brownies ahead of time and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply frost with the brown butter frosting and serve. These steps ensure that your Banana Bread Brownies remain just as delicious when you’re ready to indulge!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Brownies
Indulging in warm Banana Bread Brownies is just the beginning; it’s all about crafting a delightful meal experience!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate and banana flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness with strawberries or raspberries to brighten the sweetness of the brownies. Their tartness balances the richness perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the luscious texture, making each bite even more delightful.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a warm drizzle of chocolate sauce not only adds elegance but enhances the chocolatey goodness of the brownies.
- Coffee or Espresso: A steaming cup of coffee or a shot of espresso elevates the dessert experience, bringing out the deep, savory notes of the chocolate and bananas.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the brownies creates an irresistible sweet layer, turning an already amazing dessert into an indulgent treat.
- Chopped Nuts: Consider serving with lightly salted, chopped pecans or almonds on the side for an extra crunch, contrasting beautifully with the soft brownies.
- Hot Chocolate: On a chilly day, why not sip some rich hot chocolate alongside your brownies? The warmth and flavor will cozy up your dessert time!
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea bring a comforting element to the table, pairing nicely with the flavors of banana and chocolate in the brownies.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the brownies for up to a week; just make sure they’re covered to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, safely keeping them for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds—or wrap in aluminum foil and heat in a low oven until warm.
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture in your Banana Bread Brownies, choose overripe bananas. Look for bananas with lots of dark spots on the peel; they will be sweeter and mash more easily, contributing to the moist texture of the brownies.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them deliciously soft and chewy. If you need to keep them longer, placing them in the refrigerator will extend their shelf life to about a week—just be sure to cover them well to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Very much! To freeze your Banana Bread Brownies, first let them cool completely. Then, cut them into individual slices and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method will keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature, or heat them in the microwave for a quick treat.
What if my brownies turn out too dense?
If your Banana Bread Brownies come out dense, it’s possible that you may have overmixed the batter after adding the flour. To get that perfect soft and chewy texture, mix the dry ingredients just until combined. For next time, also ensure you’re using fresh baking soda as it helps with rising!
Are there any dietary considerations when making these brownies?
Definitely! If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make swaps in this recipe. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option, or substitute eggs with an egg replacer to make it vegan-friendly. Additionally, feel free to replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Always check ingredient labels if there are specific allergies like nuts in the optional chopped walnuts.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
To check for doneness, use the classic toothpick test! Insert a toothpick in the center of the brownies around the 20-minute mark. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on the edges, which should be a lovely golden brown. If you see dark spots all over the surface, it’s a sign to take them out before they burn.
These FAQs should guide you through the process and enhance your experience while making these delightful Banana Bread Brownies. Enjoy your baking!
Banana Bread Brownies: The Ultimate Dessert Fusion Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 15x10 inch jelly roll pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract to the mixture and combine until fully incorporated.
- Gradually sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, and salt, folding gently until no flour streaks remain.
- If using walnuts, fold them into the batter, then pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- To make the brown butter frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty (about 5 minutes).
- Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting over the warm brownies and let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy your Banana Bread Brownies warm or at room temperature!