Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate dessert that blends the moist, tender texture of banana bread with the richness of a brownie. Topped with a buttery vanilla frosting, this treat is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or a dessert to impress your guests.
This comprehensive guide will not only walk you through the recipe but will also include baking tips, ingredient substitutions, variations, storage instructions, and a bit of history behind banana-based desserts.
—
The Origin of Banana Bread and Its Evolution into Brownies
Banana bread has been a staple in home baking for over a century. It gained popularity during the Great Depression when people sought ways to avoid food waste. Overripe bananas, which would have otherwise been discarded, became the star ingredient in a moist, sweet loaf.
As baking evolved, creative variations of banana bread emerged—banana muffins, banana cake, and finally, banana bread brownies. These brownies retain the moist crumb of banana bread but have a denser, fudgier texture, making them perfect for those who love a rich, sweet treat.
—
Ingredients and Substitutions
For the Banana Brownies
2 eggs – Provides structure and moisture. Can be replaced with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
3 bananas, mashed – The key ingredient for natural sweetness and moisture.
1 1/2 cups sugar – White sugar is best, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
1 cup sour cream – Makes the brownies extra moist. Substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed.
1/2 cup butter, softened – Adds richness. Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure. Use gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent.
3/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped – Adds crunch. Omit if allergic or replace with chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
For the Frosting
1/2 cup butter – The base of the frosting. Can be replaced with vegan butter if needed.
3 cups powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and smooth texture.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For flavor.
3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency. Can be replaced with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
—
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Brownie Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, sour cream, butter, and eggs until creamy.
3. Add in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, stirring until well incorporated.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt, blending for about 1 minute until smooth.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts (or chocolate chips, if preferred).
—
2. Baking the Brownies
1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the brownies to cool slightly before frosting—they should be warm, but not hot.
—
3. Making the Brown Butter Frosting
1. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Stir continuously until it turns a medium brown color—this adds a rich, nutty flavor. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
2. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
3. Pour the frosting over the warm banana brownies and use a spatula to spread evenly.
4. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing into squares.
—
Pro Tips for the Best Banana Bread Brownies
✅ Use Overripe Bananas – The riper the banana, the better the flavor and sweetness. Look for bananas with brown spots.
✅ Do Not Overmix – Overmixing the batter can lead to dense brownies instead of soft, moist ones.
✅ Brown the Butter Properly – The key to the perfect frosting is browning the butter just enough for a nutty, caramel-like aroma.
✅ Chill Before Slicing – Allow the brownies to cool completely to set the frosting before cutting into squares.
—
Recipe Variations
1. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Brownies
Replace walnuts with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a more dessert-like twist.
2. Peanut Butter Banana Brownies
Swirl peanut butter into the batter before baking for a rich, nutty flavor.
3. Cinnamon Spiced Banana Brownies
Add 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
4. Vegan Banana Brownies
Substitute eggs with flax eggs, sour cream with dairy-free yogurt, and butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
—
How to Store Banana Bread Brownies
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days for a firmer texture.
Freezing
Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To serve, thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
—
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these brownies without frosting?
Yes! They taste delicious even without frosting, but the brown butter frosting adds extra richness.
2. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess moisture before mashing.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
4. What’s the difference between banana bread and banana brownies?
Banana bread is lighter and fluffier, while banana brownies are denser and fudgier.
—
Final Thoughts
Banana Bread Brownies are a must-try dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats. The moist banana bread texture, the sweet, nutty frosting, and the richness of brownies create a truly indulgent bite.
Whether you enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or serve them as a party treat, these brownies are guaranteed to impress!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery goodness!
