There’s something magical about the perfect balance of flavors and textures that gets my heart racing in the kitchen. It’s in moments like these when I whip up these delightful Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting. Imagine the soft, chewy comfort of banana bread meeting the richness of fudgy brownies, topped with a dreamy layer of browned butter frosting that takes it to new heights. What I love most? This beginner-friendly, one-bowl dessert requires just 10 minutes of prep, making it a breeze to pull together for brunch or a cozy evening treat. Plus, you’ll only need minimal cleanup afterward—what’s not to love? Are you ready to create a dessert that’s sure to impress? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Banana Bread Brownies Amazing?
Irresistible Fusion: Enjoy the perfect blend of banana bread and fudgy brownie flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
One-Bowl Wonder: Quick and easy, this recipe requires only one bowl, meaning less mess and more fun in the kitchen!
Beginner-Friendly: Ideal for new bakers, the steps are straightforward, ensuring delicious results every time.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch or dessert, these brownies can be enjoyed warm from the oven or with a scoop of ice cream on top.
Thoughtful Storage: Make ahead for gatherings; they stay fresh for days in an airtight container, or freeze for later, making this recipe as convenient as it is tasty. Don’t forget to check out my Banana Chocolate Bread for another delicious banana treat!
Banana Bread Brownies Ingredients
• Dive into a delightful mix of flavors with these Banana Bread Brownies!
For the Brownies
- Sugar – Sweetness and structure; using brown sugar enhances flavor depth.
- Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tenderness; substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Butter – Provides richness in the brownies and elevates the frosting’s nuttiness.
- Eggs – Binds everything together, ensuring your brownies hold up nicely.
- Ripe Bananas – For natural sweetness and that iconic banana flavor; use 3-4 super ripe bananas for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; it’s an essential component, so don’t skip it!
- All-Purpose Flour – Serves as the foundation for structure in your brownies.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; always check for freshness to achieve that perfect rise.
- Salt – Balances out the sweetness beautifully.
For the Frosting
- Butter (for frosting) – Brown it to infuse a nutty flavor that complements the brownies perfectly.
- Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetening your frosting; whisk until smooth.
- Vanilla Extract (for frosting) – Adds a lovely depth to the frosting; it’s worth including!
- Milk – Adjust for desired consistency in your frosting; add a little at a time if too thick.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped Walnuts – For a delightful crunch; chocolate chips can be a tasty nut-free substitute.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Irresistible Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Begin by greasing and flouring a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan, ensuring that the edges are well coated to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your batter. Set the prepared pan aside while you mix the ingredients, achieving a perfect base for your Banana Bread Brownies.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until creamy and well combined. The mixture should appear smooth, taking about 3–5 minutes. Then, gently stir in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract. This luscious base is the heart of your Banana Bread Brownies, so make sure it’s blended evenly.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Next, sift in all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to your banana mixture. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. If desired, gently fold in the chopped walnuts for extra texture before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Spread and Bake
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared jelly roll pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating that your banana brownies are ready.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the brownies bake, make the brown butter frosting. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, stirring occasionally until it turns a deep golden brown and smells nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Remove it from heat, and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until everything is silky smooth, creating an irresistible topping for your brownies.
Step 6: Frost the Brownies
Once the banana brownies are out of the oven, immediately spread the warm brown butter frosting over them. The warmth will help the frosting melt slightly into the brownies, creating a delectable glaze. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes before slicing them into squares and sharing the deliciousness with family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These irresistible Banana Bread Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to bake and enjoy them even on your busiest days! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing and storing it covered in the refrigerator, which keeps the brownies moist and enhances their flavor. You can also slice the baked brownies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To serve, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, then add the brown butter frosting for that dreamy finish. This way, you’ll have a mouthwatering treat ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice, just as delicious as when they were freshly baked!
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, keeping them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container, just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze brownies for up to 2 months. Layer them with parchment paper and place in a sealed freezer bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy the fudgy goodness, gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Brownies
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Don’t Overmix: A few lumps in the batter are okay; overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Aim for just combined to keep your banana bread brownies tender.
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Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the more flavor they impart. Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and richness.
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Watch the Bake Time: Start checking at 20 minutes; the brownies should be golden, and a toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
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Warm Frosting Application: Spread the brown butter frosting over warm brownies for a decadent melt-in-your-mouth experience that enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Customizable Options: Feel free to swap walnuts for chocolate chips if you’re nut-free. Experimenting allows your banana bread brownies to fit everyone’s taste preferences.
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Storage Savvy: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months!
What to Serve with Irresistible Banana Bread Brownies?
Indulging in rich Banana Bread Brownies calls for a delightful meal, perfectly complementing their warmth and sweetness.
- Cold Milk: The classic companion, its refreshing coolness balances the brownies’ richness, making every bite feel even more decadent.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully into the warm brownies, adding a luxurious touch to your dessert.
- Coffee: A robust coffee enhances the sweetness, providing a perfect contrast while elevating the brownie experience—what’s better than that?
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bursting with vibrant flavors, a fresh fruit salad adds a light and zesty counterpoint, making your dessert feel balanced and bright.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: Pairing the brownies with a luxurious cup of hot chocolate will add an extra layer of sweetness that’s just heavenly for chocolate lovers.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream drizzled over the brownies adds a beautiful touch and contrasts their dense texture.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the brownies amplifies their indulgence, enhancing that gooey, luscious experience with its silky sweetness.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea create a comforting combination that mingles wonderfully with the banana flavors, inviting a cozy vibe.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those truly indulgent moments, serving warm chocolate chip cookies alongside adds another layer of chocolatey goodness to savor.
Banana Bread Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Banana Bread Brownies; you can elevate them with fun twists and substitutions!
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Chocolate Chips: Replace walnuts with chocolate chips for an ultra-chocolatey twist. This rich texture pairs beautifully with the banana flavor, creating a fudgy masterpiece.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking for a nutty, indulgent surprise. The combination of flavors will have you dreaming about these brownies!
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Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to lighten the dessert without sacrificing moisture. This simple substitution keeps the deliciousness intact while adding a boost of protein.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair in every bite. This delightful addition provides a subtle chewiness that complements the banana bread brownies beautifully.
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Gluten-Free Flour: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free without losing their incredible taste. This makes them a treat that everyone can enjoy!
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Spices: Sprinkling in cinnamon or nutmeg creates a warm, spiced undertone that elevates these brownies. Adding spices not only enhances the flavor but also makes these brownies feel extra cozy.
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Ice Cream Topping: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience. This perfect pairing creates an unforgettable moment for your sweet tooth.
And if you’re looking for more banana goodness, don’t forget to try my delightful Banana Baked Oatmeal or make some tasty Banana Chocolate Bread to satisfy your cravings!
Irresistible Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe FAQs
What bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Use 3-4 very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. The more ripe they are, the sweeter and richer the flavor will be in your banana bread brownies.
How do I store the Banana Bread Brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just let them come back to room temperature before serving for that soft, chewy bite you crave.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can freeze the banana bread brownies! Simply layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container or a sealed freezer bag and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge, or if you’re eager, bring them back to life in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my frosting is too thick?
If you find your brown butter frosting is too thick to spread, don’t worry! Just add milk, one teaspoon at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition until you reach that perfect, spreadable consistency.
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! For a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use dairy-free butter in both the brownies and frosting, and a plant-based milk will work well too!
What if my brownies are too dry?
If your banana bread brownies end up a bit dry, it might be due to overbaking. Always check them around the 20-minute mark, ensuring they’re just set in the center. If they do turn out dry, you can bring them back to life by pairing them with a scoop of ice cream or extra frosting!
Melty Banana Bread Brownies You'll Crave Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the pan by greasing and flouring a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine wet ingredients in a large mixing bowl: sugar, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until smooth, then stir in mashed bananas and vanilla.
- Sift in flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold until combined, adding walnuts if desired.
- Spread the batter in the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and set.
- Make the frosting by browning butter in a saucepan, then whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Spread warm frosting over baked brownies, cool for 10-15 minutes, then slice.
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