Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate fusion of classic banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies with this Banana Bread Brownies recipe. Perfectly moist and bursting with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, these brownies are topped with a luscious brown butter frosting that takes them to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing a holiday dessert, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Brownies:

• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ cup walnuts, chopped

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp milk

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
3. Add mashed bananas and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue heating until the butter turns a golden brown color with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat immediately.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition.
3. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Brownies

1. Pour the warm frosting over the slightly cooled banana bread brownies, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Allow the frosting to set and the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares.
3. Serve and enjoy your moist, flavorful Banana Bread Brownies!

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Tips

• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more fragrant your brownies will be.
• Toast the walnuts before adding them to the batter for extra depth of flavor.
• Ensure the butter for the frosting is browned but not burnt. Watch closely while melting.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips for a nut-free treat.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze the banana bread brownies?
Yes, wrap them individually or as a whole in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon snack.
• Garnish with sliced bananas or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for an elegant presentation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: These brownies combine the rich taste of banana bread with the dense, sweet texture of brownies.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The rich frosting and banana flavor make it a hit with everyone!
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Enjoy this delightful twist on banana bread, and watch it disappear in no time!