Irresistibly Fudgy Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Whipping up a delectable banana bread brownies fusion promises pure culinary magic that blends two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat.

Chocolate-loving bakers will adore this decadent mashup of classic comfort and rich indulgence.

Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness while creating an incredibly moist texture that melts in your mouth.

Creamy chocolate undertones complement the banana’s gentle flavor, resulting in a dessert that surprises and delights.

Unexpected ingredients elevate this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary, making each bite a delightful adventure.

Professional and home bakers alike can master this simple yet impressive dessert that looks complicated but comes together effortlessly.

You won’t be able to resist cutting a generous slice and savoring every incredible moment of deliciousness.

Banana Bread Brownies Appeal

• Indulge in Comfort: Banana bread brownies blend two classic desserts into one irresistible treat that feels like a warm hug from grandma's kitchen.
• Customize with Ease: Swap walnuts for pecans or add chocolate chips to make this recipe uniquely yours, giving you creative freedom in the kitchen.
• Perfect Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies work brilliantly for potlucks, family gatherings, or unexpected sweet cravings, satisfying everyone's dessert desires.
• Bake Like a Pro: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.

Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies

• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture in the banana bread brownies.
• Sour Cream: Provides moisture and richness to the batter.
• Butter: Softened butter adds flavor and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure of the brownies.
• Bananas: Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and a moist texture to the dessert.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the brownie batter and provides structure.
• Baking Soda: Helps the brownies rise and creates a light, tender crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the brownies.

• Butter: Browned butter creates a rich, nutty flavor for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a smooth, creamy frosting.
• Milk, Vanilla Extract: Contribute to the consistency and flavor of the frosting.

Step-by-Step Banana Bread Brownies

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. Make sure the entire pan is evenly coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Creamy Base

• Granulated sugar
• Sour cream
• Softened butter
• Eggs

Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture looks silky and smooth. Add mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until fully integrated.

Step 3: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

Slowly add flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until no flour streaks remain.

Gently fold in chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Craft Brown Butter Frosting

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Cook until it turns a beautiful medium brown, developing a rich nutty flavor. Remove from heat and gradually mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time.

Stir in milk and vanilla extract until the frosting becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Once brownies have cooled, pour the brown butter frosting over the top.

Spread evenly and let cool completely until frosting sets. Slice into squares and enjoy your delectable treat!

Pro Tips for Banana Bread Brownies

• Swap walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty crunch and added texture in your banana bread brownies.
• Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and deeper banana flavor, as they provide more natural sugars and moisture.
• Enhance the frosting's depth by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, which complement the banana's warmth and create a more complex taste profile.
• Reduce sugar content by substituting some granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative without compromising taste.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness and a firmer frosting consistency.

Flavor Variations of Banana Bread Brownies

• Gluten-Free Banana Bread Brownies: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains rich banana flavor.
• Vegan Banana Brownie Bars: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and choose dairy-free milk for a plant-based alternative that keeps the moist texture.
• Nutless Banana Chocolate Squares: Eliminate walnuts and add dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs for a nut-free option with extra chocolatey depth and crunch.
• Low-Sugar Banana Brownie Treat: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce overall sugar content while maintaining sweet banana essence.

Pairing Suggestions for Banana Bread Brownies

• The rich, nutty flavor of browned butter frosting perfectly complements the smooth, velvety texture of a classic café latte. The espresso's slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the banana bread brownies.
• A smooth caramel-infused whiskey creates a decadent pairing that highlights the brown butter notes. The whiskey's warmth and slight oakiness intensify the brownie's deep, complex flavors.
• Cold, creamy vanilla bean ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, dense brownies. The cool sweetness cuts through the richness, creating a luxurious dessert experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

Storage Tips for Banana Bread Brownies

• Store cooled banana bread brownies in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
• Wrap the entire uncut pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, preserving the entire batch for later enjoyment. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Cut brownies into squares, separate with parchment paper, and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze individual portions for easy grab-and-go treats lasting up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.

FAQs

• Can I make banana bread brownies without walnuts?

Yes, you can easily omit the walnuts or substitute them with other nuts like pecans or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

• How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

Use very ripe bananas with dark brown or black spots, as they provide the most intense banana flavor and natural sweetness to the brownies.

• Why does the recipe use brown butter in the frosting?

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the frosting, creating a more complex and delicious topping for the brownies.

• Is this recipe considered a dessert or a breakfast treat?

These banana bread brownies are versatile and can be enjoyed as both a dessert and a sweet breakfast option, making them perfect for various occasions.

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful banana bread brownies merge classic comfort with decadent chocolate for an irresistible dessert. Rich layers of banana-infused brownie promise a luxurious experience that satisfies sweet cravings with pure indulgence.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
• 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsps pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (60 g) walnuts (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter
• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tsps pure vanilla extract
• 3 tbsps milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F (190°C) and thoroughly coat a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
2. Create a creamy base by whisking sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs using an electric mixer until smooth and fully integrated.
3. Gently fold mashed bananas and vanilla extract into the wet mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
4. Gradually sift flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients, mixing until a uniform batter forms without flour streaks.
5. Incorporate chopped walnuts throughout the batter, stirring carefully to maintain an even texture.
6. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly and creating a smooth surface.
7. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating perfect doneness.
8. For the frosting, brown butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it develops a rich, nutty color.
9. Remove browned butter from heat and gradually whisk in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, creating a smooth consistency.
10. Blend milk and vanilla extract into the frosting, stirring until completely smooth and glossy.
11. Once brownies have cooled slightly, generously pour and spread frosting across the entire surface.
12. Allow brownies to cool completely, enabling the frosting to set properly before cutting into squares.
13. Serve and enjoy the rich, banana-infused brownies with their decadent brown butter frosting.

Notes

• Brown butter adds a deep, nutty complexity to the frosting, elevating the traditional banana bread flavor profile with rich caramelized notes.
• Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for varied texture and complementary taste, tailoring the recipe to personal preferences.
• Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture, as their intense flavor contributes significantly to the brownie’s overall depth and softness.
• Consider reducing sugar by 1/4 cup and adding a dash of cinnamon for a more nuanced, less sweet dessert that highlights the natural banana sweetness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 349
• Sugar: 44 g
• Sodium: 261 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 47 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg