Banana Bread Brownies

These Banana Bread Brownies with brown butter frosting are a delightful treat that you won’t be able to resist! Perfect for any occasion, these brownies combine the rich flavors of banana bread with a gooey brownie texture. The addition of brown butter frosting takes them to another level, making them a mouthwatering dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these brownies come together quickly.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ripe bananas and rich brown butter creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in; they suit any occasion.
• Addictive Frosting: The brown butter frosting adds an irresistible sweetness that enhances every bite.
• Great Use for Ripe Bananas: Transform those overripe bananas into something special rather than letting them go to waste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these banana bread brownies efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and effort when beating ingredients until creamy.
• Rubber spatula: Helpful for folding in ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
• Baking pan: A 9×13-inch pan ensures even baking for your brownies.

Ingredients

These banana bread brownies with brown butter frosting are so addictive! Learn the easy recipe, and prepare to be hooked.

For the Brownies

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 3-4 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

For the Frosting

• 1/4 cup butter
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

How to Make Banana Bread Brownies

Follow these steps to create your delicious banana bread brownies topped with creamy brown butter frosting.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs with an electric mixer until creamy. Mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Carefully mix using a rubber spatula until everything is well combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Spread the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once done, allow them to cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes before adding frosting.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While your brownies cool, prepare the frosting. In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter until it boils and turns brown while stirring frequently. Once browned, remove from heat and transfer it into a mixing bowl.

Step 6: Frost Your Brownies

To the bowl of browned butter, add half of the powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk. Whisk until smooth. If needed, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Spread this luscious frosting over your warm banana bread brownies before serving!

Enjoy your freshly made banana bread brownies!

How to Serve Banana Bread Brownies

Banana Bread Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with these fun suggestions. Pair them with various accompaniments to enhance their flavors.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the moist brownies perfectly.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this combo adds rich flavor and indulgence.

With Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Strawberries: The tartness of strawberries balances the sweetness of the brownies.
• Ripe Bananas: Reinforce the banana flavor by serving with fresh banana slices.

With Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy touch to each bite.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, use coconut whipped cream for a tropical twist.

With Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds provide a delightful contrast to the soft brownies.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Brownies

To achieve the best Banana Bread Brownies, follow these essential tips. They will help you create moist, flavorful treats every time.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be.
• Brown Your Butter: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances your frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients until just combined to keep your brownies soft and tender.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly for consistent baking results.
• Let Them Cool Before Frosting: Allowing the brownies to cool slightly prevents the frosting from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Brownies

Pairing side dishes with Banana Bread Brownies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that work wonderfully together.

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of blueberries and raspberries adds freshness and a pop of color.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a crunchy and creamy contrast.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of assorted fruits brightens up the dessert table.
4. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup offers a cozy pairing that balances sweetness with bitterness.
5. Cheese Plate: Soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie can complement the brownie flavors beautifully.
6. Nut Butter Dip: Serve with almond or peanut butter for an extra layer of richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana bread brownies can be fun, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or too little sugar can drastically change the texture and flavor of your brownies.
• Ignoring ripeness of bananas: Using under-ripe bananas will not provide the same sweetness and moisture. Make sure your bananas are well-ripened for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the brownies to cool before frosting is crucial. Frosting warm brownies can lead to a melted mess instead of a beautiful finish.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create dense brownies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light texture.
• Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking times can be misleading. Always check with a toothpick for doneness; it should come out with a few crumbs attached, not wet batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store banana bread brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to 5 days when properly stored.

Freezing Banana Bread Brownies

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bread Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making banana bread brownies.

What makes banana bread brownies different from regular brownies?

Banana bread brownies combine the flavors of classic banana bread with the richness of brownies, resulting in a moist, flavorful dessert that’s unique and delicious.

Can I substitute other nuts in banana bread brownies?

Absolutely! You can use pecans, almonds, or even omit nuts altogether if you prefer. Each will give a different texture and flavor.

How do I know when my banana bread brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Baking times may vary based on your oven.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and sour cream with plant-based yogurt. You’ll still achieve delicious results!

Final Thoughts

These banana bread brownies with brown butter frosting are incredibly appealing due to their rich flavor and moist texture. They are versatile enough for any occasion—be it a family dessert night or a potluck treat. Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or experimenting with different nuts!