Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies bring together the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the richness of classic brownies. This delightful fusion is made even better with a decadent brown butter frosting, which adds a caramel-like flavor and a creamy finish to each bite. Whether you're a fan of banana bread or a brownie lover, this recipe combines the best of both worlds into one mouthwatering treat.

INGREDIENTS

• Butter, softened: 1/2 cup, for richness in the batter
• Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness
• Eggs: 2 large, to help bind the ingredients
• Sour cream: 1 cup, for moisture and tenderness
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavor
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups, to give structure
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, for leavening
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, to balance the flavors
• Mashed ripe bananas: 1 cup, for a naturally sweet banana flavor
• Butter (for frosting): 1/2 cup, to make the brown butter frosting
• Powdered sugar: 4 cups, to sweeten and thicken the frosting
• Vanilla extract (for frosting): 1 1/2 teaspoons, for flavor
• Milk: 3 tablespoons, to smooth out the frosting

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Lightly dust with flour.

Step 2:

Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.

Step 3:

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.

Step 4:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5:

Fold in the mashed bananas.

Step 6:

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7:

Let the brownies cool completely in the dish on a wire rack.

Step 8:

For the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to brown. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.

Step 9:

Mix the browned butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.

Step 10:

Once the brownies have cooled, frost them with the brown butter frosting. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Serving and Storage Tips

• These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For an extra treat, warm the brownies slightly before serving for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer a more intense banana flavor, use overripe bananas for a richer taste.
• To enhance the nuttiness of the frosting, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown butter before mixing in the other ingredients.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Ina Garten suggests using high-quality vanilla extract to bring out the flavors of the bananas and brown butter frosting.
• Chef Alton Brown recommends using a light dusting of flour in the baking pan to ensure that the brownies don’t stick.

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Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, sweet flavors of banana bread with the dense, rich texture of brownies, creating a dessert that’s truly irresistible. The batter is made with ripe bananas, sour cream, and a hint of vanilla for a soft, tender crumb. Once baked to golden perfection, these brownies are frosted with a generous layer of brown butter frosting, adding a delightful nutty and sweet touch to every bite. Perfect for banana bread fans and brownie lovers alike, this recipe is simple to prepare but delivers a gourmet-quality dessert. Serve them as a dessert or treat at any gathering, and watch them disappear!