Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

The Best Banana Bread Brownies Recipe: Irresistibly Fudgy Treats

Banana bread brownies merge two beloved desserts into an irresistible culinary creation.

Rich, decadent memories of classic comfort foods dance within these delectable squares.

Moist banana-infused layers blend seamlessly with deep chocolate undertones, promising an extraordinary taste experience.

Warm spices and subtle nutty hints weave through each tender bite, revolutionizeing ordinary ingredients into something magical.

Unexpected textures and complex flavor profiles make these treats stand out from standard dessert selections.

Soft, dense, and incredibly satisfying, these brownies elevate home baking to an art form.

Your taste buds will thank you for indulging in this delightful fusion.

What to Sip or Serve with This Sweet Treat

  • Brew the Perfect Coffee Companion: Pair these banana bread brownies with a rich, medium-roast Colombian coffee that complements the sweet, nutty flavors and cuts through the richness of the dessert.
  • Scoop Up a Creamy Sidekick: Add a small dollop of vanilla bean ice cream beside the brownie to create a luxurious temperature contrast and enhance the dessert's warm, comforting notes.
  • Create a Nutty Beverage Match: Serve alongside an almond milk latte or hazelnut-infused hot chocolate to echo the walnut undertones and provide a smooth, complementary drinking experience.
  • Elevate with Dessert Wine: Pair with a sweet late-harvest Riesling or a port wine, which will beautifully highlight the banana's natural sweetness and the brownie's caramelized depth.

Remix Ideas for More Banana-Choco Bliss

Remix Ideas for More Banana-Choco Bliss
  • Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Brownies: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the batter for an extra indulgent treat that adds rich, melty goodness to the classic banana bread flavor.
  • Nutty Caramel Banana Brownies: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the frosted brownies and sprinkle with toasted pecans for a luxurious, crunchy upgrade that elevates the original recipe.
  • Cream Cheese Swirl Banana Brownies: Create a tangy cream cheese mixture and swirl it through the batter before baking, adding a creamy, slightly tart element that complements the sweet banana base.
  • Coconut Banana Bread Brownies: Mix shredded coconut into the batter and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the frosting for a tropical-inspired version that brings a subtle crunch and exotic flavor.

Banana Bread Meets Brownie—Here’s Why You’ll Crave It

Banana Bread Meets Brownie—Here’s Why You’ll Crave It
  • Indulge in Comfort Fusion: These brownies brilliantly merge classic banana bread's warmth with decadent brownie richness, creating a nostalgic yet innovative dessert that satisfies sweet cravings.
  • Master Easy-Peasy Baking: Requiring simple ingredients and basic mixing techniques, this recipe welcomes bakers of all skill levels, making delicious homemade treats accessible and stress-free.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Texture Sensation: Soft, moist banana-infused base topped with silky vanilla frosting delivers a perfect balance between tender crumb and creamy smoothness that melts in your mouth.
  • Quick Weeknight Dessert Magic: From start to finish, these brownies take just 40 minutes to prepare, making them an ideal solution for spontaneous dessert cravings or unexpected guest surprises.

The Combo of Ingredients That Changes Everything

Main Ingredients:

Banana Group:
  • Ripe Bananas: Soft, sweet bananas provide moisture and natural sweetness to the brownies.
  • Mashed Bananas: Adds rich banana flavor and helps create a tender texture.
Flour Group:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Standard baking flour that provides structure to the brownies.
  • Baking Soda: Essential leavening agent that helps brownies rise and become light.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Dairy and Fat Group:
  • Butter: Softened butter adds rich flavor and creates a smooth batter.
  • Sour Cream: Contributes moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Eggs: Binding agent that provides structure and richness.
Sweeteners and Flavoring:
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with brownie texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, deep flavor to both batter and frosting.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet frosting with perfect consistency.
  • Milk: Helps adjust frosting thickness and creates creamy texture.
Nuts and Toppings:
  • Walnuts: Adds crunch and nutty flavor to the brownie batter.

How to Bake That Soft-Fudgy Hybrid Just Right

How to Bake That Soft-Fudgy Hybrid Just Right

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Create the Wet Mixture

In a large bowl, blend:
  • Sugar
  • Sour cream
  • Softened butter
  • Eggs
Beat until creamy. Mix in:
  • Mashed bananas
  • Vanilla extract

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture.

Step 4: Add Nutty Crunch

Gently fold chopped walnuts into the batter, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour batter into prepared pan. Spread evenly. Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Test with a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 6: Create Decadent Frosting

Melt butter over medium heat, stirring continuously until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 7: Whip Up the Frosting

Remove from heat. Whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Milk

Adjust milk for desired frosting consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Brownies

Pour frosting over warm brownies. Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 9: Cool and Set

Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan, letting frosting set.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares. Enjoy as a delightful dessert or satisfying snack!

Secrets to the Perfect Swirl and Chew

Secrets to the Perfect Swirl and Chew
  • Choose Ripe Bananas: Select overripe, soft bananas with dark brown or black spots for maximum sweetness and deeper banana flavor.
  • Avoid Overmixing Batter: Stir dry and wet ingredients just until combined to prevent tough, dense brownies with a rubbery texture.
  • Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature, preventing undercooked or burnt edges.
  • Brown Butter Carefully: Watch butter closely while browning to achieve a rich, nutty flavor without burning, stirring continuously for even color.
  • Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow brownies to cool entirely to room temperature so frosting sets properly and doesn't slide off the surface.

Saving Leftovers Without Losing the Ooey-Gooey

Saving Leftovers Without Losing the Ooey-Gooey
  • Refrigerate Carefully: Store banana bread brownies in an airtight container with a tight-sealing lid to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Place parchment paper between layers to keep frosting from sticking together, keeping each piece perfectly intact. Refrigerated brownies will stay fresh for up to 5 days when properly sealed.
  • Freeze for Later: Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them inside a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing their delicious texture or flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying, ensuring they remain moist and delectable.
  • Reheating Method: Warm refrigerated or thawed brownies quickly by microwaving for 10-15 seconds on medium power.
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Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

Banana Bread Brownies Recipe


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4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Rich banana bread brownies blend creamy banana flavors with indulgent chocolate notes, creating a moist dessert that melts in your mouth. Comfort and sweetness merge in this irresistible treat you’ll savor down to the last delicious crumb.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe bananas (mashed)
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (113 grams) softened butter
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (60 grams) chopped walnuts

Frosting Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (113 grams) browned butter
  • 4 cups (480 grams) confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) milk (adjust for consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 15×10-inch (38×25-centimeter) jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing and dusting with flour.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together granulated sugar, sour cream, softened unsalted butter, and eggs until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
  3. Incorporate mashed ripe bananas and pure vanilla extract into the creamy mixture, blending thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until completely combined and free of lumps.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth, consistent batter without overmixing.
  6. Carefully fold chopped walnuts into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  7. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, creating a uniform layer.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. While the brownies bake, prepare the frosting by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until it turns a rich, golden brown color with a nutty aroma.
  10. Remove the browned butter from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  11. Once the brownies are removed from the oven, allow them to cool slightly but still remain warm, then generously pour the frosting over the top.
  12. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly, ensuring complete coverage of the brownie surface.
  13. Let the frosted brownies cool completely in the pan, allowing the icing to set and firm up.
  14. Cut the cooled brownies into square pieces of desired size and serve as a delightful dessert or afternoon treat.

Notes

  • Capture the essence of comfort with these banana-infused brownies that blend classic dessert techniques into one irresistible treat.
  • Walnuts add unexpected crunch and nutty depth, transforming ordinary brownies into a memorable homemade experience.
  • Browning butter beforehand releases rich, caramel-like undertones that elevate the entire dessert’s flavor profile dramatically.
  • Creamy frosting transforms these brownies from simple baked good to elegant sweet indulgence, creating a professional bakery-style finish.
  • Cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges and prevent frosting from sliding off, maintaining perfect presentation and texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 365 kcal
  • Sugar: 36 g
  • Sodium: 151 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 53 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 31 mg
Julian Park

Julian Park

Co-Founder, Cuisine Researcher & Food Culture Writer

Expertise

  • Global Food Cultures & Culinary History
  • Regional Flavor Profiles & Cooking Techniques
  • Food Anthropology & Cultural Identity
  • Culinary Research & Narrative Writing
  • Street Food Traditions & Heritage Dishes

Education

The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), Los Angeles, CA

  • Degree: Certificate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Professional culinary techniques, global cuisine fundamentals, and real-world training in restaurant-style cooking and food presentation.

Julian Park is a natural storyteller at The Dream Café who blends hands-on culinary experience with a passion for exploring global food traditions. A graduate of The Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles, Julian combines professional technique with a love for cultural discovery, diving into how dishes reflect heritage, migration, and identity. 

His work spans everything from in-depth cuisine guides to reflections on everyday meals around the world. With a curious palate and a journal always close by, Julian helps readers connect with food in a way that feels so insightful and personal.

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