Banana bread brownies are an exciting twist on two beloved baked goods that bring comfort and joy to many. If you love the rich, moist texture of banana bread combined with the indulgence of brownies, then you’re in for a treat! These delicious treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while delivering a lovely banana flavor. The addition of brown butter frosting takes this dessert to the next level, adding a nutty richness that perfectly complements the banana base.
Why We Love This Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
There are countless reasons to love banana bread brownies. For starters, they strike a perfect balance between the soft, cake-like texture of banana bread and the fudgy richness of brownies. This unique combination makes each bite incredibly satisfying and leaves you wanting more.
The recipe is incredibly simple, making it great for both beginner and experienced bakers. You won’t need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and a baking pan—so it’s accessible for everyone. It’s also a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter.
Moreover, you have the flexibility to customize this recipe to your liking. Whether you prefer a nutty flavor or want to add chocolate chips, you can easily make it your own. Plus, the inclusion of Greek yogurt or sour cream ensures that the brownies stay moist and flavorful throughout.
Let’s dive into the ingredients that you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat!
Ingredients for Banana Bread Brownies
To create your mouthwatering banana bread brownies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
With these ingredients, you are well on your way to creating the most delightful banana bread brownies anyone has ever tasted.
How to Make Banana Bread Brownies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get your baking groove on. Follow these steps to make your banana bread brownies:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch pan generously with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cream together the sugar and softened butter in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) along with the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, being careful not to over-mix. Stir until just moistened.
- If you desire, fold in any nuts or chocolate chips at this stage for added texture.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Make sure to smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 23 to 28 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the brownies are done.
- While the brownies are baking, you can prepare the brown butter frosting. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to cook until it turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma.
- Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until the frosting becomes smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add an additional tablespoon of milk.
- Once the brownies are out of the oven, and still warm, pour the frosting over the top. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread it evenly across the surface.
And just like that, you’re done! Your banana bread brownies are ready to cool and be devoured.
How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies
When it comes to serving your scrumptious banana bread brownies, the possibilities are endless. You can enjoy them warm straight from the oven for a melty, gooey experience. Alternatively, let them cool and slice them into squares for an elegant presentation.
For an extra touch, consider serving the brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the brownies combined with the cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce or caramel on top can add even more flavor dimension.
If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure to place the brownies on a dessert platter for everyone to admire. Sharing these delightful treats will surely elevate the mood of any occasion.
Expert Tips: Banana Bread Brownies
To make sure your banana bread brownies turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:
- Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
- Don’t over-mix: Over-mixing can lead to dense brownies. Mix just until all ingredients are incorporated for a light and fluffy texture.
- Brown the butter properly: When making the frosting, keep an eye on the butter as it should turn a golden brown. This will create that wonderful nutty flavor essential for the frosting.
- Test for doneness: Ovens vary, so always check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. This ensures that they don’t overbake.
- Let the brownies cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool before cutting will help them hold their shape and prevent them from becoming too crumbly.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the best batch of banana bread brownies anyone has ever tasted.
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
Storing your banana bread brownies properly will help keep them fresh and tasty for longer. Once they are completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want them to last even longer, consider refrigerating your brownies. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy a piece, simply take it out, and let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
For even longer storage, you can freeze your brownies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
Variations of Banana Bread Brownies
One of the best things about banana bread brownies is their versatility. You can easily change up the flavors and add-ins to suit your taste. Here are some variations that you might consider:
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Heaven: Fold in chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist. Dark chocolate chips contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the bananas.
- Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flavor. This can give a lovely chewiness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Spiced Variation: Spice things up by adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. This will enhance the flavor and lend warmth to the brownies.
- Elegant Topping: Instead of brown butter frosting, consider topping your brownie squares with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or a rich cream cheese frosting for a decadent finish.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to find your ultimate banana bread brownies recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Bread Brownies
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen bananas work wonderfully for banana bread brownies. Just make sure to thaw and mash them before using. They will provide the same moistness and flavor as fresh bananas.
Can I make banana bread brownies without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, or 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg you want to replace.
How can I adjust the sweetness of banana bread brownies?
If you want a less sweet treat, feel free to reduce the granulated sugar in the recipe. Keeping the bananas ripe will also contribute natural sweetness.
What can I serve with banana bread brownies?
These brownies pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts. They are also delightful with a cup of coffee or tea.
Can I bake these brownies in a different size pan?
Yes! Just keep in mind that using a different-sized pan may affect the baking time. If you use a smaller pan, your brownies will be thicker and may require a longer baking time. Conversely, a larger pan may result in thinner brownies that bake more quickly.