Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

If you love the best of both banana bread and fudgy bars, Banana Bread Brownies are about to become your newest obsession. These treats deliver everything you adore in classic banana bread—moist texture, warm banana flavor, and that nostalgic aroma—but pair it with the indulgence of brownies, complete with a layer of rich brown butter frosting. Whether you need a show-stopping dessert for a party or just something to brighten an ordinary afternoon, these Banana Bread Brownies will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Banana Bread Brownies come together with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a vital role in building that perfect balance of moist, fluffy texture and irresistible flavor—don’t skip a thing!

• Granulated sugar: Brings just the right amount of sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Sour cream: Keeps the brownies incredibly moist and adds a gentle tang that balances the banana’s sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (for both batter and frosting): Adds rich flavor and softness, with extra buttery notes in the frosting thanks to browning.
• Eggs: Create structure and bind everything together for that perfect sliceable texture.
• Ripe bananas: The star of the show—choose super-ripe bananas for the most flavor and sweetness.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both the brownies and frosting.
• All-purpose flour: Gives the brownies their body without making them too dense.
• Baking soda: Helps the brownies rise and keeps the texture light.
• Salt: Enhances every other flavor—don’t skip it!
• Walnuts (finely chopped): Offer a delightful crunch and toasty, nutty notes in every bite.
• Powdered sugar (for frosting): Creates a smooth, sweet, and creamy finish on top of the brownies.
• Milk (for frosting): Brings the frosting to just the right spreadable consistency.

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and give it a generous coating of non-stick spray or a swipe of butter. This ensures those Banana Bread Brownies release without a fuss and keeps the edges golden and lovely.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a roomy bowl, combine the granulated sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, blend everything together until you’ve got a smooth, creamy base. Next, add in your mashed bananas and vanilla extract—this is where the kitchen starts to smell heavenly. Mix until fully incorporated for a luscious batter.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix everything until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. At this point, fold in those finely chopped walnuts—they punctuate the batter with their earthy, toasty flavor and add that perfect little bite to each square.

Step 4: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the finished batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. Test with a toothpick for doneness: when it comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine), it’s time to pull your brownies out. Let them cool a bit right in the pan before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Brown Butter Frosting

While your brownies are cooling, get started on the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it cook until it turns a deep golden-brown and smells nutty—this step brings so much flavor! Remove from heat and start whisking in the powdered sugar gradually, followed by the milk and vanilla. Stir until smooth and spreadable.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Pour that dreamy brown butter frosting over the slightly warm Banana Bread Brownies and gently spread it to all the edges. Allow the frosted brownies to cool completely in the pan so the frosting can set into a glossy, perfect finish. Once cooled, slice into squares and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies

Garnishes

For a truly special touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar atop your frosted brownies. Sometimes, a thin drizzle of melted chocolate or a scatter of banana chips can elevate the look and flavor even more. Those simple, beautiful garnishes make every square a little celebration.

Side Dishes

Banana Bread Brownies are rich enough to serve solo, but they also play well with others. Serve them alongside fresh fruit salad, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A hot cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk complements their cozy, classic flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut brownies into miniature squares for a sweet addition to dessert platters, or use a round cookie cutter for playful shapes. Stack layers with extra frosting in between for a decadent treat, or skewer cubes onto sticks for a fun twist at parties. However you serve them, Banana Bread Brownies are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Banana Bread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen runs a bit warm, slide the container into the fridge to keep the frosting fresh and the brownies perfectly moist.

Freezing

Banana Bread Brownies freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option. Once completely cooled and frosted, cut them into squares and separate layers with parchment paper. Pop them into a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

If you like a slightly warm brownie, a quick zap in the microwave (about 10–15 seconds) will soften the frosting and make the flavors even more inviting. Be sure not to overheat, or the frosting could become too melty.

FAQs

Can I make Banana Bread Brownies without nuts?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or need a nut-free option, simply skip them. The brownies will be just as moist and flavorful, and you could sprinkle in chocolate chips as a fun replacement if desired.

What’s the best way to tell when the brownies are done?

The best method is the classic toothpick test: insert it into the center of the pan, and if it comes out mostly clean with just a few crumbs (not wet batter), your Banana Bread Brownies are ready. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them moist—not dry.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots and a soft feel. These bring maximum sweetness and deep banana flavor to your brownies.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt works really well as a substitute for sour cream. It gives the brownies that same moist texture and subtle tang, so you can use them interchangeably in this recipe.

Do Banana Bread Brownies need to be refrigerated?

If you plan to eat them within a day or two, room temperature storage is perfectly fine. For longer freshness or during hot weather, storing them in the fridge keeps both the brownies and the frosting in top shape.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about blending the comfort of banana bread with the decadence of brownies! Whether you’re making them for your family, a party, or as a treat just for yourself, these Banana Bread Brownies will brighten any day. Give this recipe a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your tastebuds won’t stop thanking you!

Print