Name: Delicious Banana Bread Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3–4 bananas); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips (optional); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting); 1/4 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

If you’re in search of a dessert that perfectly marries comfort and indulgence, look no further than these Banana Bread Brownies. This delightful treat combines the best elements of soft, moist banana bread with the decadent texture of frosted cake-like brownies. They are simply ideal for any occasion—be it breakfast, a quick dessert, or a sweet snack during the day. Utilizing overripe bananas, this recipe transforms what might otherwise go to waste into a flavorful and enticing dessert that everyone will love. With an easy preparation process and everyday ingredients, these Banana Bread Brownies are bound to become a staple in your home kitchen.

Imagine the aromas wafting through your home as these brownies bake to perfection, inviting your family or friends to gather in anticipation of a delicious treat. The combination of bananas, rich butter, and a dreamy frosting creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the toughest critics. Whether you need a dessert to accompany your brunch, an after-dinner sweet, or simply a fulfilling snack to enjoy, these brownies can fit the bill. Plus, they are vegetarian-friendly, making them a versatile option for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Brownies

These Banana Bread Brownies stand out for numerous reasons:

Delicious Flavor: The sweetness of ripe bananas perfectly complements the rich frosting, creating a harmonious blend of tastes that will leave you craving more.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll find this recipe is quick and easy, perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Versatile: From breakfast to dessert or even a cozy snack, these brownies can be enjoyed at any hour of the day, appealing to both young and old.
Low Waste: Transform overripe bananas, which often end up discarded, into something delicious, reducing food waste and maximizing flavor.
Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful process of baking Banana Bread Brownies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature by the time your batter is ready. Locate a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies once they’re baked.

In addition to your baking pan, gather mixing bowls for combining ingredients, a whisk for stirring, and a spatula for folding in any optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. A mixer comes in handy for creaming the butter and sugar—whether you opt for a hand mixer or a stand mixer, this will make your preparation even more efficient.

Lastly, make sure you have measuring cups and spoons on hand for accuracy. Organization is key, so perhaps arrange your ingredients in the order they’ll be used to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

This recipe calls for ingredients that are likely found in your kitchen or can be easily sourced:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3–4 bananas)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
1/4 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures optimal baking conditions for your brownies. While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper. Lining the pan with parchment paper can help with easy removal of the brownies later on.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it adds air to the mixture, making for lighter brownies. Once creamy, add the eggs one by one, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to infuse additional flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate the Bananas and Sour Cream

Next, gently mix in the mashed bananas along with the sour cream. These ingredients not only contribute moisture but also enhance the richness of the brownies. Ensure everything is combined well but take care not to overmix at this stage; a few lumps are okay.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, combining gently until just incorporated. This prevents the development of gluten, ensuring tender brownies.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

If you chose to include nuts or mini chocolate chips, this is the time to fold those in. These additions will provide a delightful texture contrast and flavor boost to your brownies. Aim for an even distribution for the best results.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the combined batter into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it’s spread into an even layer. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

After baking, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial for letting the brownies set and prevents the frosting from melting into a gooey mess. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by melting butter in a saucepan, removing it from heat, and stirring in the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and spreadable.

Step 8: Enjoy!

After the brownies have cooled, spread the delicious frosting over the top without hesitation. Let it set for around 15 minutes before slicing them into squares to serve. Your personal Banana Bread Brownies are ready to be enjoyed by friends and family—what a perfect way to brighten up any day!

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up with your Banana Bread Brownies, consider these delightful variations:

Protein: Add a protein boost by mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
Vegetables: Incorporate shredded zucchini or carrots for a healthy twist.
Spices: Enhance flavor by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of ginger to the batter for some warmth.

Cooking Notes

For the best tasting brownies, be sure to use very ripe bananas. They should have plenty of brown spots for optimal sweetness.
Never rush the cooling step before frosting. This ensures a perfectly creamy and thick frosting that holds its shape.
If you have leftover brownies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon snack.

Tips

Use a sharp knife to slice the brownies for clean edges. Wipe the knife blade with a damp cloth between cuts for added neatness.
Experiment with different types of frosting, such as cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache, for unique twists.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 per brownie
Protein: 4g per brownie
Sodium: 230mg per brownie

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great in this recipe! Thaw them completely and strain out excess liquid before using.

What’s the best way to store these brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and the brownies will still turn out delicious!

How can I make the brownies healthier?

Consider using unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the butter or sugar to reduce the calorie content while keeping the fruit flavor.

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Brownies are not only an incredible dessert option, combining the beloved flavors of banana bread and brownies, but they also showcase the beauty of using overripe bananas to create a scrumptious treat. As you take your first bite, the moistness, sweetness, and delightful frosting will make it clear why this recipe deserves a prime spot in your cooking repertoire. Feel free to share your own variations and experiences with us; we love hearing from you! Make sure to bookmark this recipe so you can revisit it time and again, as one batch is never quite enough to satisfy your cravings!