Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate combination of two classic desserts, bringing together the moist texture of banana bread with the decadent richness of brownies. These brownies are made with ripe mashed bananas, sour cream, and just the right amount of sweetness. The highlight is the luscious brown butter frosting, which adds a nutty, caramelized flavor to each bite. Perfect for a party or as a comforting treat at home, these brownies are easy to make and even easier to devour!
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.
Summary
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!