If you love banana bread and brownies, get ready for the best of both worlds! These Banana Bread Brownies are incredibly moist, rich, and packed with banana flavor, all topped with a buttery brown sugar frosting. Whether for a snack, dessert, or special occasion, they’re guaranteed to impress!
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Super Moist & Tender – Thanks to sour cream and mashed bananas, these brownies stay deliciously soft.
✔ Easy to Make – Just mix, bake, and frost! No complicated steps.
✔ Irresistible Brown Butter Frosting – The rich, nutty flavor of browned butter takes these brownies to another level.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, snacks, or a sweet treat after dinner!
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
✅ 2 eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together.
✅ 3 ripe bananas, mashed – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
✅ 1½ cups sugar – For the perfect level of sweetness.
✅ 1 cup sour cream – Ensures ultra-moist brownies.
✅ ½ cup butter, softened – Adds richness.
✅ 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the banana flavor.
✅ 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for the brownies.
✅ 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps them rise.
✅ ¾ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
✅ ½ cup walnuts, chopped – Adds a delicious crunch!
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
✅ ½ cup butter – The key to a rich, nutty frosting.
✅ 3 cups powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet topping.
✅ 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds warmth.
✅ 3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Batter
1️⃣ In a large bowl, beat together:
✔ Sugar (1½ cups)
✔ Sour cream (1 cup)
✔ Butter (½ cup, softened)
✔ Eggs (2 large)
Mix until smooth and creamy.
2️⃣ Blend in:
✔ Mashed bananas (3 large)
✔ Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons)
3️⃣ Add dry ingredients:
✔ Flour (2 cups)
✔ Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
✔ Salt (¾ teaspoon)
Mix for 1 minute until fully combined. Stir in ½ cup chopped walnuts.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
1️⃣ In a large saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat. Cook until it turns a medium brown color (be careful not to burn it!).
2️⃣ Remove from heat and whisk in:
✔ Powdered sugar (3 cups)
✔ Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons)
✔ Milk (3 tablespoons, added gradually)
Whisk until smooth and spreadable.
Step 5: Frost & Cool
1️⃣ Pour the warm frosting over the warm banana brownies. Spread evenly.
2️⃣ Let them cool completely before slicing into squares.
Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success
✔ Use Ripe Bananas – The riper, the better! Brown, spotty bananas add the most flavor.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the brownies dense instead of soft.
✔ Watch the Butter While Browning – Stir constantly to prevent burning.
✔ Adjust Frosting Consistency – If too thick, add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
✔ For Extra Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
✔ Classic & Simple – Enjoy as-is for a perfect snack.
✔ With Ice Cream – Pair with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
✔ Drizzled with Caramel – Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra decadence.
✔ With Coffee or Tea – A perfect afternoon treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Without Nuts?
Yes! Simply omit the walnuts, and they’ll still be delicious.
How Should I Store Banana Bread Brownies?
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to a week for extra freshness.
Freezing: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes! Plain Greek yogurt works as a great substitute.
Why Is My Frosting Too Thick?
If it thickens too much before spreading, warm it slightly or add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate moist, flavorful, and buttery dessert. With their soft banana-infused base and rich brown butter frosting, they’re guaranteed to be a family favorite. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a sweet treat at home, they vanish fast—so be sure to make extra!
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