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Banana Bread Brownies Recipe

These Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful way to make use of ripe bananas. Moist, thick, and topped with a decadent brown butter frosting, they're the perfect sweet treat to enjoy as a dessert or snack.
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Bars:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 3-4 ripe bananas mashed
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze:

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

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Incorporate the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and eggs, mixing well. Fold in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing just until the dry ingredients are moistened. If desired, stir in chopped walnuts.
  • Evenly spread the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 23-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. While the bars bake, prepare the frosting.
  • For the brown butter frosting, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Let it simmer until it reaches a delicate brown color and a nutty fragrance. Remove from the heat immediately.
  • Whisk the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk into the browned butter until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk if needed. Pour the warm frosting over the warm bars and spread it gently using the back of a spoon.

Notes

Recipe Variations:
  • Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.
  • Add chocolate chips: Mix mini milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter.
  • Change the frosting: Substitute the brown butter frosting with a cream cheese frosting for a different flavor.
  • Healthier option: Reduce the sugar by half and use 3-4 tablespoons of butter for the frosting.
Make Ahead Instructions: Prepare and frost the brownies 1-2 days in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions: Allow the brownies to cool completely. Freeze frosted or unfrosted in the pan, tightly covered with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw thoroughly before serving.