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Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe

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These Banana Bread Brownies combine the best of banana bread and brownies into one thick, moist, and delicious treat. Perfect for using up ripe bananas, they are topped with a luscious brown butter frosting that adds a rich, nutty flavor, making them an irresistible dessert or snack.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Bars:

  • 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or 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
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the bars don’t stick.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until smooth. Beat in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, mashed ripe bananas, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir just until the batter is moistened; avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. If desired, fold in chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
  4. Bake the Bars: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 23-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  5. Prepare Brown Butter Frosting: While the bars bake, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it turns a delicate brown color with a nutty aroma, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from heat immediately.
  6. Mix Frosting: Whisk the browned butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin as needed.
  7. Frost the Bars: Once the bars are out of the oven and still warm, pour the brown butter frosting over them. Gently spread the frosting evenly using the back of a spoon. Allow to cool slightly before serving for the best texture.

Notes

  • Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the butter and yogurt with vegan alternatives.
  • The walnuts are optional but add a great crunch to the texture.
  • Make sure to watch the butter carefully while browning to avoid burning it, as this will make the frosting bitter.
  • The frosting sets better if poured warm over warm bars; let cool to room temperature before cutting.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian