Description: Indulge in the delightful fusion of banana bread and rich, fudgy brownies with this irresistible Banana Bread Brownies recipe. These moist, flavorful brownies combine the comforting taste of ripe bananas with the decadent satisfaction of chocolatey goodness, all topped with a luscious brown butter frosting. Perfect for using up those overripe bananas, these brownies are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a generous batch, making it ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Get ready to experience the best of both worlds with every bite!
Ingredients:
Brownies:
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional, but highly recommended)
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk (more or less, as needed)
Preparation:
step 1 Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13 x 9 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, for easy removal of the brownies after baking. This also helps in achieving neat, clean cuts.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, sour cream, softened butter, and eggs. Use an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) for best results, beating until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Ensuring these ingredients are thoroughly mixed creates a smooth base for the brownies.
Step 3: Blend in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. Mash the bananas well before adding them to the batter to avoid clumps. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. The bananas add moisture and a natural sweetness to the brownies, complementing the richness of the other ingredients.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for proper leavening and flavor. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix. Stir in the chopped walnuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the brownies.
Step 5: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to ensure the batter reaches all corners of the pan for uniform thickness. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the brownies after 20 minutes.
For Frosting:
Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully when it reaches a medium brown color turn off heat, whisk in powdered sugar at a time, adding milk as it thickens, then add in vanilla. Pour over the warm banana bread brownies immediately, and smooth with a spatula, butter knife, or frosting spatula. Cool completely before cutting
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Banana Bread Brownies recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas, preventing them from going to waste and turning them into a delicious treat. The combination of banana bread and brownie flavors is simply irresistible – you get the comforting taste of banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. The sour cream adds moisture and tenderness, while the walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Topped with a homemade frosting that is both sweet and rich, these brownies are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The recipe is also relatively easy to follow, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced bakers. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a comforting treat for yourself, these Banana Bread Brownies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Cut into squares and arrange on a platter for parties or gatherings.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a decadent touch.
- Serve with fresh berries for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Cut into smaller squares and pack in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
- Wrap individually and give as homemade gifts to friends and family.
- Serve as part of a dessert bar with other sweet treats for a variety of options.
Tips:
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your brownies will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps the ingredients blend together more smoothly.
- Line Your Pan: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes it easy to remove the brownies after baking and prevents them from sticking to the pan.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies to check for doneness. It should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
- Store Properly: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey treat, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter.
- Experiment with Nuts: Try using different types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds, instead of walnuts.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular all-purpose flour to make these brownies gluten-free.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values, may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size)
Calories: 350-400 per serving
Protein: 4-5 grams per serving
Sodium: 200-250 mg per serving
Conclusion:
These Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful twist on two classic desserts, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their baking game. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or simply craving a delicious treat, these brownies are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors and the rich, fudgy goodness of these exceptional Banana Bread Brownies!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding them to the batter. Thawed bananas tend to be even softer and sweeter, which can enhance the flavor of the brownies.
Q2: Can I make this recipe without walnuts?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, you can easily omit them. The brownies will still be delicious without the added crunch. You can also substitute with other nuts like pecans or almonds, or add chocolate chips for a different texture and flavor.
Q3: How do I prevent the brownies from being too dry?
A: To prevent dry brownies, make sure you don’t overbake them. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out with moist crumbs attached. Also, ensure you’re using the correct amount of sour cream and ripe bananas, as these ingredients contribute to the moisture content.
Q4: Can I use a different type of pan?
A: While a 13×9 inch pan is recommended for this recipe, you can use a different size pan if needed. Keep in mind that using a smaller pan will result in thicker brownies, which may require a longer baking time. Adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness frequently.
Q5: How long can I store these brownies, and what’s the best way to keep them fresh?
A: These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them fresh, make sure they are completely cooled before storing them. If storing in the refrigerator, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
