Fudgy, flavorful, and frosted to perfection, Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate mash-up of two classic treats. These dessert bars combine the moist texture of banana bread with the rich sweetness of brownies, all topped off with an indulgent brown butter frosting. Whether you’re baking for a brunch, potluck, or sweet afternoon snack, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level.
If you’ve enjoyed our Banana Cream Cake or classic Walnut Brownies, you’re going to love these decadent bars. They’re easy to make, packed with banana flavor, and ideal for using up overripe bananas in a creative way.
What Are Banana Bread Brownies?
Banana Bread Brownies are soft, cake-like dessert bars made with mashed bananas, sour cream, and a rich brown butter frosting. Unlike traditional chocolate brownies, these get their depth of flavor from browned butter and bananas, with optional walnuts adding a satisfying crunch. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this recipe is sure to win over everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Here’s why these brownies deserve a spot in your recipe book:
- Moist and tender texture: Thanks to bananas and sour cream.
- Unique twist on classic banana bread: With a decadent brown butter frosting.
- Perfect for sharing: Great for gatherings and bake sales.
If banana desserts are your jam, these will quickly become a favorite.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Quick Overview
These bars come together easily and bake in just 20–25 minutes. The brown butter frosting adds a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the banana base.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 to 4 bananas)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 375°F. Grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, butter, and eggs until creamy.
- Add Bananas and Vanilla: Blend in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Mix in flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir for about 1 minute until combined. Fold in walnuts if using.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies bake, heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to boil. Let it turn a light brown color, then remove from heat.
- Whisk Frosting: Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the browned butter and whisk until smooth. The frosting should be spreadable but not too thick.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the frosting over the warm bars using a spatula. The heat helps the frosting glide easily.
What to Serve with Banana Bread Brownies
These bars pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. Serve them on a dessert platter with fruit, or drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra treat. They also make a lovely gift wrapped in parchment paper and twine.
Top Tips for Perfect Brownies
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies.
- Don’t overbake: They should be moist and lightly golden.
- Brown the butter carefully: Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Frost while warm: This makes spreading the frosting easier.
- Cool before slicing: For clean cuts and best presentation.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes! Full-fat Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
Can I make these in a 9×13 pan? Yes, though the bars will be thicker. Adjust baking time slightly.
Can I leave out the nuts? Absolutely. They’re optional and can be omitted or replaced with chocolate chips.
What’s the best way to mash bananas? Use a fork, potato masher, or hand mixer for a smooth consistency.
Can I double the frosting? Yes, if you love extra frosting, go for it!
Conclusion
Banana Bread Brownies are a delicious twist on two beloved desserts, blending banana bread’s moist richness with the indulgence of a frosted brownie. With a nutty brown butter glaze and soft, cake-like texture, they’re sure to satisfy every sweet tooth. Bake a batch and see why everyone’s raving about this sweet, banana-filled treat!
Ingredients
- For the Brownies:
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 to 4 bananas)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease and flour a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan.
- In a large bowl, beat together sugar, sour cream, butter, and eggs until creamy.
- Blend in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined. Fold in walnuts if using.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the bars bake, prepare the frosting. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to brown. Remove from heat.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to the browned butter. Whisk until smooth and spreadable.
- Spread frosting over warm bars. Let cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for best flavor. Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream. Frost while warm for a smooth spread. Store leftovers covered at room temp or refrigerated.