Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies are the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. This delightful dessert combines the best of two classics, banana bread and brownies, into a rich, moist treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re simple to make, deliciously versatile, and perfect for busy days when you’re craving something warm and homemade.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 47 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 180 mg

Why Make Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies are not only a delicious treat but also provide a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas. The natural sweetness of bananas allows you to lighten up the recipe without relying solely on sugar. This dessert can easily accommodate various dietary preferences, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings. Plus, who can resist the combination of chocolatey richness topped with a glossy frosting? These brownies can easily become your family’s favorite snack!

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies Step by Step

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (300 g) sugar
1 cup (240 g) sour cream
1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 g) butter, softened
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups (3–4) ripe bananas, mashed
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups (260 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 g) butter (for frosting)
4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
3 tablespoons milk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease/flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan. In a large bowl, beat the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs together until creamy. Next, blend in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. Add in the flour, baking soda, and salt, blending for 1 minute until just combined. If you’re using walnuts, stir them in now. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until they turn golden brown.

For the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it boils and turns lightly brown. Remove it from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until the mixture is smooth and pourable. Once the brownies are out of the oven, spread the frosting over the warm bars allowing it to melt into a glossy layer.

How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing contrast, or serve with brewed coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.

How to Store Banana Bread Brownies

To keep your Banana Bread Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, refrigerate them for a longer shelf life. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds for that warm, right-out-of-the-oven feel. You can also freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. To do so, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Expert Tips for Cooking Banana Bread Brownies

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the brownies tender.
• Feel free to substitute chocolate chips for walnuts if you want extra indulgence.
• For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Experiment with different frostings, such as cream cheese or chocolate ganache, to customize your brownies.

Delicious Variations of Banana Bread Brownies

Try adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, autumnal flavor. For a tropical twist, incorporate shredded coconut into the batter. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider folding in peanut butter or Nutella for a unique flavor explosion.

Banana Bread Brownies offer an inviting combination of flavors and textures, making them a must-try for any dessert lover. Their easy preparation process and satisfying taste make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Bake a batch today and indulge in this luscious dessert that blends the nostalgia of banana bread with the decadence of brownies!