If you’re torn between banana bread and brownies, this decadent recipe combines the best of both worlds. These Banana Bread Brownies are ultra-moist, rich, and packed with sweet banana flavor, topped with a luscious browned butter frosting that takes them to the next level. The combination of the soft, cake-like texture of banana bread and the sweetness of brownies makes these treats irresistible, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread Brownies:
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
For the Browned Butter Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
Prepare the Banana Bread Brownies:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter. Set aside. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, and mix again until smooth. - Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until fully combined, being careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts (if using). - Bake:
Pour the banana batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool slightly on a wire rack.
Prepare the Browned Butter Frosting:
- Brown the Butter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns a deep golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Be sure not to let it burn. - Make the Frosting:
Remove the browned butter from heat. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, stirring until smooth after each addition. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and whisk until the frosting is smooth and creamy. - Frost the Brownies:
While the brownies are still warm but not hot, pour the browned butter frosting over the top and spread evenly using a spatula. Allow the frosting to set as the brownies cool completely.
Serve:
Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and enjoy! These treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but they likely won’t last that long!
Tips:
- Ripeness of Bananas:
For maximum flavor, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots on the skin. - Brown Butter Perfection:
When browning butter, keep a close eye on it as it can burn quickly. Once it turns amber and smells nutty, it’s ready. - Customize:
You can easily swap out the walnuts for other nuts, like pecans, or even mix in chocolate chips for an extra indulgent touch.
These Banana Bread Brownies with their browned butter frosting are the perfect way to satisfy your banana bread cravings with a dessert-like twist!
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