Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional recipes that blend the classic flavor of banana bread with the rich texture of brownies. This combination creates a sweet treat that is moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this guide will walk you through making these delicious brownies, topped with a mouthwatering brown butter frosting.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Bars:
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 ¾ cups ripe bananas, mashed (about 3 to 4 bananas)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional for a delightful crunch)
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- ½ cup butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Bread Brownies
1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan to ensure your bars come out effortlessly.
2. Mix the Banana Bread Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, blending until well combined.
- Sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix for about 1 minute until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- If you love some texture, stir in the chopped walnuts for added crunch.
3. Pour and Spread the Batter
- Transfer the batter into the greased and floured pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out, ensuring an even layer.
4. Bake Until Golden
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the surface is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Prepare the Brown Butter Frosting
- While the bars are baking, heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Let it melt and bubble, watching closely as it transforms into a golden-brown hue with a nutty aroma. This step is key—don’t let it burn!
- Remove the butter from heat immediately. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and slightly thick but spreadable.
- If the frosting feels too runny, add a touch more powdered sugar to thicken it.
6. Frost the Bars
- Once the bars are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly but remain warm.
- Spread the brown butter frosting evenly over the bars. The frosting will glide on seamlessly over the warm surface, soaking in just enough for an incredible flavor boost.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Ripeness of Bananas: Use bananas that are very ripe for the sweetest flavor. The dark spots indicate perfect ripeness.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Add-ins: Try adding chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or dried fruit to the batter for variation.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix to make this treat gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Banana Bread Brownies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as an afternoon snack, a delightful dessert for a gathering, or as a treat in lunchboxes. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. They are a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Conclusion
Incorporating the beloved flavors of banana bread and brownies into one recipe creates a treat that is not only delicious but also versatile. Banana Bread Brownies are easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste. With the added richness of brown butter frosting, they elevate this simple dish to something special.
Now that you know how to make these delectable brownies, gather your ingredients and start baking. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the warm, comforting aroma of banana goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and mash them before using in the recipe.
How can I tell when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
Feel free to use other nuts, chocolate chips, or omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
Enjoy your baking adventure with Banana Bread Brownies! They’re sure to bring smiles and satisfaction with every bite.
Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs until smooth and creamy.
- Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, blending until well combined.
- Sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth and free of lumps.
- If desired, stir in the chopped walnuts.
- Transfer the batter into the greased pan and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, heat the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown with a nutty aroma.
- Remove from heat and add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, whisking until smooth and slightly thick.
- If necessary, add more powdered sugar to achieve the desired thickness.
- Allow the bars to cool slightly, then spread the frosting evenly on top while the bars are still warm.
