Banana Bread Brownies

These banana bread brownies are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: banana bread and brownies. Moist, flavorful, and topped with a rich brown butter frosting, they’re a perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with the indulgent texture of brownies.
  • Easy to make and perfect for using up ripe bananas.
  • The brown butter frosting adds a decadent finishing touch.

Ingredients:

  • 1-1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1-3/4 (3 or 4) ripe bananas, mashed
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • For the Brown Butter Frosting:
    • 1/2 cup butter
    • 4 cups powdered sugar
    • 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 3 tablespoons milk

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease and flour a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, sour cream, butter, and eggs until creamy. Blend in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
  3. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, and blend for 1 minute. Stir in the chopped walnuts, if using.
  4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the brown butter frosting. In a large saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until it begins to boil. Let the butter turn a delicate brown, then remove from heat immediately.
  6. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to the browned butter. Whisk together until smooth, ensuring the frosting is thicker than a glaze but thinner than traditional frosting.
  7. While the bars are still warm, spread the brown butter frosting over the top using a spatula. The warmth of the bars will make it easier to spread the frosting evenly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 24 bars
  • Storage: Store leftover banana bread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Recipe Tips:

  • Ensure the butter for the frosting is browned carefully; it should have a nutty aroma and a golden brown color.
  • Feel free to omit the walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version, or substitute with pecans or chocolate chips for variation.
  • For a lighter frosting, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or milk to achieve your desired consistency.

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