Why You’ll Love Irresistible Banana Bread Brownies Recipe
These Banana Bread Brownies are not your average dessert. They’re:
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Super moist and tender thanks to ripe bananas and sour cream
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Rich and indulgent with a creamy brown butter frosting
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Easy to make in one pan—perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weekday baking
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Customizable with optional nuts or spices
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A fun twist on two classic favorites
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownies:
2 eggs
3 bananas, mashed
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup sour cream
½ cup butter, softened
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
½ cup butter, melted
3 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
⅓ cup milk
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and stir in the cinnamon.
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In a large bowl, beat the sugar, softened butter, sour cream, and eggs until creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract and the mashed banana mixture.
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In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three batches, stirring gently until combined.
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Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
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Spread the batter evenly in the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the brownies cool slightly while preparing the frosting.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until it turns golden brown.
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Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar gradually, followed by the vanilla extract and milk. Stir until smooth and thick.
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Pour the warm frosting over the warm brownies and spread evenly.
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Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
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Add chocolate chips: For a more brownie-like flavor, mix in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
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Use Greek yogurt: Swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
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Add spice: Boost the flavor with a dash of nutmeg or allspice.
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Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
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Nut-free version: Omit the walnuts if you’re avoiding nuts or serving a crowd.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: These brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the texture and enhance the flavor.
FAQs
How ripe should bananas be for this recipe?
The riper the better—overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect for moisture and flavor.
Can I make this recipe without the frosting?
Yes, the brownies are still delicious without the frosting, though the brown butter topping adds richness.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor, especially for the frosting, but margarine can work in a pinch.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk are good substitutes for sour cream in this recipe.
Do I need to refrigerate the brownies after frosting?
Not necessary if consumed within a day or two, but refrigerate for longer freshness.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done.
Can I make these brownies in advance?
Yes, they can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored covered in the fridge or at room temperature.
Are these more like banana bread or brownies?
They have the texture of banana bread with a slightly denser, more brownie-like richness—hence the name.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing and using.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need two pans or a larger baking dish, and the baking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
Conclusion
Irresistible Banana Bread Brownies are the ultimate comfort dessert. They’re soft, sweet, and indulgent—perfect for family gatherings, afternoon snacks, or anytime you crave something cozy and satisfying. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.
