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Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 60 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 brownies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Banana Bread Brownies combine the moist, rich flavor of ripe bananas with the sweet indulgence of classic brownies. Soft and cake-like, these brownies are topped with a buttery, lightly browned frosting for an extra layer of sweetness perfect for dessert or a special treat.


Ingredients

Brownies

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Frosting

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 23 tablespoons milk or heavy cream


Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to create a tender texture in the brownies.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, mashed ripe bananas, and vanilla extract until fully combined, adding moisture and rich banana flavor to the batter.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring even distribution of leavening agents for proper rise.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter which can lead to toughness.
  6. Add Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts gently, if using, to add a crunchy texture contrast to the soft brownies.
  7. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
  8. Cool the Brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan to allow them to set before frosting.
  9. Make the Frosting: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, cooking until it turns golden brown and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes) to add a nutty flavor.
  10. Prepare Frosting Mixture: Remove the browned butter from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk or heavy cream (2–3 tablespoons) until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  11. Frost the Brownies: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies, then let the frosting set before slicing into 12 squares and serving.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use very ripe bananas that are heavily spotted to enhance sweetness and banana intensity.
  • These brownies have a soft, cake-like texture that balances well with the rich banana flavor and sweet buttery frosting.
  • Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
  • Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.