If you adore the comforting flavors of moist banana bread and crave the fudgy richness of brownies, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe. This delightful treat marries the best of both worlds, offering tender banana-infused batter baked to perfection and topped with a luscious vanilla frosting that takes every bite to a new level of indulgence. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply enjoying as a special personal treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Banana Bread Brownies starts with a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in flavor, texture, and that gorgeous golden color. From ripe bananas to a splash of vanilla, every item has its special place in this recipe.
- Ripe bananas (3 large): Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum natural sweetness and moist texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create the perfect crumb.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Brings a lovely molasses depth that complements the bananas beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides richness and a tender crumb.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Keeps the brownies moist and gives a slight tang.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with its warm aroma.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base that holds everything together.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the brownies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and amplifies the flavors.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups) for frosting: Sweetens and creates a creamy topping.
- Softened butter (1/4 cup) for frosting: Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
- Milk (2 to 3 tablespoons) for frosting: Adjusts frosting consistency perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) for frosting: Adds that extra layer of flavor to the topping.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step ensures your Banana Bread Brownies will come out cleanly, with gorgeous edges that are a dream to slice and serve.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the mashed ripe bananas, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, then mix until the batter is completely combined and silky. This wet mixture packs in moisture and flavor, creating that signature banana bread richness with brownie decadence.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution, helping your Banana Bread Brownies rise beautifully and develop a tender crumb.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined — avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. If you’re including walnuts, fold them in now for extra texture and a lovely nutty crunch in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 28 minutes. You’ll know your Banana Bread Brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While your brownies are baking, beat together powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable. This frosting adds a dreamy, slightly sweet finish that balances the rich banana flavor perfectly.
Step 7: Frost and Cool
Let the brownies cool just enough to be warm to the touch, then gently spread the frosting over the top for a soft glaze-like layer. This slight warmth helps the frosting soften into the brownies, creating a luscious top. Allow to cool completely before slicing for the best texture and clean cuts.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation, consider sprinkling a handful of chopped walnuts or even a light dusting of cinnamon over the frosting. A few banana chips tucked on top can add a fun crunchy element that hints at the key ingredient inside.
Side Dishes
Banana Bread Brownies are rich enough to stand alone, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries bring a bright contrast, balancing sweetness with natural tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your brownies into bite-sized squares for a party platter or stack them with layers of cream cheese frosting between for an impromptu layered dessert. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes a charming gift for friends or neighbors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their moist texture. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to keep these brownies longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen Banana Bread Brownies maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, microwave individual pieces for 10 to 15 seconds or warm in a low oven. This gentle heat revives the softness and melts that heavenly frosting just slightly, making each bite feel freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use less sugar in this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind it may affect the texture and moistness slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth, so consider tweaking both sugars proportionally for the best results.
Are walnuts necessary for the recipe?
Walnuts are completely optional. They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor, but if you have allergies or prefer a smoother texture, you can omit them without compromising the overall taste.
Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?
Absolutely! Plain Greek yogurt or regular yogurt can substitute sour cream and will keep the brownies moist with a subtle tang, making it a great alternative.
What’s the best way to mash bananas for this recipe?
Use ripe bananas that are soft and spotted. Mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but with a few small lumps to keep some texture in the batter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum for the best texture in your Banana Bread Brownies.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for a dessert that combines nostalgic comfort with a fresh twist, this Banana Bread Brownies Recipe is destined to become one of your favorites. It’s easy, delightful, and infinitely shareable. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your baking repertoire — the kind of treat that brings smiles with every chewy, sweet bite.
Print
Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these rich and moist Banana Bread Brownies, a perfect fusion of classic banana bread and fudgy brownies topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla frosting. Made with ripe bananas, a mix of sugars, and optional walnuts, these bars offer a sweet and comforting dessert with a soft glaze-like finish that’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking, ensuring easy removal of your brownies later.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, mashed ripe bananas, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning agents.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until all ingredients are combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Add walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts if you choose to include them, for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Prepare frosting: While the brownies bake, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable, creating a sweet glaze to top your brownies.
- Frost and cool: Allow the brownies to cool slightly after baking—while still warm, spread the frosting evenly over the surface for a soft glaze effect. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to allow the frosting to set.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for an extra intense banana flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy undertone.
- Store brownies tightly covered to keep them moist for several days.
