Description
These Banana Bread Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of banana bread with the dense, fudgy qualities of brownies. Made with ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, and a delicious brown butter frosting, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor that’s ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Batter:
- 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 paste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: walnuts (quantity to taste)
Brown Butter Frosting:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan using non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla paste until fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt just until the mixture is moistened. If using, stir in walnuts to add texture and flavor.
- Bake the Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 23 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Prepare Brown Butter Frosting: While the brownies are baking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it turns a delicate brown color and emits a nutty aroma, then immediately remove from heat to prevent burning.
- Mix Frosting: Whisk the browned butter together with powdered sugar, vanilla paste, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin.
- Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are out of the oven and still warm, pour the warm brown butter frosting evenly over them. Spread gently with the back of a spoon to cover the surface.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Optional walnuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Brown butter frosting should be poured warm to soak slightly into the brownies.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
