Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

These Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect combination of moist banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies. With the sweetness of ripe bananas and the indulgent texture of a classic brownie, these bars are an irresistible treat. They are topped with a luscious brown butter frosting that adds a nutty, caramel-like flavor, making them a delicious dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a sweet snack, these banana bread brownies are sure to become a favorite!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Brown Butter Frosting

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
• Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
• Stir in the mashed bananas until well incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Brown Butter Frosting

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the browned butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Frost the Brownies

• Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the brown butter frosting evenly over the top.
• Allow the frosting to set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Bananas: Use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness. The riper the bananas, the more moist and flavorful the brownies will be.
• Brown Butter: Be sure to watch the butter closely while browning, as it can go from golden to burnt quickly. The nutty aroma is your cue that it’s ready.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the brownies dense. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the brown butter frosting with cream cheese frosting for a tangy, creamy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these brownies ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make these banana bread brownies ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze these brownies? A: Absolutely! Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I omit the frosting? A: Yes, these brownies are delicious even without the frosting. If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can skip the frosting altogether.

These Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate combination of two beloved treats—moist banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies. Topped with a decadent brown butter frosting, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or just a simple dessert at home. The flavors of ripe bananas, cinnamon, and the nutty brown butter frosting come together to create a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors in every bite!