Banana Bread Brownies with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe
These Banana Bread Brownies combine the moistness of banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. Enhanced by a delicious brown butter frosting, this 9x13 inch pan dessert is perfect for sharing with family and friends. The recipe uses ripe bananas, Greek yogurt for moisture, and a simple baking process that yields 16 servings of sweet, comforting bars.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Batter:
- 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
Frosting:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for the batter.
- Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), then add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
- Combine dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients and mix just until the batter is evenly moistened. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
- Bake the bars: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 23 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. While the brownies bake, prepare the frosting.
- Brown the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and allow it to simmer until it turns a delicate brown color with a nutty aroma. Be vigilant to prevent burning. Remove from heat immediately once browned.
- Prepare the frosting: Whisk the browned butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or milk to thin as needed.
- Frost the brownies: Pour the warm frosting evenly over the warm banana bread brownies. Use the back of a spoon to spread the frosting gently before letting the bars cool and set.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- You can substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt if preferred.
- Watch the butter carefully while browning to avoid burning and bitterness.
- The frosting can be adjusted for thickness according to your preference by varying powdered sugar or milk.
- Allow the bars to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Optional: Add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.
