If you love the comforting flavors of banana bread but truly crave the fudgy decadence of brownies, then Banana Bread Brownies are about to be your new obsession. Imagine the tender, fruity goodness of classic banana bread, but remixed into soft, cake-like bars and finished with a swoon-worthy brown butter frosting that melts into every bite. It’s the best of both worlds, perfect for sharing or savoring with your favorite hot beverage—trust me, everyone will be asking for this recipe!

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe for Banana Bread Brownies is delightfully straightforward, yet each ingredient brings its own magic to the mix. From the overripe bananas that make the bars sweet and moist, to the creamy frosting that pushes it all over the top, every element is essential for irresistible results.

Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and keeps the bars tender.
Plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream): Gives the brownies a rich tang and incredible moisture.
Butter, softened: Helps create the buttery crumb that makes these bars so addictive.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the lovely cake-like texture.
Ripe bananas, mashed: The star of the show—choose bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor!
Vanilla extract: Boosts the cozy, warm aromas throughout the bars and the frosting.
All purpose flour: The framework that holds everything together.
Baking soda: Lifts the batter so your Banana Bread Brownies bake up fluffy, not dense.
Salt: Rounds out the flavors and balances all that sweetness.
Powdered sugar (for frosting): Makes the brown butter frosting perfectly smooth and sweet.
More butter (for frosting): Browning this butter makes the frosting completely unforgettable.
Milk: A splash or two transforms your frosting into a pourable, glossy topper.

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray. This ensures your Banana Bread Brownies lift easily and bake evenly, giving you that coveted golden edge on every bar.

Step 2: Cream Together the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened butter until fluffy and light, about 2 to 3 minutes. Next, blend in the plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and the eggs—add them one at a time and make sure everything is thoroughly mixed. This creamy base is the secret to ultra-moist brownies.

Step 3: Add Bananas and Vanilla

Stir in your mashed, ultra-ripe bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until smoothly combined. The bananas not only add natural sweetness, but they keep each bite juicy and tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gently fold them into the wet mixture. Go slowly here—mix just until the batter comes together, as over-mixing can make the brownies tough. This is also where you can fold in some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 23-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out nearly clean (a few moist crumbs are perfect). Your kitchen will smell utterly amazing!

Step 6: Make the Brown Butter Frosting

Just before the Banana Bread Brownies finish baking, melt the butter for the frosting over medium heat. Watch as it turns golden and smells nutty, then remove from heat immediately. Stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until you have a silky, spreadable frosting—add a touch more milk if needed.

Step 7: Frost, Cool, and Slice

Pour the warm frosting over the Banana Bread Brownies as soon as they leave the oven, then spread it evenly to the edges. Let the bars cool completely so the frosting can set—if you can resist digging in right away! Once cool, slice into generous bars and enjoy the sweet reward.

How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies

Garnishes

Give your finished Banana Bread Brownies an extra flourish by sprinkling them with chopped toasted walnuts, mini chocolate chips, or a light dusting of cinnamon before the frosting sets. A drizzle of caramel sauce or melted chocolate is another fun way to dress them up for special occasions.

Side Dishes

For a standout dessert plate, pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and some sliced fresh strawberries. If serving at brunch, they’re delightful with a mug of strong coffee or a cold glass of milk for the kids (and grown-ups alike!).

Creative Ways to Present

Banana Bread Brownies also make wonderful edible gifts—pack squares into parchment-lined boxes, or wrap individually for on-the-go treats. Cut into bite-sized cubes for party platters, or layer pieces with whipped cream and berries to create a showy dessert trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep Banana Bread Brownies fresh and delicious by storing them tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is on the warm side or you want to keep them longer, simply refrigerate for up to five days—they’ll stay moist and flavorful.

Freezing

To freeze, let the brownies (with or without frosting) cool completely, then wrap individual pieces in plastic or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or topping with extra frosting if you like.

Reheating

For that just-baked taste, pop a single Banana Bread Brownie in the microwave for 10-20 seconds. The frosting will turn delightfully melty and the bar will taste freshly made—an instant comfort food fix!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all purpose flour?

Absolutely! Substitute up to half of the all purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture and extra fiber, but keep in mind the brownies might be slightly more dense.

What can I add for extra flavor or crunch?

Feel free to fold in a handful of chopped toasted walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra crunch and bursts of flavor, or even swirl in a little peanut butter before baking for a fun twist!

Can the brown butter frosting be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter for browning and a non-dairy milk when preparing the frosting to keep it creamy and delicious for anyone avoiding dairy products.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

The trick is to insert a toothpick into the center: if it emerges with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the brownies are done. Don’t wait for the toothpick to come out completely clean or they might overbake.

Is it necessary to let the brownies cool before slicing?

For the absolute best presentation, allow the brownies to cool fully so the frosting sets and the bars slice neatly. If you can’t wait, dive in while warm—they’ll be a little messier but just as delicious!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these Banana Bread Brownies enough—there’s just something joyful about combining two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. Whether you bake them for family gatherings, school lunches, or a random Tuesday afternoon, you’re sure to spark smiles. Go on, give them a try and make sure to save yourself the biggest piece!